Council support helps bring major Irish dancing championships to Lisburn
Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council (LCCC) is supporting a major celebration of world-class Irish dancing in Lisburn with funding from its Tourism Major Events Grant Scheme.
The council’s support will see the prestigious All Ireland & International Irish Dancing Championships 2026 take place at the Eikon Centre from July 23 to Sunday July 26, 2026.
The Championships will provide dancers aged nine through to adult level with the opportunity to compete across solo and team competitions. Competitors, teachers, families and supporters are expected to travel from across Ulster, Leinster, Connaught, Munster, Scotland, England, mainland Europe and the USA, bringing a vibrant celebration of Irish dance to the city.
The Tourism Major Events Grant Scheme is designed to support events that attract visitors and participants to the Lisburn & Castlereagh area, generate positive publicity and strengthen the city’s profile as a welcoming visitor destination.
Alderman James Baird, Chair of LCCC’s Regeneration and Growth Committee, said: “Hosting the All Ireland & International Irish Dancing Championships 2026 is a significant opportunity for Lisburn and Castlereagh.
"The event will bring together outstanding dancers, teachers, families and supporters from across Ireland and beyond, creating a welcome boost for local businesses and showcasing our area as a strong destination for major cultural events.
“We look forward to welcoming everyone to the Eikon Centre for what promises to be a memorable four days of competition and celebration.”
The Championships will add to Lisburn and Castlereagh’s growing programme of high-profile cultural, sporting and visitor events, supporting the council’s ambition to increase tourism activity and economic benefit across the area.