National anthem of Northern Ireland facts for kids

Northern Ireland is a part of the United Kingdom. It doesn't have its own official national song, like many countries do. Instead, different songs are used to represent Northern Ireland, especially during sports events. These songs depend on the sport or the team playing.

Songs Representing Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland uses a few different pieces of music to represent itself. This often happens when its sports teams compete internationally.

Music for Sporting Events

When Northern Ireland's athletes compete, they use specific songs. These songs help show their identity on the world stage.

Londonderry Air and Danny Boy

At the Commonwealth Games, the song "Londonderry Air" is played for Northern Ireland. This beautiful tune is very old. A popular set of words, called "Danny Boy", is often sung to this tune.

God Save the King

For association football (soccer) matches, "God Save the King" is used. This is the national song for the entire United Kingdom. It is also the royal song for the King.

Songs for All-Island Teams

Some sports teams represent the whole island of Ireland, not just Northern Ireland or the Republic of Ireland. These teams use a special song called "Ireland's Call".

Ireland's Call

"Ireland's Call" is a song created for teams that include players from both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. You will hear it played for the Ireland rugby union team, Ireland rugby league team, Ireland cricket team, and Ireland field hockey teams.

Amhrán na bhFiann (The Soldier's Song)

"Amhrán na bhFiann" means "The Soldier's Song". This is the national song of the Republic of Ireland. Some groups that work across the whole island of Ireland also use this song. An example is the Gaelic Athletic Association, which promotes traditional Irish sports.