Belfast City Council and its leisure partner, GLL, have announced a weekend of free sports and fitness activities to celebrate the launch of the European City of Sport 2026 programme.

The "On Your Marks!" open weekend is scheduled for Saturday 31 January and Sunday 1 February. Residents of all ages and abilities are encouraged to visit participating centres to try a wide variety of activities at no cost. The programme includes pickleball, fencing, inclusive climbing, family swimming, martial arts, tennis, and bike skills.

Participating venues include:

- Andersonstown, Brook, and Lisnasharragh Leisure Centres

- Olympia and Grove Wellbeing Centres

- The Indoor Tennis Centre and Ozone Complex

- Shankill Leisure Centre

- Clonduff Community Centre The Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Tracy Kelly, welcomed the initiative: "This is a great opportunity to get local communities involved in creating a year to remember for local sport. This open weekend gives everyone the chance to throw yourself into a new activity, hear how you can get involved with it going forward, and take advantage of everything we have available on our doorsteps."

Belfast was officially awarded the City of Sport title by ACES (Worldwide Capitals and Cities of Sport Federation) in November 2025. This prestigious recognition marks the first time the city has held the title, which celebrates cities that invest in sports infrastructure, local clubs, and community events.

Gareth Kirk, Senior Regional Director with GLL, added: "Our open weekend is a great chance for people to drop in, try something new and see what Belfast has to offer as a European City of Sport in 2026. We want everyone, no matter your age or ability, to get moving, feel good and enjoy being part of an active, healthy city."

With more than 90 sessions available over the two days, participants are encouraged to pre-book their spots. Bookings and further information regarding the City of Sport programme can be found at belfastcity.gov.uk/cityofsport.