Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has attended a reception hosted by President of Ireland Catherine Connolly to mark the countdown to Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2026, which is due to take place in Belfast next month.
The reception was held for Comhaltas and brought together key partners and stakeholders involved in delivering the event. The Department for the Economy said the gathering marked preparations for the major traditional music and cultural festival as Belfast gets ready to host visitors from across Ireland and further afield.
Dr Archibald highlighted what she described as the major economic, tourism and cultural benefits expected from the Fleadh for Belfast and the wider north. The department said more than 700,000 visitors are expected, presenting an opportunity to support tourism, local businesses and the city’s wider profile.
The minister said the event would bring significant economic benefits while also creating a lasting legacy by encouraging greater participation in traditional music, culture, language and the arts. Her comments placed the Belfast staging of the Fleadh as both a visitor event and a wider cultural occasion for local communities.
Dr Archibald also acknowledged the organisations and groups involved in preparing for the festival. She thanked Comhaltas, Belfast City Council, Ards CCE, Tourism NI, partner organisations, volunteers and local communities for their work in making the event possible.
Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2026 will be held in Belfast next month. The reception hosted by President Connolly formed part of the build-up to the event, with public bodies, cultural organisations and community representatives involved in delivery among those recognised by the minister.