All-Ireland Fleadh to return to Belfast in 2027

By Rebecca Black, Press Association

The all-Ireland Fleadh is to return to Belfast for the second year in a row in 2027.

It comes as the Northern Ireland capital prepares to host the world’s largest celebration of Irish music and culture for the first time this summer.

The announcement was made following a meeting of the Ardchomhairle of Comhaltas in Dublin on Saturday.

Belfast will also become the first location in Northern Ireland to host the event twice.

The showcase of traditional music, song, dance and language, which will take place from August 2nd to 9th, is expected to attract more than 800,000.

Some of the artists involved will include musician Sharon Shannon and her Big Band who will headline the main stage outside Belfast City Hall on Sunday, August 2nd.

Other acts performing on the famous Gig Rig stage for the opening ceremony will be award-winning group Goitse, the Blackwater Ceili Band and Belfast ensemble McPeake.

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 line-up will also include a range of school choirs, as well as cross-community and multicultural performances, creating a day of free entertainment and setting the tone for a week of multi-generational shared celebration across the city.

Deputy Lord Mayor of Belfast Paul Doherty described it as a “tremendous honour” for the city.

“We’re delighted our city will host the Fleadh again in 2027,” he said.

“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 a 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 Ceoltoiri Eireann praised the partnership with Belfast City Council and their host local branch, Ards CCE, saying that the combination of world-class international venues and specialist music hubs, unique street environments and strong community support made the decision to return to Belfast an easy one.

Dr Labhras O Murchu, director-general of Comhaltas, said Belfast will elevate the event to new heights.

“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,” he said.

“With world-class stages in the Waterfront and Ulster Hall, Belfast is set to elevate the amazing performances and atmosphere of Fleadh Cheoil na hEireann 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 CCE have put into planning 2026 and for their 2027 bid.”

Niall McClean, chairman of Ards CCE, added: “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.”