Catherine Doyle

Belfast TradFest returns for its eighth year with almost 600 events, 1,000 artists and activities across 40 venues. The festival opens on Sunday with a free céilí at Titanic Slipways expected to attract more than 10,000 people, followed by concerts, pub sessions, masterclasses, talks, screenings, walking tours and family events through 2 August. Roads will remain open, and the programme includes performances by the Michael McGoldrick Big Band, Cherish the Ladies and Solas. The All-Ireland Fleadh then begins in Belfast on the same day TradFest ends, with organisers expecting about 800,000 visitors.

Belfast TradFest 2026 is set to bring nearly 600 events, 1,000 artists and thousands of visitors to 40 venues across Belfast during a week celebrating traditional music, song and dance. The festival opens with a free céilí at Titanic Slipways expected to attract more than 10,000 people, alongside concerts, pub sessions, masterclasses, family activities, talks and walking tours. Featured performers include the Michael McGoldrick Big Band, Cherish the Ladies and Solas. Roads will remain open, and the festival will be followed immediately by Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, which is expected to draw 800,000 visitors to the city.

The annual Sham Fight at Scarva in County Down again reenacted the 1690 clash between William III and James II, drawing thousands of spectators. Hosted by the Royal Black Institution and held a day later than usual due to the Twelfth falling on a Sunday, the event featured the traditional mock battle alongside family activities, funfair rides and food stalls. Attendees highlighted the pageantry, history and festive atmosphere that mark the longstanding 13 July tradition in Northern Ireland.