Belfast XR Festival 2025

Belfast XR Festival is back, bringing together leading creators working with cutting-edge immersive technologies, from virtual and augmented reality to spatial audio and screen-based installations. The festival aims to make these innovations accessible to local communities while showcasing the latest developments in storytelling and creative technology.

For musicians and artists based in NI, XR is opening new possibilities in music production, performance and audience engagement. Whether you’re experienced in immersive technology or completely new to it, the festival offers an opportunity to explore its impact on the creative industries.

One of this year’s highlights is The Art of Noise at Oh Yeah, a full-day event dedicated to music and sound in immersive media. Taking place on Thursday 13 March, it features discussions on the evolution of music technology, immersive audio and new approaches to storytelling. Industry experts, musicians and creators will discuss how innovations in sound are shaping the future of interactive and extended reality experiences.

The day kicks off with a networking breakfast at 9:30 am, followed by a welcome from Belfast XR Festival Director Deepa Mann-Kler. Throughout the day, panel discussions will explore topics such as the Belfast rave scene, immersive content production and the role of technology in promoting diversity within the creative sector. There will also be a live acoustic performance from The Thing Is and a fireside chat with Emmy-nominated producer and director Rosa Costanza.

Another standout event is In Pursuit of Repetitive Beats, running from 14–23 March at Carlisle Memorial Church. This immersive virtual reality experience transports audiences back to 1989, tracing the journey of rave culture pioneers as they navigate pirate radio stations, police crackdowns, and the thrill of illegal warehouse parties. Featuring classic tracks such as Chime by Orbital and Energy Flash by Joey Beltram, this interactive experience offers a unique look at a movement that reshaped music and society.

Belfast XR Festival is open to everyone, regardless of experience with XR technology. Whether you’re curious about its potential for music or want to explore new ways of engaging audiences, this is an opportunity to connect with forward-thinking artists and industry experts.

For full details and tickets, visit Belfast XR Festival.