Belfast TradFest 2026 is set to bring almost 600 events to the city, featuring 1,000 performers across 40 venues. The eighth edition of the festival opens on Sunday and runs through 2 August.

The festival will launch with a large outdoor céilí at Titanic Slipways. Registration is required for the free event, which begins at 13:00 BST. Organisers expect over 10,000 people to attend. The Blackwater Céilí Band, Jack Warnock and Niamh McGlinchey will perform, and family activities will include a bodhrán circle, face painting, children’s maritime art workshops and food stalls.

Artistic director Dónal O’Connor said the céilí serves as a connection to ancestors, celebrating their spirit and resilience.

Other headline concerts at the Mandela Hall include a performance by the Michael McGoldrick Big Band on Sunday evening, and sets by Cherish the Ladies on Sunday afternoon and Solas on 31 July.

Late-night gatherings are scheduled at The Deer’s Head, and pop-up céilís, traditional music performances and bodhrán circles will take place at Grand Central Station.

The festival also offers masterclasses, talks and screenings. Sessions will be held in pubs across the city, and alcohol-free sober sessions are planned. A walking tour will explore Belfast’s harping heritage.

Belfast TradFest ends on 2 August, the same day the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann begins in the city. The All-Ireland Fleadh, the world’s largest festival of Irish music and dance, runs until 9 August and is expected to draw 800,000 visitors.

Organisers of TradFest plan to attempt a Guinness World Record for the world’s largest céilí at next year’s event.