This free public learning event invites adults and lifelong learners to explore the everyday civilian experiences of the Belfast Blitz.

Rather than focusing on military history, the event centres on civilian lives, including women, children and workers, whose stories are often overlooked.

Using short extracts from oral histories, photographs and a small number of wartime objects or replicas as conversation prompts, participants will learn through guided listening, reflection and facilitated discussion in a relaxed and supportive environment. Delivered during the 85th anniversary year of the Belfast Blitz, the event offers an opportunity to reflect on how these experiences have been remembered, shared and learned across generations. No prior knowledge is required and participants may choose to listen without contributing verbally.

By focusing on personal memory and lived experience, the event encourages confidence, curiosity and a positive relationship with learning, particularly among those who may not see themselves as learners or who have not engaged with history since leaving school. The event will also raise awareness of informal learning opportunities available through museums and heritage organisations in Belfast, supporting continued engagement with learning beyond the festival.

This event is supported by Belfast Learning Festival 2026, and was originally scheduled to take place in June 2026. It will now take place on Thursday 20 August 2026, starting at 6:30pm, at the Northern Ireland War Memorial, 21 Talbot Street, Belfast, BT1 2LD.

* Register for a FREE ticket via Eventbrite: Hidden Belfast: Civilian Voices from the Blitz *