The Fleadh Has Brought a 95% Surge in Footfall to Belfast
Image via VisitBelfast
The Fleadh Has Brought a 95% Surge in Footfall to Belfast
Text: Izzy Copestake
The celebration of all things Irish music and culture has transformed Belfast, with events taking place in venues, pubs, and on streets across the city.
The 2026 Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann is currently in full swing, and this year marks an especially important milestone. It is the first time the celebration has been held in Belfast, which is also the first UNESCO City of Music to host the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann.
This monumental occasion has led to a significant increase in visitors across the city, with Belfast experiencing a remarkable 95% surge in footfall. The impact of the event has been felt throughout the city centre, where an estimated 170,000 visitors were recorded on Sunday alone.
The celebration of all things Irish music and culture has transformed Belfast, with events taking place in venues, pubs, and on streets across the city. The festival has also prompted a trial of extended opening hours for shops and several streets have been pedestrianised to accommodate the influx of visitors.
Speaking about the event, Visit Belfast chief executive Gerry Lennon said: “You don’t need statistics to know this is special – all you have to do is look around, look at the people with smiles on their faces. This is truly a historic event.”
If you’re heading to Belfast this weekend, you’re in for a treat. Throughout the weekend, heavy hitters like The Hothouse Flowers, Lúnasa, Dónal Lunny, and Andy Irvine will be broadcast live on TG4 from Belfast City Centre.
Other must-sees include Joshua burnside, Niamh Noade, Sean Mckenna, Alfi, Céilí Shamrock Show Band, plus many more. Meanwhile, the Fleadh Cheoil competitions will run at ICC Belfast with different categories throughout the three days.
Aside from the live music, you can also enjoy screenings, workshops, tours, comedy shows, dancing, markets, talks, and exhibitions.
During Wild Belfast Group Exhibition ‘Dúcas – In Our Nature’, 20 artists explore the connection between Irish folklore and the species we share the land with. There is also a screening of the ‘Man of Aran’ at St. Joseph’s Church, where you can watch a 1934 silent film by Robert J. Flaherty, portraying life on Ireland’s Aran Islands. And if you’re in the mood for dancing, the Open Air Céilí welcomes all to join in, whether you’re a seasoned dancer or taking your very first steps.
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