PARTNERS and stakeholders involved in delivering the Comhaltas Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2026 have met to reflect on the success of the event and discuss opportunities to build on its legacy, ahead of Belfast hosting the All-Ireland event again in 2027.
Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald and Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins led the meeting which brought together representatives from government, tourism and cultural organisations whose partnership helped deliver one of the largest cultural events ever hosted in Belfast.
The session was hosted by Lord Mayor of Belfast Councillor Róis-Máire Donnelly on behalf of lead partners Belfast City Council, who delivered this summer’s successful event, along with Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann and Ards CCÉ.
Discussions focused on the impact of the 2026 Fleadh, lessons from its delivery and how partners can work together to build on its success when the event returns to Belfast in August 2027.
Speaking after the meeting, Lord Mayor Councillor Róis-Máire Donnelly said: "Fleadh 2026 has shown what Béal Feirste can achieve when we come together to host an event of this scale and ambition.
"More than 1.7 million journeys were made on public transport, while 1.6 million people visited the city, bringing huge benefits to our businesses, hospitality sector, communities and wider economy.
"We now want to build on that success and make Fleadh 2027 bigger and better.
"We are starting those conversations, looking at what worked well this year and where we can improve. That means listening to our communities, businesses, hospitality sector, organisers and visitors to make sure we maximise the opportunities the Fleadh brings.
"We know that investing in the Fleadh can deliver a significant return for Belfast, and I am committed to building on the momentum of this year.
"Our ambition is to ensure the success of the Fleadh continues to be felt across
Béal Feirste, supporting local businesses, showcasing our hospitality offering and creating opportunities for communities to benefit.
"Fleadh 2026 has set a strong benchmark. Now our focus is on taking that success forward and making 2027 even bigger, better and more impactful for Belfast."
Economy Minister Caoimhe Archibald said: “Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2026 was a landmark event, celebrating Irish music, language and culture while delivering significant benefits for tourism, local businesses and communities.
“It’s demonstrated what can be achieved through strong partnership working and today was an opportunity to thank everyone who helped make the Fleadh such a success, learn from their experience and begin looking ahead to 2027.
“Our collective aim is to make next year’s Fleadh even bigger and better, and I am committed to working with our partners to build on this year’s tremendous success and maximise the benefits for our economy and communities.”
Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins added: “Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2026 showcased Belfast at its very best. It brought significant cultural, social and economic benefits, attracted visitors from across Ireland and beyond, and demonstrated what can be achieved when organisations work together towards a common goal.
“My Department was pleased to play its part in supporting the safe and efficient movement of people throughout the event. From delivering significant traffic management plans, including temporary pedestrianisation of the city centre, to the increased public transport services provided by Translink ensuring people got into the city and back home safely.
"The Fleadh will have a lasting legacy for Belfast and as the city once again prepares to host in 2027 we will now reflect on what worked well and identify if we can make any improvements to build on that success.”
