Belfast will become the first location in Northern Ireland to stage the event twice
Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann have announced that Belfast will host Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann once more in 2027, representing the second successive year the city will stage the world’s biggest celebration of Irish music and culture.
The announcement was made in Dublin this afternoon (Saturday 7 March) after a meeting of the Ardchomhairle of Comhaltas and arrives as Belfast gears up to host the prestigious event for the first time from 2 to 9 August this year. The thrilling news means Belfast will become the first location in Northern Ireland to stage the event on two occasions, reinforcing the city’s standing as a leading destination for major cultural festivals and international gatherings.
Organised by Comhaltas alongside Belfast City Council and Ards CCÉ, the 8-day celebration of traditional music, song, dance and language is expected to attract over 800,000 visitors thanks to its distinctive blend of All-Ireland competitions, concerts, céilís and cultural programmes.
As preparations begin for a second year in Belfast, organisers have also revealed the roster of performers who will launch the 2026 event. Legendary musician Sharon Shannon and her Big Band will take centre stage outside Belfast City Hall on Sunday 2 August.
Celebrated for her electrifying performances and genre-blending collaborations, the acclaimed accordion player will kick off an energetic week in the city alongside host Comhaltas branch, Ards CCÉ. Other performers taking to the renowned Gig Rig stage for the opening ceremony will include award-winning ensemble Goitse; former All-Ireland champions, Blackwater Ceili Band; and Belfast group McPeake.
The programme will feature an array of school choirs, alongside cross-community and multi-cultural performances delivering a day of complimentary entertainment and establishing the atmosphere for a week of multi-generational shared festivities throughout the city.
The dual announcement demonstrates the growing excitement surrounding a significant two years ahead for Belfast.
Deputy Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Paul Doherty said: “We’re delighted our city will host the Fleadh again in 2027. It’s a tremendous honour for Belfast and underscores its status as the island’s only UNESCO City of Music. It allows us to build on 2026 and further strengthen Belfast’s position as a vibrant, inclusive city that celebrates its rich cultural heritage.
“The two-year staging will deliver substantial tourism and economic impact, supporting local businesses, hospitality providers and cultural organisations. The opportunity to welcome so many artists and visitors to our city is already bringing great excitement and will no doubt add to the atmosphere and energy of the week. We look forward to sharing everything Belfast has to offer and to celebrating together.”
Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann commended the partnership with Belfast City Council and their host local branch, Ards CCÉ, highlighting that the combination of world-class international venues and specialist music hubs, distinctive street settings and robust community backing had made the choice to bring the event back to Belfast a straightforward one.
Dr Labhrás Ó Murchú, Director-General of Comhaltas said: “The decision to host the Fleadh in Belfast again in 2027 reflects the scale of our ambition and the strength of our partnership with Belfast City Council. With world class stages in the Waterfront and Ulster Hall, Belfast is set to elevate the amazing performances and atmosphere of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann to new heights. It’s clear the warmth of welcome that awaits in Belfast will create a natural home for the event and we look forward to celebrating our 75th milestone year in the city. We appreciate the work that Belfast City Council and Ards CCÉ have put into planning 2026 and for their 2027 bid.”
Niall McClean, Chairperson of Ards CCÉ, stated: “It’s a privilege to host the event in Belfast in both 2026 and 2027. Even before the first note has been played at Fleadh 2026, we’ve seen a remarkable surge in interest in Irish traditional music, song and dance with increased enrolment in classes particularly around Belfast. The Fleadh is more than a festival, it’s a catalyst to inspire older generations to pass on their skills and for new generations to carry these timeless traditions forward. We continue to be delighted to be part of this momentous opportunity for both our organisation and for Belfast.”
Sinn Féin MLA Aisling Reilly welcomed official confirmation that Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann will return to Belfast for a second year.
“As preparations continue to mount for this year’s Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, it’s incredible news that it is set to return again in 2027,” she said.
“Expected to attract hundreds of thousands from across Ireland and further afield, the Fleadh will be a fantastic celebration of music, culture and language.
“As well as being an enormous social celebration, the festival will also be a significant driver for our economy.
“I look forward to the next two summers with Belfast being at the centre of celebrating all that is positive about our people, our heritage and our communities.”
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