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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Number of results: 10

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Twelve Famous Ulster American's and their Stories - including musical performance by Lisa Dawson

Carrickfergus

Address

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

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9335 8262

visitorinfo@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Type

Type:

Talks/Lectures

Join us for an inspiring evening celebrating the remarkable stories of twelve Ulster-born figures who helped shape American history—brought to life through expert storytelling and live music.

Dates

From:
11 June 2026Open 19:00 - 21:00

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The Larne Ulster-American Heritage Trail Guided Walk and Launch of America 250 StoryMap

Larne

Address

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

Telephone
02828262443

marian.kelso@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Type

Type:

History

A guided walk and introduction to a new online Storymap

Dates

From:
13 June 2026Open 10:00 - 12:00

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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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Mid-Antrim at the Time of the American Revolution Guided Bus Tour

Ballymena

Address

Mid-Antrim Museum and Arts Centre at The Braid, 1-29 Bridge Street, Ballymena, County Antrim, BT43 5EJ

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2563 5029

BraidMuseum@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Price
Price £8.00 Per Ticket

Type

Type:

Tour

Guided minibus tour of local mid-Antrim eighteen century historic sites.

Dates

From:
15 May 2026Open 11:00 - 15:30

Price
Price £8.00 Per Ticket

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MCHENRY: An Ulster American Story

Larne

Address

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

Telephone
02828262443

marian.kelso@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Type

Type:

History

McHenry: An Ulster American Story is an original production which tells the story of the life and times of author Dr. James McHenry, who was born in Larne, prospered in America, and whose last resting place is in the churchyard of St Cedma's Church…

Dates

From:
19 June 2026Open 19:30 - 21:30

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James McHenry (1817-91): Larne's Forgotten Tycoon - A talk by Dr Barry Henderson

Larne

Address

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

Telephone
02828262443

marian.kelso@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Type

Type:

History

Drop into Larne Museum to hear the remarkable story of Larne's forgotten tycoon.

Dates

From:
13 June 2026Open 13:00 - 14:30

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From Carrick to the Carolinas: the story of the Jacksons and the Seventh President

Carrickfergus

Address

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

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9335 8262

visitorinfo@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Type

Type:

Talks/Lectures

Special historical talk to celebrate USA 250 NI.

Dates

From:
14 May 2026Open 19:00 - 21:00

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Ballymena and the United States - including musical performance by Lisa Dawson

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

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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

More Info