Award-winning presenter and musical comedian Emer Maguire is encouraging people across Northern Ireland to take part in Good Relations Week 2026 as its largest-ever programme of events begins on Monday.

More than 350 events across all 11 council areas will offer opportunities to meet people from different backgrounds, explore other cultures and share experiences, with most free to attend.

Organised by the Community Relations Council and supported by The Executive Office, the celebration runs from Monday 12 to Sunday 18 October under the theme ‘Include – Everyone. Everywhere. Every Day.’

Through live music, theatre, film screenings, exhibitions, sport and community gatherings, the week will highlight efforts to strengthen relationships, challenge racism and sectarianism, and help people feel welcome and valued in everyday life.

It also recognises the work undertaken throughout the year by community groups, schools, charities, councils and volunteers to build understanding and trust across the region.

Award-winning BBC presenter and musical comedian Emer Maguire said:

“Everyone deserves to feel welcome and accepted, whatever their race, religion, disability, sexuality or background. We all have a part to play in that through how we treat people and whether we take the time to listen.

“Inclusion matters to me personally. When you’ve felt different or unsure of where you fit, having someone make you feel welcome can mean a great deal. We don’t always know what someone else is experiencing, so asking rather than assuming is a good place to start.

“Good Relations Week gives us opportunities to get to know people beyond our usual circles. Whether you join a conversation, take part in sport, visit an exhibition or attend a community celebration, you can hear a different story and see things from another perspective.

“I’d encourage everyone to look at the programme and give something a go. Choose something you enjoy or try something new. You might meet someone you’d never otherwise have crossed paths with, and that’s how a connection can begin.”

The Good Relations Week 2026 programme of events spans education, culture, sport and community life, with activities at Belfast City Hall, Ulster University, major arts venues and community spaces across Northern Ireland.

The Education Authority’s Schools of Sanctuary programme features an event at Belfast City Hall on Thursday 15 October, placing schools’ work to create welcoming environments within the celebration. Ulster University hosts the Garífuna International Forum 2026 at its Coleraine campus on Friday 16 October, adding an international dimension to the programme.

In Belfast, The Belfast Women’s Assembly hosts a conversation with Linda Ervine at St Comgall’s / Ionad Eileen Howell on Tuesday 13 October. Belfast Exposed presents Truth Be Told: Journalism & Poetry, featuring Belfast Telegraph editor Sam McBride and award-winning poet Angela Graham, at its gallery on Thursday 15 October.

The Ulster Museum offers a free curator-led tour of Troubles and Beyond in Belfast on Friday 16 October, while Cinemagic’s International Shorts Programme runs at Queen’s Film Theatre on Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 October.

In Derry/Londonderry, Londonderry Bands Forum’s Beyond the Uniform photographic exhibition runs at New Gate Arts and Culture Centre from Monday 12 to Wednesday 14 October, exploring the people behind band uniforms and the role music and belonging play in their communities.

Fermanagh and Omagh District Council presents Unfinished Broadside at the Ardhowen Theatre, Enniskillen, on Tuesday 13 October, celebrating Ulster-Scots heritage through drama, music, song and dance. The same day, Migrant Centre NI’s Sing for Peace brings a multicultural concert to Lurgan Library.

On Saturday 17 October, Ark Housing’s GRANDfest takes place at Queen’s Hall, Newtownards, while Omagh RDA hosts its inclusive dressage competition at its Deverney Road centre.

Also that day, First Steps Women’s Centre presents Celebrating Cultures and Connecting People at the Hill of The O’Neill, Dungannon, with free music, dance and traditional food from communities across Mid Ulster.

Martin McDonald MBE, Chair of the Community Relations Council, said:

“More than 350 events across all 11 council areas make this our largest Good Relations Week programme to date. That reflects the care, energy and commitment of people across the region who are working to bring communities together.

“I want to thank every community group, school, charity, business, council and organisation taking part, and every member of staff and volunteer behind them. Their commitment extends far beyond this week. Throughout the year, they bring people together, challenge prejudice and build trust, often through patient work that receives little recognition.

“Discrimination and exclusion continue to affect people because of their race, religion, disability, sexuality or background. Good Relations Week recognises those working to overcome these barriers and invites all of us to contribute. By taking part, listening and being willing to question our assumptions, we can help build communities where everyone feels respected and able to belong.”

Jacqueline Irwin, Chief Executive of the Community Relations Council, said:

“Our theme, ‘Include – Everyone. Everywhere. Every Day.’, asks us to consider the barriers people face because of their identity, background or circumstances, and what we can do together to address them. The goal is to help everyone feel respected, their voices heard and all able to participate fully in their community.

“Good Relations Week celebrates the groups, organisations and individuals working throughout the year to make that possible. The programme reflects their commitment, creating opportunities to explore difficult issues, discover different cultures and meet through shared interests. These experiences can help people move beyond assumptions and understand one another better.

“My thanks go to every organisation taking part. I would encourage everyone to explore the programme, choose an event and get involved.”

Good Relations Week 2026 is supported by The Executive Office and contributes to the delivery of the Together: Building a United Community Strategy.