The Belfast Maritime Festival will return on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 September, taking place from 11am to 6pm each day along the Maritime Mile, from Donegall Quay to HMS Caroline.

Organised by Belfast City Council in partnership with the Maritime Belfast Trust, the festival is supported by Belfast Harbour, Titanic Quarter Ltd, Titanic Belfast, the Department for Communities, Tourism NI and the Odyssey Trust.

Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Tracy Kelly, said: "Belfast Maritime Festival is undoubtedly one of the city's most popular family-friendly events, attracting residents from right across the city and drawing visitors from far and wide to enjoy entertainment inspired by our proud maritime heritage and traditions.

"Make sure to put Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 September in your diary and get on board for a weekend of free fun!"

A range of docked ships will be open to the public at Queen's Quay and Belfast Harbour Marina, including Andalucía, a replica Spanish galleon. Visitors will be able to explore the vessels and speak with crew members.

Activities for children will be available at Queen's Quay, including arts and crafts, circus acts, dance sessions and themed play. Additional family-friendly rides will be located at the Island Adventure Park near the Slipways.

Live performances from local and international artists will take place on the Maritime Mile Music Stage, while circus performers will feature at Fools by the Sea at The Arc. Hamilton Dock Maritime Village will feature interactive exhibits, boat building displays and demonstrations of emerging maritime technologies. Science Street will also return, offering hands-on learning on subjects such as marine biology, biodiversity and climate change.

Food and drink will be available at the Slipways Street Food Market, while the Artisan Producers' Market, supported by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, will feature goods from regional producers.

On Saturday evening, an outdoor concert on the Slipways will feature Hothouse Flowers, joined by special guests Ríoghnach Connolly and Honeyfeet. Tickets are priced at £20 and available via visitbelfast.com.

Visitors looking for a quieter experience can explore Drift, a floating installation, or take part in inclusive and accessible programming under 'City Sensations' at City Quays Gardens.

Kerrie Sweeney MBE, Maritime Belfast Trust said: "The Belfast Maritime Festival is a fantastic example of what can be achieved through true collaboration.

"Together, we're animating the Maritime Mile, telling our maritime stories, and strengthening Belfast's reputation as a vibrant, inclusive and connected waterfront city for everyone."

Festival organisers encourage visitors to walk, cycle, use the Glider from the city centre to Titanic Quarter, or take the train to Titanic Quarter Halt. Bicycle parking will be available outside Titanic Belfast and at Belfast Bike docks near the SSE Arena and SS Nomadic.

For more event information, visit belfastcity.gov.uk/maritime.