More than 800,000 people are expected in Belfast for Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann from 2 to 9 August, triggering a major travel operation.

A large area of the city centre will be pedestrianised from 5am on Sunday 2 August until 7am on Monday 10 August. Road closures, diversions and parking restrictions will be in place. Main routes across the wider city remain open but drivers should expect delays and plan alternative routes.

Translink will run all Metro, Glider, Ulsterbus and train services with additional capacity and frequency. Some bus stops around City Hall will be temporarily relocated, with signs directing passengers. Late-night bus and rail services will operate on Sunday 2 August and again from Thursday 6 to Sunday 9 August. Special day return fleet services will depart from towns across Northern Ireland, subject to demand, and can be pre-booked.

Three official Park and Ride sites at Eikon Exhibition Centre (Sprucefield, near M1), Giant’s Park (near M2) and Belfast Harbour Estate (near M3) will offer shuttle buses every 10 minutes at peak times on all event days. Spaces can be booked in advance or paid for by contactless on the day. Two sites also offer overnight parking.

Belfast Bikes will continue to operate, with a 20 per cent discount on 100-minute bundles during the festival. Secure cycle parking is available at CastleCourt. Disabled parking will be provided close to shuttle pick-up points and designated Blue Badge spaces at Dunbar Street and Winetavern Street. A free city centre loop service will assist those with mobility issues.

Taxi services will use dedicated ranks around the pedestrianised zone, and a coach terminal will operate from Linenhall Street. City centre residents and commuters are advised to avoid driving and to walk, cycle or use public transport.