Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2026 Kicks Off, North Belfast Gets Involved!

Today, August 2nd, 2026, Belfast has truly come alive with the official launch of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2026! Streets across the city are buzzing with powerful performances, family activities, and lively outdoor music, marking the beginning of eight days dedicated to traditional Irish culture.

Crowds gathered at City Hall this lunchtime to witness Belfast’s Lord Mayor, Councillor Róis-Máire Donnelly, declare the event officially open, promising a week packed with music, singing, and dancing until Sunday, August 9. Distinguished guests included President Catherine Connolly, First Minister Michelle O'Neill, Deputy First Minister Emma Pengelly, Economy Minister Dr. Caoimhe Archibald, and Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Dr. Chris Bryant. They were joined by Dr. Labhrás Ó Murchú, Director General of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, and Attracta Ní Bhrádaigh, President of Comhaltas, alongside local musicians, dancers, and schoolchildren who delivered a vibrant, energetic display, offering a taste of the excitement ahead.

Over 800,000 visitors are expected in Belfast this week for what is one of Europe's largest cultural events. The Fleadh brings together the best of traditional Irish music, All-Ireland competitions, activities for all ages, community-led events, and a showcase of Belfast's rich and diverse heritage as a UNESCO City of Music.

Welcoming visitors, Lord Mayor Councillor Róis-Máire Donnelly emphasised the Fleadh as an opportunity for people to unite, support local businesses, create opportunities for young people, and foster pride within communities and the city. She paid tribute to the collaborative efforts of , Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, and CCÉ na nArda, along with venues, arts organisations, staff, and volunteers.

“Rhythm and harmony find their way into the soul – that’s what the Fleadh means to me," she told the audience. "It’s a celebration of our culture, that ancient soul flowing out across the city, in our streets and in our homes. From City Hall and into our neighbourhoods, the Fleadh will showcase extraordinary talent, alongside the hospitality and friendliness that this city offers. As a UNESCO City of Music, creativity is woven into our identity. Tunes will be played this week because Edward Bunting transcribed them in the Assembly Rooms over 230 years ago – the great wheels of life! We celebrate that heritage as we welcome hundreds of thousands of visitors from across Ireland and the world to experience what this city has to offer.”

Dr. Labhrás Ó Murchú reflected on Comhaltas’s 75th anniversary, expressing pride in its journey of uniting communities through Irish traditional music, culture, and friendship. He noted, “Back in 1967, I asked myself if Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann would ever come to Belfast. Today, that question has been answered. The Fleadh coming to Belfast is a true dream and a truly historic occasion for Comhaltas and the city. I hope the legacy of this historic Fleadh will be felt across Belfast for many years to come.”

Attracta Ní Bhradaigh added, “It is a great honour to welcome everyone to the first Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann to be held in Belfast. This is a significant moment in Comhaltas’s history as we celebrate our 75th anniversary and bring the Fleadh to this vibrant, historic city. Whether you are here to compete, perform, volunteer, or simply enjoy the atmosphere, I hope you relish everything Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann has to offer and celebrate the music, culture, and friendship that have been at the heart of Comhaltas for 75 years.”

A special ‘Shared Traditions’ performance kicked off the Gig Rig at City Hall. This collaborative display featured CCÉ na nArda, the South Asian Dance Academy, the Belfast Pipe Bands Forum, a line-up of Scottish Highland pipers, and champion Irish dancers, led by Riverdance star Lauren Smyth. Over 100 primary and secondary schoolchildren from across Belfast and North Down took to the impressive outdoor stage, delivering a powerful rendition of 'Belfast Belle' as part of a cross-community schools choir project – showcasing incredible local talent right here on our doorstep!

The music continued throughout the afternoon with performances from Hothouse Flowers, Annalise Whyte, CCÉ na nArda, and the Blackwater Céilí Band. The evening featured Shaer, Moss and Warnock Trio, Goitse, and Sharon Shannon and her Big Band.

Elsewhere across the city, events filled the day, including traditional music sessions for children at 2 Royal Avenue, carnival music from the BEATnDRUM samba band at Flaxx Social Space, and the opening of the Food Village at Belfast Cathedral. Local community events were a major highlight, with a Super Sunday Session in the Commons on Ormeau Road, special music trails connecting North and South Belfast into the city centre, heritage tours, and dance sessions.

To discover everything happening at the Fleadh this week, visit fleadhcheoil.ie and follow Fleadh Cheoil on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.