Council tasked with 'maximising' knock on effect of world's biggest Irish festival for Lisburn and Castlereagh
Lagan Valley is set to tap into the footfall of the world’s biggest celebration of Irish music and culture.
Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann will take place in Belfast in August 2026 with over 700k people expected to enjoy the festivities.
Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council’s (LCCC) recent regeneration and growth committee has now been tasked to “maximise the potential” knock-on effect for the district.
At the Lagan Valley chamber, Downshire East Alliance Alderman, Aaron McIntyre said: "I think that the council should be looking at the Fleadh that is coming to Belfast next year in 2026.
“There is expected to be over 700k people visiting Belfast over the period of the music festival next August for eight days.
“This is known as the world’s biggest celebration of Irish music and I think as a council we should be looking at how we can maximise that potential for this district in terms of the footfall that will be coming to Belfast and further afield.”
Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann will make history by coming to Belfast for the first next year.
Organised by Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann in partnership with Belfast City Council and Ards Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, the Belfast Fleadh will feature an eight-day programme of concerts, competitions, street performances and exhibitions.
A range of volunteering roles will be available including street ambassadors, team leaders and customer services. Volunteer Now, the leading voice of volunteering in Northern Ireland, has opened recruitment for the momentous event. A council officer responding to Cllr McIntyre said: "A report will be brought back to the committee.”