Summer in Northern Ireland is synonymous with vibrant outdoor festivals, from local food fairs in to large-scale music events across the country. However, behind the scenes of every successful event is a complex web of licensing laws.
As of January 2026, new regulations and codes of practice have come into effect that change how alcohol is sold and how entertainment is managed. Whether you are an organiser planning an event or an attendee curious about the rules, here is the essential guide to licensing laws this summer.
1. The New “Liquor Licensing Code of Practice”
Starting in January 2026, a new Liquor Licensing Code of Practice became a mandatory consideration for the courts in Northern Ireland.
For organisers applying for a licence to sell alcohol at a festival, it is no longer enough to simply fill out the paperwork. The court must now be satisfied that the applicant understands their responsibilities under this new code. This includes demonstrating a commitment to “responsible retailing,” such as strict age-verification procedures and ensuring that staff are adequately trained in managing intoxicated patrons.
2. Occasional Licences for Special Events
Most festivals take place in parks, fields, or temporary venues that do not have a permanent liquor licence. In these cases, organisers must apply for an Occasional Licence.
- Who can apply? Only those who already hold a permanent “on-licence” (such as a pub or restaurant owner) can apply for an Occasional Licence.
- Duration: These licences are granted for “special events” and can cover a period of up to six consecutive days.
- Conditions: The court can impose specific conditions, such as the use of plastic or compostable cups instead of glass, and strict “stop-tap” times that may differ from standard pub hours.
3. Entertainment Licences: More Than Just Music
While the sale of alcohol falls under liquor licensing, the festival itself usually requires an Entertainment Licence from the local council (such as Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council or Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council).
In Northern Ireland, you generally need an outdoor entertainment licence for:
- Live music or DJ performances.
- Theatrical plays or circus acts.
- Film screenings.
- Large-scale dancing or sporting contests.
Council officials often carry out inspections during festivals to ensure that noise levels are managed and that the maximum capacity set in the licence is not exceeded. Overcrowding is a serious breach of licensing law and can lead to the immediate closure of an event.
4. Minimum Unit Pricing and “The Off-Trade”
There has been much discussion in the Northern Ireland Assembly regarding Minimum Unit Pricing (MUP) for alcohol. As of April 2026, while the policy remains a major point of debate, it primarily targets “off-trade” sales (supermarkets and off-licences).
For festival-goers, this means that while prices at a festival bar may not be directly affected by MUP, “bringing your own” (BYO) alcohol—which is often prohibited by festival licensing conditions anyway—is becoming increasingly expensive due to floor-pricing on budget ciders and spirits in shops.
5. “Major Event Orders”
For very large festivals of national or international importance, the Department for Communities can issue a Major Event Order. This is a special legal instrument that allows for extended opening hours and more flexible licensing conditions for a specific period. These are rare and usually reserved for events that bring a significant boost to the local economy.
How McPartland & Sons Can Help
Licensing law in Northern Ireland is highly technical. A mistake in the application process—such as failing to notify the PSNI within the correct timeframe—can result in a licence being refused and a festival being cancelled.
At Harry McPartland & Sons Solicitors, our teams in Lisburn and Lurgan have extensive experience assisting event organisers with:
- Applications for Occasional and Entertainment Licences.
- Advice on compliance with the 2026 Liquor Licensing Code of Practice.
- Representing clients in the County Court and Magistrates’ Court.
If you are planning an event or need advice on a licensing dispute, contact our experienced team today to ensure your summer plans stay on the right side of the law.
Lurgan Office: 11 Market Street | Tel: 028 3832 2452
Lisburn Office: Niagara Buildings, Tonagh Drive | Tel: 028 9267 0325
Email: info@mcpartlands.com
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