The 2026-27 Irish Premiership season begins at Solitude on Friday night with a north Belfast derby between Cliftonville and Crusaders. The 7.45pm fixture is the first of six opening-weekend matches and gives the new campaign an immediate city rivalry.
Saturday's programme sends Coleraine to Dungannon Swifts in a repeat of last season's Irish Cup final, while Linfield host Ballymena United at Windsor Park. Carrick Rangers face Portadown and newly promoted Limavady United travel to Glentoran at the Oval.
Champions Larne start their title defence on Sunday afternoon when Bangor visit Inver Park. The league will again run for 33 rounds before splitting, with each club then playing five further matches. The final day is scheduled for April 24, 2027.
The opening weekend also introduces several changed touchline and squad arrangements. NIFL's fixture announcement highlighted David Jeffrey's return to management with Portadown and Limavady's promotion to the top division, while established contenders begin the task of closing the gap to Larne.
Fixtures remain subject to change for television selection and clubs' European commitments. For supporters attending the first game, however, the starting point is settled: Solitude under the Friday-night lights, followed by a full Saturday card and the champions' home opener on Sunday.