Funding provided by Tourism Northern Ireland for this year's August Féile has been increased by 13%, a move that has been welcomed by Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald.

Organised by Féile an Phobail, August Féile 2026 is scheduled to run from 24 July until 9 August. The expanded itinerary includes more than 600 individual events hosted across 50 separate venues throughout west Belfast and the wider city.

The Minister said: "This investment recognises the festival's importance not only as a cornerstone of our cultural calendar, but also as a key driver of tourism and economic activity. It offers visitors an authentic experience of our music, arts, and community spirit, while also encouraging them to explore everything our region has to offer.

"With thousands of visitors expected to come to the city, the exciting Féile programme will encourage visitors to extend their stay and explore more and will build the excitement for us hosting the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann."

August Féile is one of 16 distinct celebrations securing financial backing via the International Tourism Events Fund 2026-27, making a substantial contribution to the regional tourism economy. The schedule—spanning musical concerts, debates, discussions, art exhibitions, comedy nights, sports activities, and community gatherings—has been expanded this year to build early momentum. This extension aims to maximise the economic opportunities arriving alongside other major summer cultural fixtures in the city, such as Tradfest, Belfast Mela, and the upcoming Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann.

The Minister continued: "It is shaping up to be an exciting summer. Many of those attending the August Féile and Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann are expected to explore beyond Belfast, enjoying our stunning landscapes, rich heritage, renowned food and drink, high-quality accommodation, and visitor attractions." Siobhan McGuigan, Head of Events at Tourism Northern Ireland, noted the agency's pleasure in backing the 2026 festival as part of a strong seasonal programme of regional events. She highlighted that the celebration continues to expand its reach and scale, playing a critical role in promoting Belfast and Northern Ireland to international travellers.

Siobhan McGuigan, Head of Events at Tourism Northern Ireland, said: "We are pleased to support August Féile 2026 as part of an impressive programme of festivals and events taking place this summer.

"The festival continues to evolve in scale and ambition, playing an important role in showcasing Belfast and Northern Ireland as a vibrant and varied cultural destination which attracts international visitors."

Expressing his delight at the financial injection, Féile an Phobail Director Kevin Gamble explained that the International Tourism Events Fund allocation will assist the organisation in scaling the cultural event further. He added that the diverse programme will continue to highlight local creativity and community spirit to audiences travelling from across Britain, Ireland, and further abroad.

Kevin Gamble, Director of Féile an Phobail added: "We are absolutely delighted to receive this significant support from Tourism NI through the International Tourism Events Fund. This investment will help Féile an Phobail continue to grow as one of Ireland's leading community arts and cultural festivals, attracting even more visitors from across Ireland, Britain and further afield to Belfast and the Gaeltacht Quarter.

"Each year Féile offers a fantastic and diverse programme of events – from world-class music and entertainment, debates and discussions, traditional sessions, family activities and cultural experiences – showcasing the very best of Belfast's creativity, culture and community spirit.

"We know visitors are increasingly seeking authentic cultural experiences and Féile provides exactly that, alongside the famous céad míle fáilte that awaits everyone who comes to enjoy the festival. We look forward to welcoming audiences from near and far to experience everything Féile has to offer."