Belfast is buzzing with excitement as it prepares to host the Comhaltas Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann next month, bringing over 800,000 visitors to our city! From Sunday 2 to Sunday 9 August, this global celebration of Irish music and culture will not only fill the air with tunes but also tantalise taste buds with Belfast's incredible food and drink scene.
Our vibrant culinary landscape, from artisan producers and market traders to independent cafés and restaurants, is set to offer a warm welcome. Venues city-wide are planning special Fleadh offers, taster menus, and even performance spaces for musicians. It's the perfect opportunity to relax and refuel between competitions, sessions, and the more than 200 events on offer.
A dedicated Food and Drink Village will spring up right beside Belfast Cathedral, providing a fantastic hub for local traders, producers, and growers to showcase their delicious flavours. This family-friendly space will be open from 11am to 6pm on Sunday 2 and Sunday 9 August; 10am to 8pm from Monday 3 to Wednesday 5 August; and will extend its hours until 11pm from Thursday 6 to Saturday 8 August. Expect a diverse menu celebrating our region's unique ingredients, alongside communal seating, covered dining, and live music to soundtrack your snacks.
Normally a weekend treat, St George’s Market will also be open throughout the entire Fleadh week! You can visit on Sunday 2 August from 10am to 3pm, then from 10am to 5pm, Monday 3 to Wednesday 5 August, before extending its bustling hours to 10am to 10pm from Thursday 6 to Sunday 9 August – expected to be the busiest days. Belfast’s oldest market is the ideal spot to catch up with friends, grab a coffee, indulge in a sweet treat, or shop for souvenirs and handcrafted goods, all while enjoying live music and extra traders on Verner Street.
Another official Fleadh location, ICC Belfast/Waterfront Hall, will host its own Craic and Craft Market. Conveniently located near the competition venues, it’s a quick stop for street food, family activities, and more live music.
The city's growth and regeneration teams highlight how the Fleadh is a wonderful chance to celebrate our local culture and the incredible people who make Belfast so vibrant. Behind every local business, there’s a personal story of building, developing, and contributing to the city’s growing reputation as a food and drink destination. Local teams have been working hard to support producers and independent businesses to connect with new audiences and showcase their quality and creativity.
For those wanting to extend their Fleadh experience into the evening, additional late-night bus services have been confirmed, making it easier to enjoy world-class restaurants, neighbourhood cafés, and lively bars.
Further along the Maritime Mile, there's even more to tempt your tastebuds! The Titanic Quarter Night Market will run from 4pm to 10pm on Thursday 6 and Friday 7 August, followed by the Titanic Food Festival from 11am to 5pm on Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 August. Both located at SS Nomadic, these events will feature live music sessions, outdoor movie screenings, carnival games, and pop-up céilís.
Keep an eye out for "Fleadh-friendly signs" at venues across the city, which will indicate special offers and menus. You can also check directly with businesses to see what they have planned for this exciting week!