Enhanced train and bus services to and from Belfast for the All Ireland Fleadh 2026, says Translink
As the countdown begins to the All Ireland Fleadh which is in Belfast for the first time, visitors will be glad to know of enhanced public transport services.
Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2026 is the world’s largest celebration of traditional Irish music, song, language, and dance and has been an annual event, taking place in various locations across Ireland for 75 years.
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This year more than 800k visitors are expected to flock to the event which is taking place in Belfast from Sunday 2 August to Sunday 9 August 2026.
There will be more almost 5k competitors in more than 200 competitions during that week.
The Fleadh will transform Belfast into a city-wide stage, with 200+ events planned across venues and local neighbourhoods, spanning music, dance and cultural activity, as well as All-Ireland competitions and concerts. Inclusive programming and cross-community participation will be central, with a focus on family events, accessible events and showcasing the city’s many musical stories
The event is expected to deliver a significant boost to Belfast’s economy, supporting local businesses, hospitality and tourism during one of the busiest weeks the city has experienced..
Thousands have already booked hotels, guest accommodation and bed and breakfasts with many locals putting people up in their own homes.
Many will be travelling from all over Ireland to the event and Translink has reacted by adding extra services that week.
There will be an enhanced train timetable to and from Belfast as well as Ulsterbus, Metro and Glider services across the city.
A Translink spokesperson said: “We are looking forward to welcoming thousands of additional visitors to the Fleadh as well as ensuring we meet the needs of our regular customers.
"We're encouraging everyone to plan ahead, leave extra time for journeys and visit Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann | Translink for details on services and good value tickets available.
"Ulsterbus, Metro and Glider services will be operating during the event with capacity and frequency enhancements as well as minor alterations to some bus stops and pick-up points. NI Railways will also operate a revised timetable with enhanced capacity, designed to meet the needs of both Fleadh visitors and regular customers.
“Special Belfast City Council Park and Ride facilities will be located at the Eikon Exhibition Centre (close to the M1), Giant’s Park (close to M2) and Belfast Harbour (near the M3) with pre-booking strongly advised,” said the Translink spokesperson.
Labhrás Ó Murchú, Ardstiúrthóir of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann said: “This is a milestone year for Comhaltas as we celebrate 75 years of promoting, developing and preserving our rich cultural heritage for future generations.
“From the very beginning, Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann has been at the heart of our mission to connect communities through a shared love of our culture. “As Belfast prepares to host visitors from across Ireland and around the world, we look forward to a week that will showcase the very best of traditional music, song and dance, while creating new friendships, lasting memories and a warm welcome for everyone who attends.”
If you would like to know more about Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann you can check out their website here for all information about competitions to accommodation to events and much more.