Belfast is set to make history in August 2026 as it proudly hosts the Comhaltas Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann for the very first time. This incredible event, the world's largest celebration of Irish music and culture, is expected to draw more than 800,000 visitors to our city between Sunday, August 2nd, and Sunday, August 9th.
Preparations are well underway to ensure Belfast is ready to welcome everyone. The city council has been working closely with hospitality and nightlife venues, granting new and extended entertainment licences, as well as temporary pavement café licences. This means more places will be able to offer fantastic experiences, from live music to outdoor dining. Even businesses like Neighbourhood Café and Bakarí bakery on Donegall Street are expanding their services, ready to cater to the influx of people.
Councillor Conor McKay, Deputy Chair of the council’s Licensing Committee, highlighted the immense benefits this event brings. “The Fleadh will be the biggest event our city has ever hosted, and it's a fantastic opportunity to create jobs, showcase Belfast on an international stage, and give a significant boost to our local businesses through increased footfall and sales,” he said. He extended thanks to local traders for their cooperation, noting the council's aim is to ensure visitors can fully embrace the spontaneous, electric atmosphere of the Fleadh, while businesses can manage the large crowds safely and efficiently.
Getting around Belfast during the Fleadh will be made easier with a range of transport options. Translink will be running late-night services on Sunday, August 2nd, and from Thursday, August 6th, to Sunday, August 9th, which are expected to be the busiest days. More details will be available on their website and via the Journey Planner app.
Shuttle buses will also be available for those using the dedicated Park and Ride sites, running until 2 am on peak event nights (August 2nd, 7th-9th) and until midnight on other evenings (August 3rd-5th). Taxis will operate around the pedestrian event zone, with designated private hire pick-up and drop-off points located at Corporation Street, Little Donegall Street, the junction of North Street and Royal Avenue, King Street, Adelaide Street, and Chichester Street. Public hire taxis will run as usual where possible, with some temporary relocations during busy periods.
While the city centre will be the hub for most official Fleadh events, we’re particularly excited that a vibrant fringe festival, featuring over 90 events, will spread the celebrations into our local neighbourhoods. This is a wonderful opportunity for North Belfast residents and visitors alike to enjoy the music, dance, and culture right on their doorstep. For comprehensive information on what’s on, including both city centre and neighbourhood events, you can visit the official Fleadh website.