Féile an Phobail has launched its biggest ever programme for 2026 The Belfast festival will feature more than 700 events across the city from July. Organisers unveiled the expanded schedule which includes a wide range of cultural, community and tourism focused activities. The event continues to attract visitors from across Ireland and beyond.
Féile an Phobail has officially unveiled its largest-ever lineup for 2026, featuring over 700 events across more than 50 venues in Belfast. Running from 25 July to 9 August 2026, Ireland’s biggest community arts festival expects to attract over 120,000 visitors. The launch event took place at St Mary’s University College on the Falls Road, with addresses from First Minister Michelle O’Neill and Belfast Lord Mayor Róis Máire Donnelly.
This year’s festival holds massive cultural significance as it coincides directly with Belfast hosting Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2026 (2–9 August), promising an unprecedented summer celebration of Irish music, arts, and culture across the city. Highlights include:
- Massive Concerts: High-energy music events including the annual headline shows at Falls Park, Country Fest, and the highly anticipated 80s/90s night.
- Debates and Discussions: Over 90 talks and political debates hosted at St Mary’s University College, including the Tom Hartley Lecture Series and high-profile speakers like Nicola Sturgeon in conversation.
- The Féile Trad Trail: Traditional Irish music workshops and free live sessions moving throughout the city centre and West Belfast.
- Community and Culture: Over 50 pages added to the official programme guide, packed with visual art exhibitions, literary events, drama, tours of West Belfast, and Irish language gatherings.
- Sporting Events: Family-focused athletic activities alongside the signature Féile 10k race.
- Spirit of Féile Award: The 2026 award was proudly presented toRaied Al-Wazzan in recognition of his multi-year anti-racism advocacy in the city.
Practical Information
- Full Programme: You can download and browse the complete schedule directly via the Féile Belfast Official Website.
- Tickets: Tickets for primary concerts and major headline performances are available to buy online through Ticketmaster Ireland. Organizers have urged immediate booking as ticket sales are moving at record speeds.
- Travel and Transport: Translink is operating enhanced bus, Metro, and Glider services throughout early August to easily facilitate the high volume of local and international festivalgoers.
The programme builds on the festival’s reputation as one of Ireland’s major cultural gatherings. It supports Belfast’s visitor economy during the peak summer period. Details of performances, exhibitions and community events are now available.
