The band had originally said they would retire after shows in Belfast and Dublin in 2024
The Wolfe Tones have announced that they will return to Belfast’s SSE Arena this summer, less than two years after they retired from performing.
The band, which was formed in 1964 and was named after Theobald Wolfe Tone, one of the leaders of the Irish Rebellion of 1798, had said that they were “delighted to end their career on their own terms,” with sell-out arena shows in Belfast and Dublin in 2024, marking their 60-year career.
The chorus of “Ooh, aah, up the ‘Ra” in their song Celtic Symphony has led to complaints from IRA victims and unionist politicians.
While the group has been embroiled in some controversy in recent years over some of their lyrics, they have also enjoyed global success with shows at New York’s Carnegie Hall and the Paris Olympia.
Tommy Byrne, Noel Nagle and Brian Warfield will return to Belfast’s SSE Arena on Saturday, 29th August 2026.
“We’re proud to sing about the history, culture and character of this country, and we still have the fire to do it. So in 2026, we’ll take to the stage once more.
“Thank you for the support – we look forward to sharing the music and the moments again,” The Wolfe Tones said as they announced their comeback.
Tickets on sale Friday, 6 February at 9 am via ticketmaster.ie.
For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here and sign up to our daily newsletter here.