Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in Belfast

Attention trad music lovers!

Every summer, a host town on the island of Ireland welcomes musicians, dancers and performers from across the globe for a rip-roaring traditional music celebration. At Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, the world’s largest annual festival of Irish music, you can expect street performances, intimate concerts, big-name acts and over 180 competitions showcasing the very best of traditional music talent.

From instrument-making to beginner bodhrán circles to céilí dancing, there are so many ways to get involved in this week-long extravaganza. It's more than just music. It's a cultural and creative get-together like no other. Expect multi-cultural performances, cross-community showcases, language classes and more.

A BIG Belfast welcome awaits

This year, Belfast hosts the Fleadh for the first time EVER, and it's expected to be the biggest one ever, too. The Fleadh rarely comes to a city, so this Belfast-wide festival is not to be missed. The island's only UNESCO City of Music is primed to showcase its credentials as a Mecca for music lovers.

The electrifying entertainment will centre around the Fleadh's famous Gig Rig outdoor stage, against the stunning backdrop of Belfast City Hall. Other iconic music venues include Ulster Hall and Waterfront Hall. Topping the bill is Irish music legend Sharon Shannon and her Big Band, with other unmissable performances from acclaimed uilleann piper Conor Mallon and showstopping trad pop band Mec Lir.

Headliners aside, the Fleadh's finest moments can often be found in hidden corners around the city. So, as the festival atmosphere sweeps through Belfast's cobbled lanes and historic pubs, listen out and follow the sounds of an impromptu street session starting up – the magic of the Fleadh is in the air...

A musical city

From the Belfast Traditional Music Trail to Creative Tours Belfast, music is in the DNA of Belfast. Take the trad music trail, it's led by not one but two professional musicians and features personal performances in intimate venues around the city. As for the creative tours, they cover topics ranging from Belfast's punk lineage to hometown heroes like Van Morrison, while visiting iconic music venues such as the Oh Yeah Music Centre.

And if it's a simple trad music session by a cosy pub fireside you're after, you'll find performances every night of the week across the city! For trendy nightspots, explore the cool Cathedral Quarter, Belfast's creative hub, stacked with whiskey bars, chic eateries, and more. To party into the wee hours, check out the best of Belfast's nightlife. Smooth jazz, fiery samba and electrifying dancefloors are calling.

Beyond the Fleadh

There's SO much more to enjoy alongside Belfast's musical heritage. Chow down on foodie treats at the Victorian-era St George's Market. Hike up Cave Hill for epic views of the city and Belfast Lough. And of course, make sure to visit Titanic Belfast at the very docks where the infamous ship was built over 100 years ago. This compact city rewards explorers with hidden gems such as enchanting CS Lewis Square, the postcard-perfect Botanic Gardens, eerie Crumlin Road Gaol and much else.

Those who venture further afield can unlock even more of Northern Ireland's charm, with day trips taking in Game of Thrones® territory, world-class golf courses and maritime wonders along the Causeway Coastal Route.

Come for the music, stay for the craic. Belfast is ready to welcome you. Can't make it this year? Don't worry, the Fleadh will be back in Belfast AGAIN in 2027! That's plenty of time to plan ahead. As the music motto goes: "If it's nice, play it twice."