America 250

Mid & East Antrim has a rich and deeply rooted connection with the United States - a story woven through the people, places and milestones that link our corner of Northern Ireland to the shaping of America itself. As we approach America 250, a nationwide celebration marking 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence, our borough is proud to honour the shared heritage that binds our histories together.

From the thatched childhood home of President Chester Alan Arthur at President Arthur Homestead in Cullybackey, to the Andrew Jackson Cottage and US Rangers Museum in Carrickfergus - commemorating both the 7th U.S. President’s ancestral story and the founding of the elite US Rangers during World War II - Mid & East Antrim is home to some of the most significant American heritage sites on this side of the Atlantic.

To mark this historic anniversary, we’re bringing these stories to life with a packed programme of America 250 events happening throughout the year. Expect heritage celebrations, living history, talks, performances, family activities and special commemorations inspired by our transatlantic connections.

Join us as we celebrate the people, places and events that helped shape America - and discover the lasting ties that continue to connect Mid & East Antrim with the USA today.

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America 250: Arthur Dobbs (1689 - 1765), Carrickfergus-born explorer, colonial governor, and early botanist

Carrickfergus

Address

Andrew Jackson Cottage and US Rangers Museum, 2 Boneybefore, Carrickfergus, County Antrim, BT38 7EQ

Telephone
028 93358241

Carrickfergusmuseums@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Exhibition

An exhibition on Arthur Dobbs (1689 - 1765)

Dates

From:

6 June 2026to5 Sept 2026Various Opening Times

Price
Free

More Info
Arthur Dobbs - 'Curious in Everything'

Carrickfergus

Address

Carrickfergus Town Hall, 11 Antrim Street, Carrickfergus, County Antrim, BT38 7DG

Telephone
028 93358241

Carrickfergusmuseums@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Price
Price £8.00 Per Ticket

Type

Type:

Talks/Lectures

Arthur Dobbs Seminar

Dates

From:
22 Aug 2026Open 11:00 - 14:30

Price
Price £8.00 Per Ticket

More Info
Historical Talk - From Carrickfergus to Cisterna - the journey of the 1st Rangers Battalion

Carrickfergus

Address

Andrew Jackson Cottage and US Rangers Museum, 2 Boneybefore, Carrickfergus, County Antrim, BT38 7EQ

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9335 8262

visitorinfo@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Type

Type:

Talks/Lectures

Historical Talk at Andrew Jackson Cottage & US Rangers Museum as part of USA 250 NI celebrations

Dates

From:
9 July 2026Open 19:00 - 21:00

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Old Town to New World

Larne

Address

2 Victoria Road, Larne, Larne, County Antrim, BT40 1RN

Telephone
02828262443

marian.kelso@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Type

Type:

Exhibition

A small display featuring artefacts that reflect Larne's links to America.

Dates

From:

1 June 2026to24 July 2026Various Opening Times

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American Flag Lollipop Making

Carrickfergus

Address

Andrew Jackson Cottage and US Rangers Museum, 2 Boneybefore, Carrickfergus, County Antrim, BT38 7EQ

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9335 8262

visitorinfo@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Type

Type:

Workshop

Free children's craft workshop as part of USA 250 NI celebrations at Andrew Jackson Cottage & US Rangers Museum

Dates

From:
4 July 2026Open 12:00 - 13:00
From:
4 July 2026Open 13:00 - 14:00
From:
4 July 2026Open 14:00 - 15:00

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Ballymena and the United States

Cullybackey

Address

President Arthur Homestead, 21A Dreen Road, Cullybackey, County Antrim, BT42 1FX

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9335 8262

visitorinfo@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Type

Type:

Talks/Lectures

Special historical talk by Dr David Hume and music by Lisa Dawson.

Dates

From:
8 July 2026

More Info