Scots-Irish Today

04/02/2026

Talented musical duo Colin & Janet performing for Episode 1 of Ulster Unplugged. This is a pure example of the talent we have from Ulster.

25/01/2026

Happy Burns Nicht! ✨

Belfast is a city with many cultural influences, and the Ulster-Scots dimension is a proud part of that. Our history; our oldest buildings; many of our place names; and our daily speech all still display an undeniably Scottish skirl and birl. So, it's not surprising that Robert Burns' poetry has been read, printed, and enjoyed here for centuries.

As people around the world gather to pay tribute to the Scottish poet's life and works, we remember his unique relationship with Belfast – the Ulster-Scots speaking town that was the first place outside Scotland to publish his work.

The following video tells the story of how Burns' friends and family made their home here and how, over 200 years later, his life and legacy continue to be celebrated for auld lang syne: https://youtu.be/_WLKT8x6OFM

[The music featured in the video is "A Man's A Man for A' That" by Stonewall.]

25/01/2026

Sláinte Mhath! 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 Wishing everyone a Happy Burns Night 💙

31/12/2025

As a new year begins, we reflect on the rich heritage, shared history, and enduring culture of Ulster.

From language and tradition to story and song, these connections continue to shape who we are and where we’re going. Thank you to everyone who reads, supports, and contributes to Scots Irish Today — your interest helps keep these stories alive.

Here’s to another year of remembering, learning, and sharing.
Happy New Year — here’s us, wile proud.

25/12/2025

At Christmas, we take time to reflect — on where we come from and the stories that connect us.

Thank you for supporting Scots Irish Today and for helping us celebrate the rich history, culture, and legacy of the Scots-Irish tradition.
Merry Christmas and best wishes for the year ahead 🎄

24/12/2025

15/12/2025

Known as the “Orchard County,” Armagh’s rich soil and heritage in apple growing take centre stage in this episode. Host Eve Blair explores the fascinating journey of Armagh Cider, from the harvest of handpicked apples to the artisanal production of their renowned craft ciders. Through an insightful interview with Philip Troughton, viewers gain a deeper understanding of the traditional techniques and modern innovations that define the company’s exceptional products.

The episode showcases the beauty of Armagh’s sprawling orchards and the intricate processes involved in crafting cider, including apple pressing, fermentation, and bottling. With stunning visuals and heartfelt storytelling, Flavours of Ulster celebrates the legacy of apple growing in Northern Ireland and the dedication of the Troughton family to preserving the authenticity and quality of their craft. Back in the kitchen, chef Callum Irwin makes a delicious meal featuring crispy pork belly cooked slowly in cider with an apple puree.



Watch it here:

Known as the "Orchard County," Armagh’s rich soil and heritage in apple growing take centre stage in this episode. Host Eve Blair explores the fascinating jo...

15/12/2025

Need a Christmas Gift Idea for your loved ones? 🎄

Why not book them tickets to the Belfast International Tattoo 2026! Get ready for another magical year of performances from performers around the globe!

Book your tickets here:
👉https://belfastinternationaltattoo.com/tickets/
👉https://www.ticketmaster.ie/the-belfast-international-tattoo-tickets/artist/5244376
👉https://ssearenabelfast.com/events/the-belfast-international-tattoo-2026

02/12/2025

In case you missed it on TV, here's episode 5 of Ulster Unplugged!

Hosted by Rab Lennox (The Big Rab Show) and Amanda Agnew, the series shines a light on local musicians, real stories, and the heart of our culture — recorded at McConnells Bar Doagh.

This episode features Andy McGregor with his band Kask, bringing traditional Ulster-Scots music to life with a fresh, exciting, and modern energy while staying true to the heritage that shaped it. Their sound is proud, dynamic, and unmistakably Ulster.

If you love authentic local music, the stories behind the songs, and the living traditions of this place, you won’t want to miss it.

Episode five of Ulster Unplugged, a show hosted by Rab Lennox and Amanda Agnew featuring interviews with local musicians with and live performances, recorded...

29/11/2025

What an exceptional day for Ulster heritage and community spirit.
Belfast came alive today as people gathered to celebrate Belfast Tartan Day, a proud moment for all who cherish Ulster-Scots culture, tradition, and identity.

The Belfast International Tattoo joined the dander through the city, adding music, colour, and the unmistakable sound of our shared heritage. From pipers to tartan, from families to long-held traditions, it was a celebration of who we are and the history that shaped us.

Days like this remind us that Ulster-Scots culture isn’t just something found in books or old stories — it’s living, growing, and carried forward by the communities who keep it alive.

A proud day for Ulster, and a reminder of the strength of our roots.
Ulster-Scots Agency



Read more here:

Christmas shoppers stopped what they were doing to take in the tartan-clad parade through the city centre.

29/11/2025