THIS year's Féile an Phobail has been hailed as the "biggest ever" by organisers with record attendances across all events.
Running from July 25 to August 9, over 700 events took place, including over 90 debates and discussions, 130 Trad Trail music sessions, 120 art exhibitions, a host of literary, sporting and theatre events, a massive carnival parade with over 6,000 people in attendance, and a series of family events.
The Falls Park events space also hosted seven 12,000 capacity outdoor concerts, welcoming Ben Nicky, the 2 Johnnies, Kneecap, The Saw Doctors, The Hothouse Flowers and Billy Gillies.
Féile an Phobail Director Kevin Gamble said: "This year’s Féile an Phobail saw the biggest Féile ever held. This year was a record year with record attendances across all our events.
“Our debates and discussions, family events, nature and environment events, children's events, tours and walks also had record attendances this year.
“Also significantly, due to the hard work and commitment of Féile staff and volunteers, community organisations, political representatives and Belfast City Council, and the support of our young people and the local community, Belfast was bonfire free on 8th August. All those involved in achieving this deserve praise. In past years these unwanted bonfires have brought destruction and an increase in anti-social behaviour to the areas in which they were held.
“The benefit of the absence of these unwanted bonfires on 8th August is significant. As well as the positive images emanating from the festival events showcasing Belfast in a positive light, there is also the considerable benefit to the city’s economy which the associated increase in visitor footfall and spending over the duration of the festival brings to the city.
“Over the last 38 years, Féile has a proven track record of delivering significant social, cultural and economic benefits to the city of Belfast, and this increases year on year.
“This year, representatives from all communities were welcomed to Féile to have their voice heard, both as spectators and participants.
“All political persuasions attended and participated in various panel discussions, as did representatives from minority ethnic communities, and international visitors.
“Féile 2026 was the biggest and best ever Féile and I want to thank every person who attended, supported, and who make Féile the special festival that it is.
“We look forward to an even bigger Féile in 2027!”
