The Northern Ireland at the Smithsonian program takes place at a seminal moment in Northern Irish history, following a ten-year period of relative peace and stability and the restoration of Northern Ireland's political institutions. We are honored to have more than 160 participants from throughout Northern Ireland--the region's finest performers, artists, craftspeople, cooks, athletic coaches, and occupational experts--join us on the National Mall to explain, demonstrate, and celebrate contemporary life in their beautiful, dynamic homeland.

This Festival program may come as a surprise to some of our visitors. Like so much else about contemporary Northern Ireland, day-to-day reality transcends assumptions and challenges stereotypes. Northern Ireland is changing rapidly: today, it is a sophisticated, forward-looking society with a booming post-industrial economy and a renewed sense of confidence in the future. Traditional culture, which in the past sometimes divided communities, now contributes to a shared future and fosters inter-community relationships.