The Foyle Maritime Festival is set to bring a huge boost to the Derry economy with £2million expected to be generated from the annual event.
The festival, which coincides with the return of the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race to the city, has grown into a major attraction which generates millions of pounds for the local economy.
It's understood that around 95% of the city’s hotel beds have already been booked until Saturday night, with over 150,000 people expected to attend this year’s festival which continues until Sunday, July 24.
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The riverfront has once again been transformed into a bustling international marina with maritime markets and a celebration of the very best food and drink the North West has to offer.
With a jam-packed programme, the free-to-attend festival includes live art and animation installations, virtual reality experiences, acrobats, animated performers and an array of water sports such as kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding which gives participants a unique view of the city from the River Foyle
Live music performances are taking place on the Festival Village stage along with riverside family activities including workshops, funfair attractions, the Foyle Bubble Challenge, boat tours and street theatre. In addition, a number of majestic Tall Ships have anchored in the Foyle, with some visiting Northern Ireland for the first time.
This year’s festival reaches its pinnacle on Friday night with a magical evening of music, dance and theatre culminating in the mesmerising Parade of Light on the River Foyle against the backdrop of an awe-inspiring pyrotechnic display.
Festival and Events Manager, Jacqueline Whoriskey said she is delighted to see such strong visitor numbers for the start of the festival.
She said: “There has been real anticipation in the city for this year’s festival and of course the return of the Clipper crews.
“With so much to see and do across all days, we are confident this year’s Foyle Maritime Festival can be our best ever, and it even looks as though the sun will shine for us.
“It is the perfect festival for family fun, and I would encourage everyone to make their way to the city over the next few days, you won’t be disappointed.”
Visit Derry Chief Executive, Odhran Dunne said the festival is an excellent way to attract people to the city, some for the first time.
“Derry is the perfect gateway to the North West with beaches, rugged coastlines and beautiful countryside to discover within the region.
“It is always pleasing when people visit the city for the first time and then discover there is so much more to this part of the world than they thought. It is the perfect reason to keep on returning.”
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