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. 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."
Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
03 August 2026
Fleadh To Bring Lasting Economic And Tourism Boost - Archibald
Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald says hosting Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2026 will deliver major cultural, visitor and business benefits across the north. Speaking at the official opening of this year's festival at Belfast City Hall, the Minister welcomed attendees and wished everyone a successful and enjoyable week.
Fleadh To Bring Lasting Economic And Tourism Boost - Archibald
Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald says hosting Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2026 will deliver major cultural, visitor and business benefits across the north. Speaking at the official opening of this year's festival at Belfast City Hall, the Minister welcomed attendees and wished everyone a successful and enjoyable week.
11 August 2025
Belfast Begins Countdown To Fleadh Cheoil 2026
A special 'Fleadh harp' has been passed on to the citizens of Belfast, marking the start of the official countdown to the city hosting the next Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann from 2-9 August 2026.
Belfast Begins Countdown To Fleadh Cheoil 2026
A special 'Fleadh harp' has been passed on to the citizens of Belfast, marking the start of the official countdown to the city hosting the next Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann from 2-9 August 2026.
11 March 2025
Belfast To Host 2026 Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann
Belfast has been confirmed as the host city for the 2026 Comhaltas Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, the world's largest celebration of traditional Irish music and culture. The announcement was made at City Hall on Saturday, 8th March, following a meeting of the Ardchomhairle of Comhaltas in Belfast.
Belfast To Host 2026 Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann
Belfast has been confirmed as the host city for the 2026 Comhaltas Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, the world's largest celebration of traditional Irish music and culture. The announcement was made at City Hall on Saturday, 8th March, following a meeting of the Ardchomhairle of Comhaltas in Belfast.
16 August 2013
L'Derry Fleadh A 'Phenomenal Success'
Mayor of L'Derry Cllr Martin Reilly has described the All Ireland Fleadh Cheoil as a "phenomenal success to date," as the festival attracts more visitors than anticipated. Further numbers are expected in the city over the weekend, as the annual music festival comes to a close.
L'Derry Fleadh A 'Phenomenal Success'
Mayor of L'Derry Cllr Martin Reilly has described the All Ireland Fleadh Cheoil as a "phenomenal success to date," as the festival attracts more visitors than anticipated. Further numbers are expected in the city over the weekend, as the annual music festival comes to a close.
12 August 2013
All-Ireland Fleadh Opens In L'Derry
The all-Ireland Fleadh has been opened today in L'Derry by Martin McGuinness and President Michael D. Higgins, marking the first time the event has been held in Northern Ireland. The deputy First Minister joined the Irish President in Guildhall Square to mark the opening of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2013, which will run from 11 - 18 August.
All-Ireland Fleadh Opens In L'Derry
The all-Ireland Fleadh has been opened today in L'Derry by Martin McGuinness and President Michael D. Higgins, marking the first time the event has been held in Northern Ireland. The deputy First Minister joined the Irish President in Guildhall Square to mark the opening of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2013, which will run from 11 - 18 August.
-




Northern Ireland WeatherToday:It will be a dry morning with prolonged sunny spells. A little cloudier in the afternoon with bright or sunny intervals and showers possible. Brisk winds. Maximum temperature 18 °C.Tonight:Showers this evening will clear, with a dry night following and long clear periods. Winds gradually ease, but coastal areas will stay fairly breezy. Minimum temperature 6 °C.

