Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann is back this summer, this time taking place in Belfast for the very first time from Sunday 2nd August to Sunday 9th August 2026.
It brings eight extraordinary days of Irish traditional music, song, dance and culture to Ireland’s only UNESCO City of Music.
With more than 800,000 visitors expected to descend on the city, it will be one of the biggest and most celebrated events ever to take place in Belfast.
Whether you are a lifelong devotee of Irish traditional music or a first-time visitor curious to experience the magic of the Fleadh, Belfast is ready to welcome you with open arms and plenty of craic.
Here’s what you need to know…
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How big is the Fleadh compared with other Irish festivals?
Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann is the largest festival of its kind in the world. It regularly attracts participants and spectators from every corner of the globe, including large Irish diaspora communities from the United States, Canada, Australia, Britain and beyond.
How many visitors are expected?
Around 800,000 visitors are expected to attend the eight-day festival, making it one of the biggest events ever to take place in Belfast.
Why has Belfast been chosen as the host city?
Belfast is Ireland’s only UNESCO-designated City of Music, making it a natural and fitting home for the event. The bid was submitted by Belfast City Council in partnership with Ards CCÉ.
Will Belfast host the Fleadh again?
Yes. CCÉ has already announced that Belfast will host the Fleadh again in 2027, making it a back-to-back host city. So exciting!
How do I get to Belfast from Dublin?
Belfast is approximately one-and-a-half to two hours from Dublin by road or rail. Enterprise train services run regularly between Dublin Connolly and Belfast Grand Central Station. Buses also run frequently between the two cities.
How long will it take me to get there from other parts of Ireland?
From Limerick it will take around four to five hours by public transport. From Cork allow around five to six hours. Most routes involve changing in Dublin.
Is Belfast easy to get around on foot?
Yes. Belfast is a compact, walkable city and many of the Fleadh venues, pubs, restaurants and attractions are within easy walking distance of one another.
What public transport options are available in Belfast?
The city has an excellent Metro bus network, the Glider rapid transit system running east to west across the city and rail services to the suburbs and beyond. These are all operated by Translink.
Should I bring my car to Belfast for the Fleadh?
Visitors are strongly encouraged to leave their car at home. A large part of the city centre will be closed to most vehicles during the Fleadh, and parking will be limited.
Where can I stay in Belfast during the Fleadh?
Belfast offers a wide range of accommodation options including city centre hotels, boutique guesthouses, B&Bs, self-catering apartments and hostels. Special Fleadh camping sites and short-term stays in the city’s student accommodation are also available.
Are there camping options for the Fleadh?
Yes. Three different campsites will accommodate different types of campers, each offering a safe and friendly base for your Fleadh experience. Spaces can be booked for four nights or for the full eight days. Titanic Quarter will host campervans, caravans and roof tents, while Ormeau Park and Falls Park will host tent-only camping.
Are there free events at the Fleadh?
Yes. Many of the Fleadh’s events, including street performances, pub sessions and outdoor entertainment, are free to attend.
Where are the Fleadh events taking place?
The Gig Rig at Belfast City Hall will host a packed programme of free music and performances throughout the festival. Special performances and competitions will also take place at Ulster Hall, ICC Belfast and Waterfront Hall. Scoil Éigse, Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann’s annual international summer school, will take place at Ulster University’s Belfast campus, while The MAC will host a range of Fleadh-related cultural events and performances in a contemporary arts setting.
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What is the food scene like in Belfast?
Belfast has a thriving, award-winning food scene ranging from Michelin-starred restaurants to street food markets, traditional pubs serving hearty food and a diverse range of international cuisines.
Where are the best areas to eat and drink in Belfast?
The Cathedral Quarter, Linen Quarter, Botanic Avenue and Stranmillis in the Queen’s Quarter are all excellent hubs for food and drink, with a wide range of options to suit every taste and budget.
Are there activities for children at the Fleadh?
Yes. The Fleadh traditionally includes youth competitions, music and dance workshops, storytelling events and outdoor activities suitable for children of all ages.