Seven major businesses have signed on to support this year's Comhaltas Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in Belfast, backing what organisers say will be one of the largest events the city has ever hosted.

The confirmed sponsors are Maxer, Donnelly Group, Dalata Hotel Group (operators of the Clayton Hotel Belfast and Maldron Hotel Belfast City), Clover Group, Jigsaw, the Irish World Academy of Music and Dance at the University of Limerick, and Salty Buoy Beer Company.

Maxer will serve as the official digital partner, with Donnelly Group appointed official vehicle partner. The partnerships will help deliver a programme expected to generate significant economic, cultural and tourism benefits for Belfast, while showcasing the city – still Ireland's only UNESCO City of Music – on the international stage.

Belfast City Council, together with event partners Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann and Ards CCÉ, is preparing to welcome more than 800,000 people between Sunday 2 and Sunday 9 August. Events will take place across the city, including competitions, concerts and céilís, along with street sessions, cultural activities and family-friendly entertainment.

"We are delighted to welcome these seven businesses as official sponsors of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann here in Belfast," said Councillor Ian McLaughlin, Chair of the council's Strategic Policy and Resources Committee.

"Their support demonstrates the strong partnership between the event and the business community, and a shared belief in the power of music and culture to bring people together in friendship, drive economic impact and showcase Belfast at its very best. "The Fleadh will be a landmark moment for our city, inviting everyone to celebrate together, while providing a warm welcome to visitors from across the world. We are grateful to our sponsors for helping us deliver an unforgettable experience for everyone who takes part."

The sponsors join a growing network of partners committed to delivering an accessible, inclusive and welcoming Fleadh for residents, businesses, competitors and visitors.

Financial backing of £1 million from Tourism NI is also helping to maximise the economic impact by drawing international visitors and strengthening the wider region's reputation as a destination for investment and tourism.

Both TG4 and RTÉ will return as official media partners, broadcasting live from Belfast throughout the week and producing special programmes and streaming coverage during and after the event.

"Thank you to the sponsors who have come on board for Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2026," said Brendan McAleer from Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann.

"Their support is an investment in our culture, our communities and the thousands of musicians, performers and visitors who make the Fleadh such a special celebration each year. We are grateful for their commitment and are proud to welcome them as valued partners in delivering a memorable Fleadh in Belfast. We couldn't do it without them."

Looking ahead, Belfast will host the Fleadh again in 2027, with expressions of interest for future sponsorship and partnership opportunities expected to open in autumn 2026.

For more information on what's on at the Fleadh, including travel, accommodation and visitor guidance, visit the official website at fleadhcheoil.ie.