22/07/2026
Archibald Joins Presidential Reception As Belfast Counts Down To Fleadh 2026
Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has attended a reception hosted by President of Ireland Catherine Connolly for Comhaltas, marking the countdown to Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2026, which is due to take place in Belfast next month.
The gathering brought together key partners and stakeholders involved in delivering the festival. The Minister underlined the significant economic, tourism and cultural benefits it is expected to generate for Belfast and the wider north.
Dr Archibald said: "I am proud that Belfast will host Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann next month and look forward to welcoming visitors from across Ireland and around the world.
"With more than 700,000 visitors expected, the Fleadh presents a major opportunity to boost tourism, support local businesses and showcase Belfast and the north on an international stage.
"The event will bring significant economic benefits while also creating a lasting legacy by encouraging greater participation in traditional music, culture, language and the arts.
The Minister added: "I would like to thank Comhaltas, Belfast City Council, Ards CCE, Tourism NI, the many partner organisations, volunteers and local communities whose hard work and dedication have made this landmark event possible."
The gathering brought together key partners and stakeholders involved in delivering the festival. The Minister underlined the significant economic, tourism and cultural benefits it is expected to generate for Belfast and the wider north.
"With more than 700,000 visitors expected, the Fleadh presents a major opportunity to boost tourism, support local businesses and showcase Belfast and the north on an international stage.
"The event will bring significant economic benefits while also creating a lasting legacy by encouraging greater participation in traditional music, culture, language and the arts.
The Minister added: "I would like to thank Comhaltas, Belfast City Council, Ards CCE, Tourism NI, the many partner organisations, volunteers and local communities whose hard work and dedication have made this landmark event possible."
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:Dry with variable amounts of cloud and sunny spells through the day, best of the sunshine this afternoon. Northern counties may remain cloudy through the afternoon. Warm in the southeast. Maximum temperature 19 °C.Tonight:This evening will be dry, some late brightness in the south. Then the rest of the night will remain dry and becoming rather cloudy. Light winds. Minimum temperature 13 °C.