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The Fleadh Confirmed for Belfast Next Year

It’s confirmed: the Fleadh is coming to Belfast.

For the first time ever, Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann is set to take over the city in August 2026, bringing hundreds of thousands of visitors, €70 million in economic impact, and an unreal week of trad, sessions, céilís and craic to Belfast.

This is only the second time in 75 years that the world’s biggest traditional music festival has landed north of the border. After the massive success of Derry’s Fleadh in 2013, Belfast has its chance to leave its mark – and as a UNESCO City of Music, it’s more than ready.

Expect over 400 events, from competitions and big-name concerts to street performances, pop-up gigs and late-night sessions. Whether you’re deep into trad or just here for the atmosphere, it’s going to be an unmissable moment for the city.

Belfast Lord Mayor Micky Murray summed it up: “I have no doubt that the Fleadh in Belfast will be something unique. It will be a truly inclusive festival that will allow all our citizens – and visitors from near and far – to celebrate together.”

More details to come, but for now, get it in the calendar: 2–9 August 2026.

is the editor of The Thin Air. Talk to him about Philip Glass and/or follow him on Twitter @brianconey.