Not necessarily a bug.

It is the time of year when lots of perfectly sensible people decide that NI is not where they wish to be, and this is the escape route, so the fares are ramped up. Same goes for the ferries. From 1 July - 13 July or thereabouts it still remains a time when "the natives are restless" and the sound of the jungle drums can be heard disturbing the evening calm when the soothing bubbles in the G&T would be preferred by many, including me.

I think school holidays may also be kicking in adding to the joy.

Just my 2d, if you think the "cultural celebrations" are a joy, feel free to forego your G&T and take your goatskin for a walk