What Traditions Define Northern Ireland?

From Soda Bread to Ulster lace: UK launches search for traditions that define Northern Ireland communities

Northern Ireland communities invited to submit beloved traditions - from Ulster Lacemaking to Mumming - for recognition as UK living heritage.

First major step following UK ratification of the 2003 UNESCO Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage.

New inventory will celebrate Northern Ireland cultural traditions and highlight their contribution to communities and the economy.

Communities across Northern Ireland are invited to submit their most treasured traditions to a new inventory of living heritage.

The UK-wide inventory will spark a national conversation about the crafts, customs and celebrations valued by communities, helping to safeguard them for future generations.

Living heritage encompasses practices passed down through generations - from traditional boat-building to Scottish and Irish dancing . It could also include traditions brought to Northern Ireland by immigrant communities, through events and festivals like Mela.

These practices play a vital role in community identity, pride and cohesion, building the foundations for the UK’s growth.

Heritage Minister Baroness Twycross said:

“From Ulster lace-making to traditional boat-building - these traditions form the rich tapestry of Northern Ireland culture and identity.

“These crafts, customs and celebrations are often what makes people feel proud of who they are, where they come from and where they live. They also boost local economies and businesses.

“Whatever living heritage Northern Ireland communities value, we want to hear about it. I encourage people to get together and share their traditions through this national conversation.”

Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Matthew Patrick said:

"Northern Ireland has a wealth of rich contemporary and historical cultural traditions, with its people and crafts making an enormous contribution to the arts on the UK and international stage.

"I would encourage local communities to submit their suggestions to ensure they receive rightful recognition."

Northern Ireland Communities Minister, Gordon Lyons MLA, said:

“I very much welcome the Government’s initiative which offers a real opportunity to respect and protect Northern Ireland’s cultural practices and traditions and to project them on a national and international stage”

The inventory will help to identify the economic value of our traditions, and support efforts to grow this area of national life.

As living heritage should only be recognised by the communities that practice it, these groups must be involved in any submission. Details on how to submit, including support and advice, can be found at www.livingheritage.unesco.org.uk. Submissions will be accepted over the next four months, with the aim of launching the first inventory next summer.

This follows the UK Government ratification of the 2003 UNESCO Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage last year and a public consultation to inform the development of this inventory.

Following this consultation, it was confirmed that submissions will be accepted under seven categories, which are:

- Oral expressions
- Performing Arts
- Social Practices
- Nature, Land and Spirituality
- Crafts
- Sports and Games
- Culinary Practices

Submissions for the inventory must be completed by Friday 27 March 2026.