Belfast Hosts Fleadh Cheoil, Ireland’s Largest Traditional Music Festival

The Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann opened in Belfast on 2 August, marking the first time the eight‑day celebration of Irish traditional music has been held in the city and only the second occasion in Northern Ireland. More than 200 events and 180 music competitions are scheduled across venues, pubs and streets, running until 9 August.

The festival’s main outdoor stage, the Gig Rig, is set up outside Belfast City Hall, offering free live performances daily. Opening speeches were delivered by the first and deputy first ministers, Belfast’s Lord Mayor Róis‑Máire Donnelly and Irish President Catherine Connolly. Highlights include collaborations by Ards CCÉ, the South Asian Dance Academy, Belfast Bands Forum, highland pipers, champion Irish dancers led by Riverdance’s Lauren Smyth, and a schools‑choir project involving over 100 local children. Musicians and dancers from across Ireland and abroad are participating in workshops, sessions and competitions throughout the week.