News Story

The summer Feile an Phobail festival in west Belfast is to receive a 13% funding boost.

Tourism Northern Ireland will support the uplift to the 2026 event, which runs from July 24 to August 9 and will feature more than 600 events including concerts, debates, art exhibitions, sports activities and comedy nights.

This year the festival will cross over with the Fleadh, an Irish traditional music festival set to be held in Belfast for the first time, which is expected to attract 800,000 visitors.

The Feile is one of 16 events which have been offered funding under the International Tourism Events Fund 2026-27.

Siobhan McGuigan, head of events at Tourism Northern Ireland, said the Feile is “part of an impressive programme of festivals and events taking place this summer”.

“The festival continues to evolve in scale and ambition, playing an important role in showcasing Belfast and Northern Ireland as a vibrant and varied cultural destination which attracts international visitors,” she said.

Economy Minister Caoimhe Archibald described Feile as “a key driver of tourism and economic activity”.

“It offers visitors an authentic experience of our music, arts, and community spirit, while also encouraging them to explore everything our region has to offer,” she said.

“With thousands of visitors expected to come to the city, the exciting Feile programme will encourage visitors to extend their stay and explore more and will build the excitement for us hosting the Fleadh Cheoil na hEireann.”

Ms Archibald added: “It is shaping up to be an exciting summer.

“Many of those attending the August Feile and Fleadh Cheoil na hEireann are expected to explore beyond Belfast, enjoying our stunning landscapes, rich heritage, renowned food and drink, high-quality accommodation, and visitor attractions.”

Kevin Gamble, director of Feile an Phobail, said the investment will help the festival “continue to grow as one of Ireland’s leading community arts and cultural festivals, attracting even more visitors from across Ireland, Britain and further afield to Belfast and the Gaeltacht Quarter”.

He added: “Each year Feile offers a fantastic and diverse programme of events from world-class music and entertainment, debates and discussions, traditional sessions, family activities and cultural experiences showcasing the very best of Belfast’s creativity, culture and community spirit.

“We know visitors are increasingly seeking authentic cultural experiences and Feile provides exactly that, alongside the famous cead mile failte that awaits everyone who comes to enjoy the festival.”