Belfast will host Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in 2027. The announcement came from Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann in Dublin on Saturday. The city prepares to stage the event for the first time from 2 to 9 August this year.

The festival runs eight days. Organisers expect more than 800,000 visitors. Comhaltas partners with Belfast City Council and Ards CCÉ on the event. It features All-Ireland competitions in music, song, dance and language, plus concerts, céilís and cultural activities.

Belfast becomes the first Northern Ireland location to host the festival twice. Deputy Lord Mayor Councillor Paul Doherty stated the selection recognises Belfast as the island's only UNESCO City of Music. He noted the two-year run will boost tourism and support local businesses, hospitality and cultural groups.

Organisers named performers for the 2026 opening on 2 August outside Belfast City Hall. Sharon Shannon and her Big Band will headline the main stage. Goitse, Blackwater Ceili Band and McPeake join the lineup. School choirs and cross-community performances fill out the free opening day.

Dr Labhrás Ó Murchú, Director-General of Comhaltas, cited Belfast venues including the Waterfront and Ulster Hall as factors in the 2027 choice. He highlighted the partnership with Belfast City Council and Ards CCÉ.

Niall McClean, Chairperson of Ards CCÉ, reported increased enrolment in traditional music classes around Belfast ahead of 2026. He described the festival as a means to pass skills between generations.

West Belfast MLA Aisling Reilly said the event will draw visitors from Ireland and beyond to celebrate music, culture and language while aiding the economy.