Frequently Asked Questions
Got questions about the Fleadh? You’re in the right place. Whether it’s your first time joining or you’re a seasoned festival-goer, we’ve gathered the most commonly asked questions to help you plan your visit.
What are the dates for the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2026?
The 2026 All Ireland Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann will take place in Belfast between Sunday 2 – Sunday 9 August 2026.
Getting Here
Travelling to Belfast for the Fleadh is straightforward, with several options available.
Accommodation
Where can I find places to stay?
Belfast has a fantastic choice of hotels, B&B’s and registered accommodation providers including hostels, serviced accommodation and student accommodation.
All major Belfast hotels within 5-10 minutes walking distance from the city centre. The wide range of guest accommodation will cover all tastes and budgets. You’ll find a selection of big international brands offering spacious bedrooms plus bars and restaurants, gyms and spas. There’s also an array of locally renowned hotels, guesthouses, B&Bs, student accommodation, hostels and one-off, unmissable venues.
Bookings can be made directly with the properties using their websites or via third party online platforms such as booking.com, Expedia and Airbnb.
In Northern Ireland all tourist accommodation must be registered and certified by Tourism Northern Ireland (TNI).
View a list of accommodation options here
Visit Belfast Welcome Centre
Conveniently located in the centre of town, opposite City Hall, the Visit Belfast Welcome Centre is open daily to assist with all your visitor needs. Our friendly and expert staff can provide literature and maps, assist with itinerary planning across Belfast and Northern Ireland, tour and event ticket sales as well as transport information and ticket sales. Free Wi-Fi left luggage facilities, and a gift shop promoting local produce are just a few more reasons to visit. Pop in and see us for all your tourist information needs.
We also operate tourist information desks at Belfast’s Grand Central Station and Belfast International Airport (arrivals area), providing tourist information for Belfast and the rest of Northern Ireland.
Be sure to ask staff about the Belfast Visitor Pass. This 1-, 2- or 3-day transport pass extends a range of offers and discounts across attractions, tours, restaurants, cafes and shop making it excellent value for money.
Locations
Where exactly is everything happening?
Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, Ards CCE and Belfast City Council are working through the footprint of the Belfast Fleadh in consultation with the relevant statutory authorities. Keep an eye on where all information and updates will be published later this year.
A map detailing the Fleadh venues, gig rig, key sites, park and ride facilities, bus routes etc will be shared in due course.
Tickets for Fleadh Events
Similarly, a full fringe programme of events will be communicated, along with ticketing / purchasing and price information in the months ahead.
Rest assured you are in for a treat.
Irish language
Today the Irish language in Belfast is undergoing a significant community-based revival and the Irish medium sector is the fastest growing education sector in the city. The Belfast Gaeltacht Quarter is an area covering three square miles and contains an abundance of Irish language facilities and services, the majority of which were established in the last 20 years. The Turas project in East Belfast welcomes 100’s of learners each year.
Culturlann McAdam Ó Fiaich, an Irish language cultural centre on the Falls Road, within the Gaeltacht Quarter, is the primary Irish speaking centre in the city.
The location of the Seomra na Gaeilge in Belfast will be centrally located, more detail to follow.
Extend your Stay
What is there to see and do in Belfast?
Belfast is an incredible city with so much to offer, whether you’re a history buff, culture, lover, or nature enthusiast. Here’s a taste of the extensive range of things to do but for more inspiration please to go to visitbelfast.com:
- Titanic Belfast – Explore the birthplace of the Titanic at this world-class museum. It’s packed with interactive exhibits about the ship’s design, it’s tragic fate, and Belfast’s shipbuilding heritage. Not forgetting the SS Nomadic, the last surviving White Star Line vessel, which was a tender for the Titanic. Ticket entry to Titanic Belfast includes a visit to the Nomadic.
- Political Murals & Peace Walls – Take a guided tour of the city’s famous political murals, which tell the stories of Northern Ireland’s complex political past. The Peace Walls still stand as a reminder of the divisions, and it’s fascinating to learn about this history.
- Belfast City Hall – A stunning landmark, this grand building is both a beautiful spot to visit and a historic symbol of the city’s growth. Guided tours of the building and interactive exhibition are available to help you delve into its rich history.
- George’s Market – This vibrant market is full of local produce, handmade crafts, and live music, offering a perfect chance to sample some delicious local food and mingle with locals.
- Cave Hill – If you enjoy a good hike, take a trip up Cave Hill for panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside. The hill is also said to have inspired Jonathan Swift’s “Gulliver’s Travels.”
- Ulster Museum – A must-see for art and history lovers, this museum houses everything from ancient fossils to contemporary art and a fascinating exhibit on Irish history.
- Botanic Gardens & Palm House – This park is a peaceful escape in the heart of the city, complete with beautiful glasshouses and a wide range of plant species.
- Crumlin Road Gaol – Take a tour of this historic prison, which closed in 1996. It’s a chilling experience where you can learn about its past, including stories of political prisoners.
- Black Taxi Tour – For a deeper dive into the political and social history of Belfast, a black taxi tour is a great way to see the murals and hear personal stories from drivers with a lived perspective.
- Maritime Mile – Beyond the Titanic Belfast museum, you can also stroll along Belfast’s waterfront area, The Maritime Mile, and take in the various interpretation panels, art installations and attractions including W5, The SSE Arena, HMS Caroline Titanic Distillery, Sinclair Seamens Church and the new City Quay Gardens, to name a few.
- Hop On Hop Off Bus Tours are a great way to get an overview of things to see and do in Belfast. Tickets for one and 2 days are available as are combination tickets to explore The Giants Causeway.
- City Areas Tourism – each part of our city, North, South, East and West contains off the beaten track tourism gems.
Would you believe that’s just scratching the surface! Whether you’re into history, nature, shopping, or culture, there’s so much to experience in Belfast. Oh, and did we mention that Belfast is a UNESCO City of Music, even before The Fleadh comes to town?
Belfast is an absolute treat for music lovers, with a vibrant scene that spans from live gigs in intimate venues to rich musical history.
- The Oh Yeah Music Centre – This hub for Northern Ireland’s music scene is a must-visit. With live performances, workshops, and exhibitions on the history of local music, it’s a great way to dive into Belfast’s rich musical heritage. Plus, they often host up-and-coming bands, so you can catch fresh talent!
- George’s Market – The market is a lively place with more than just fresh food; it also offers live music performances, from local folk bands to jazz musicians. A perfect spot for a bit of shopping and listening to some live tunes.
- Cave Hill – If you like a musical backdrop, consider hiking up Cave Hill while listening to some local Northern Irish artists—it’s a great mix of nature and music. Plus, you can take in panoramic views of the city that inspired some of Belfast’s top musical acts.
- The Empire Music Hall – One of Belfast’s best live venues, The Empire hosts a variety of acts, from acoustic sessions to big-name international bands. Whether you’re into rock, folk, or indie, there’s always something on here.
- The Limelight – This is one of Belfast’s most famous live venues. It regularly features local and international bands, from up-and-coming indie groups to legendary rock acts. A great place to catch the pulse of the city’s live music scene.
- Ulster Hall – A beautiful, historic venue that has seen performances by major artists like Van Morrison and The Rolling Stones. Whether you’re into classical, rock, or jazz, there’s always something happening here.
- Belfast Music Walking Tour – Explore the city’s musical roots with a guided walking tour, where you’ll hear about the legendary artists from Belfast, like Van Morrison, The Undertones, and Snow Patrol. It’s a fascinating look at the city’s contribution to the world of music.
- Belfast’s Vinyl Shops – For music collectors, Belfast has a growing scene of independent record stores. You can hunt for vintage vinyl at shops like The Record Store, which has a great selection of local and international music.
- The Black Box – A cool, artsy venue that hosts everything from avant-garde performances to indie music shows. It’s perfect for those who want to catch something a bit offbeat and experimental.
- Duncairn Arts Centre – located on North Belfast’s Antrim Road, this venue specialises in intimate and authentic Belfast performance experiences.
- Cultúrlann McAdam Ó Fiaich in the heart of West Belfast’s Gaeltacht area is a vibrant Irish language and cultural centre and home to some of the best traditional music and dance performacnes the city has to offer.
Whether you’re into live gigs, iconic spots tied to legendary artists, or just want to explore Belfast’s music scene in a relaxed way, there’s a lot to take in.
What is there to see and do outside of Belfast?
Northern Ireland is packed with stunning natural landscapes, coastlines historic sites plus charming towns and villages. You’ll find lots of inspirational content with top tips for things to see and do on www.discovernorthernireland.com
When in Belfast for the Fleadh 26, we recommend you travel the short distance to the home of Ards Comhaltas. The Strangford Peninsula is one of our many hidden gems. This region punches well above its weight in terms of scenic beauty. Natural landscapes and seascapes are to be found around every corner of the winding 115-mile (185 km) coastline. Go explore – we know you’ll love it.
https://www.visitardsandnorthdown.com/
Coach Parking
For anyone considering offering private coach hire for travel to Belfast we can offer secure overnight coach parking facilities. For full details go to
https://visitbelfastpartners.com/travel-trade/coach-parking/
General Information
Is Belfast safe to visit?
Belfast is one of the safest cities in Europe, and Northern Ireland has the second lowest crime rate in Europe.
However, it is always wise to be sensible and follow general safety tips such as leaving money and valuables in a safe place and locking valuables out of sight.
Whilst a safe and welcoming city for visitors, like any major urban area, it’s wise to stay aware of your surroundings, but overall, Belfast offers a friendly atmosphere, low crime levels in tourist areas, and a strong sense of community. The city has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent decades and is now known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re exploring historic landmarks, enjoying the local food scene, or attending events, visitors consistently find Belfast to be a safe and enjoyable destination.
Will I be able to use Euro in Northern Ireland?
Northern Ireland uses the pound sterling (£), the same currency in circulation in England, Scotland and Wales, whereas the Republic of Ireland uses the Euro (€). Euros are not legal tender in Northern Ireland.
Mastercard / Visa credit and debit cards, including contactless payments, are in general use.
Cards such as Revolut and Monzo provide the best exchange rates and fee-free withdrawals anywhere in the world (though set up charges may apply).
Many banking apps have facilities to set up a travel account allowing money to be transferred between accounts. If using a travel account always pay in the local currency.
Some large stores may accept Euro currency, but they are under no obligation to do so, will often offer less favourable exchange rates and provide change in pounds.
Will my southern reg car be safe in Belfast?
If you’re travelling from the Republic of Ireland for the first time, to attend the Fleadh in Belfast, you’re very welcome. We want to reassure you that cars with southern Irish registrations are a common sight in the city and throughout Northern Ireland.
Belfast is a vibrant and welcoming place, especially during major events, and visitors from the South are warmly received. Southern-registered vehicles generally do not attract any special attention, and the vast majority of visits are safe and enjoyable.
As with any city, we recommend following standard precautions: park in well-lit, secure areas and avoid leaving valuables in your vehicle. But rest assured, it’s perfectly normal — and safe — to drive and park a southern-registered car in Belfast.
Further information about official car parking locations, park and rides, city centre car parks will be made available in the next few months.
We look forward to welcoming you to our city. The craic will be mighty.
Do I need extra car insurance if I bring my vehicle to Northern Ireland?
You should always carry a valid driver’s licence and proof of vehicle insurance when you drive. Additional insurance is generally not required if travelling from The Republic of Ireland but please check with your insurer.
Remember that speed and distance traffic information is in miles per hour rather than kilometres once you cross the border. Please adjust your speed accordingly.
Further information can be found here: Driving in Northern Ireland – Discover Northern Ireland
Is Belfast a good place for shopping?
Belfast offers a range of excellent shopping experiences, blending modern retail with local culture. For those seeking high-end fashion and designer labels, Victoria Square is a must-visit. This sleek, glass-domed shopping centre houses a variety of luxury retailers, alongside casual shops, restaurants, and a stunning view of the city from its rooftop.
For those who love high street shopping, CastleCourt and Belfast’s shopping district are home to popular UK and international retailers. Plus, the growing Cathedral Quarter is a vibrant area with trendy shops, galleries, and cafes, perfect for browsing and relaxing.
For a more eclectic and independent vibe, head to Donegall Place, where you’ll find a mix of both well-known and local stores. Queens Arcade, located nearby, is a charming historic space filled with luxury and high-end shopping experiences as well as specialty goods.
If you’re a fan of local crafts and artisanal goods, St. George’s Market is perfect. This covered Victorian market is open on weekends and offers everything from fresh produce to handmade jewellery, local art, and vintage items. It’s a fantastic place to pick up a souvenir that reflects Belfast’s artistic spirit. Similarly, a trip to our neighbourhoods is recommended to experience The North Block Bazaar and East Block Bazaar on the first and last Sundays respectively of each month
Overall, whether you’re after luxury, local crafts, or high-street brands, Belfast’s shopping scene offers something for every taste.
Many shops in Belfast City Centre open Monday – Saturday 9am – 6pm, with late night opening to 9pm on Thursdays. Victoria Square is also open to 9pm on Fridays. Currently Sunday trading is 1- 6pm, though smaller shops can open earlier.
The award-winning St George’s Market is open Friday (8am – 2pm), Saturday (9am – 3pm) and Sunday (10am – 3pm).
Is it necessary to tip in restaurants?
There are no hard and fast rules for tipping in Northern Ireland. If you are happy with the service, a 10% tip is suggested, particularly in a restaurant or café with table service. A tip is not necessary if a service charge has been added to the bill by the establishment
Religious Services
Roman Catholic
St. Patrick’s Church
199 Donegall St, Belfast
(028) 9032 4597
https://www.stpatricksbelfast.org/times/
St. Mary’s Church Belfast
Chapel Lane, Belfast
(028) 9032 0482
http://www.stmarysbelfast.org/mass-times/
St. Peter’s Cathedral
St. Peters Square
Falls Road, Belfast
(028) 9032 7573
https://www.stpetersbelfast.ie/mass-times
Saint Malachy’s Church
Alfred Street, Belfast
(028) 9032 1713
https://saintmalachysparish.com/services.html
Church of Ireland/Anglican
Belfast Cathedral
Donegall Street
https://www.belfastcathedral.org/worship-at-belfast-cathedral
St. Georges Parish Church
High St, Belfast
(028) 9023 1275
https://stgeorgesbelfast.com/worship
Presbyterian
Rosemary Street First Presbyterian Church (Non-Subscribing)
Rosemary St, Belfast
https://www.firstchurchbelfast.org.uk/
Baptist
Great Victoria Street Baptist Church
66a Great Victoria St, Belfast
https://gtvicbaptist.com/calendar/
Methodist
Donegall Road Methodist Church Complex
381 Donegall Road, Belfast
Emergency Services
Emergency services, if needed, can be contacted by dialling 999 (you will be asked to state which emergency service is required), or non-emergencies can be reported to the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) by calling 101.
If you are visiting Belfast from the Republic of Ireland, or further afield, and require medical treatment please refer to below for further information:
https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/health-services-visitors-northern-ireland
Volunteering opportunities
Volunteer Now are managing volunteering opportunities for the Fleadh in Belfast. If interested, you can complete an Expression of Interest form now:
- Sign up to the events database at volunteernow.co.uk/event-volunteering
- Email events@volunteernow.co.uk
- Tel: 028 9023 2020
Volunteers will receive training including event specific training and safeguarding.
There will be further communication with volunteers in the run-up to and during the event.
Area Telephone Codes
To call The North / Northern Ireland from the Republic of Ireland dial 048 + area code (without 0) + local number. To call the Republic of Ireland from Northern Ireland, dial 00353 + area code (without 0) + local number.
Electronic Travel Authorisations (ETAs)
Irish citizens do not need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).
Legal residents of Ireland, from a nationality that does not usually need a visa to visit the UK (e.g. European and US nationals), do not need an ETA when travelling within the Common Travel Area (CTA), if they can show proof of legal residency. Full guidance can be found at Click Here
Should you require an ETA the process is quick and simple. The easiest way to apply for an ETA is through the ‘UK ETA app’, which can be downloaded from the Google Play or Apple App Store.
Should you need an ETA you can also apply using this link.
Get an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) to visit the UK: Overview – GOV.UK
Access and Inclusion
Belfast has made significant strides in recent years towards becoming a more accessible and inclusive city for visitors with a range of needs. The city centre and major attractions are welcoming and well equipped for a wide range of needs. Be assured that Belfast has a dedicated action plan that will map event hubs across the city and improve access or make reasonable adjustments to on-site facilities such as toilets, changing facilities (including adult changing), mobility aids, seated rest spaces, quiet rooms, kerb ramps and parking information for attendees with access needs.
In the months ahead this information will be published. Accessibility and inclusivity is at the forefront of the city’s plans when hosting The Fleadh in 2026.
Sustainability
How Belfast is enhancing sustainable practices in the run-up and during Fleadh:
Our city is compact and the majority of Fleadh venues are within close range. A Sustainability Action Plan is under development, with a focus on enhancing the sustainability of our Fleadh venues, suppliers, transport and programme.
We will engage food and drink suppliers who demonstrate strong sustainable practices, including the provision of locally-sourced ingredients, vegan and vegetarian menu options and biodegradable cutlery.
We have a commitment to reduce waste and promote recycling at all sites. The use of single-use plastics will be minimised, with reusable, repurposed and PVC free materials to be prioritised in the production of all promotional and signage resources.
The use of reusable drinks bottles and hot beverage cups will be encouraged with refreshment refill stations.
We will encourage environmentally sustainable travel practices including the use of public transport, Belfast Bikes and active travel.
75% of hotel rooms in Belfast have Green Tourism accreditation. A Sustainability Charter will be distributed to encourage visitors and participants to take efforts to minimise their carbon footprint at the Fleadh and beyond.
Sponsorship and Business Opportunities
Further information will be published in the months ahead.
Will there be opportunities for traders and stall holders?
More information to follow on arrangements for Fleadh in Belfast but in the meantime you can find out more about general Street Trading Street trading licence | Belfast City Council licences and permits