Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann took place in Belfast in 2026, the first time the festival has been held in the North East of Ulster. More than 1.6 million people visited the city during the event.

Among those honoured were Marcas Ó Murchú and his daughter Róise Ní Mhurchú, both from Derry.

Mr Ó Murchú received a Gradam na Gaeilge from Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann at a ceremony in the MAC on August 4. Comhaltas President Attracta Ní Bhrádaigh and Director General Labhrás Ó Murchú presented the award. The recognition was for his promotion of the Irish language and music.

Mr Ó Murchú formerly taught Irish and Spanish at St Columb's College in Derry. He was made Ard-Ollamh, or Chief Bard, by Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann at the All-Ireland Fleadh in Derry in 2013. He also received a trophy marking long service as one of three surviving members from the Belfast branch of Comhaltas formed 40 years ago.

Ms Ní Mhurchú received a Gradam 75 for promoting Gaelic song through teaching, performances and singing at the Aifreann Feirste Mass. She is a final year teaching student at St Mary's College.

Ms Ní Mhurchú sang at the annual Fleadh Mass in St Patrick's Church on Donegall Street in Belfast on Sunday last. She was the soloist, performing compositions specially arranged by Patrick Davey. Bishop Alan McGuckian of Down and Connor celebrated the Mass, which was broadcast on Raidió na Gaeltachta.