2 Royal Avenue

The Light of Other Days Photographs by Jim Maginn The Light of Other Days is a deeply personal photographic archive celebrating the people, places and traditions at the heart of Irish traditional music. Originally from Lurgan and resident in Belfast for over forty years, Jim Maginn has spent decades documenting the traditional music community through his camera lens. Inspired and mentored by the acclaimed photographer Victor Sloan, Jim developed a distinctive documentary style rooted in observation, patience and a profound appreciation for the culture he was recording. Working in the tradition of documentary portraiture and pursuing what Henri Cartier-Bresson famously described as "the decisive moment", Jim's photographs capture far more than performances. They reveal character, connection and the quiet humanity that exists behind the music. The collection features intimate portraits of both celebrated figures and unsung heroes of the traditional music world. Many of those pictured have since passed on, making these images not only works of art, but important cultural documents preserving moments, personalities and stories that might otherwise have been lost to time. An Exhibition for Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann Presented as part of the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann fringe programme, The Light of Other Days offers a rare opportunity to explore a carefully curated selection of Jim Maginn's most iconic photographs. Together, these images form a visual celebration of Ireland's rich musical heritage, honouring the musicians, singers and tradition bearers whose passion continues to shape the cultural landscape of Ireland today. A remarkable photographic journey through the faces, moments and memories that define Irish traditional music.

Tour Guides NI is proud to present its Official Fleadh walking tour of Belfast – "The Belfast Way". Join our professionally qualified guides as we take you through the streets of Belfast. Discover how Belfast got its name down at the River Lagan. Learn how a small 16th Century settlement became a 'Powerhouse' of the British Empire by the late 19th Century. Hear the fascinating stories of some of its famous sons and daughters and see some of its beautifully Built Heritage, including the historic building that hosted the famous Belfast Harp Festival of 1792.And we haven't forgotten the little ones. They get to have an unforgettable adventure completing their interactive treasure map – a personalised souvenir they can bring home to remember their trip. The tours are led by experienced, friendly and professionally qualified and insured TGNI Guides using a State-of-the -art radio system to ensure every word and story is heard.

This Session Space has a mix of family friendly workshops, arts activities and of course, music. There'll be music from the next generation of Trad musicians, with Electric Reels and and the Children's Trad seisiún hosted by Glengormley School of Traditional Music and performances from the Four Corners Flute Orchaestra and Alzheimer's Society Singing for the Brain. Visitors can send themselves a Postard from Belfast, add memories to artist James Ashes' illustrations of city landmarks. Belfast City Council's Environmental Outreach team will be hosting workshops on making instruments from scrap materials, bringing sustainability to creativity. And the Seanchaí will be roaming the streets, a street theatre storyteller carrying Ireland's myths and songs. Full details below. This space is also open for sessions when not programmed.

Young Musicians' Seisiúns Hosted by Glengormley School of Traditional Music The Glengormley School of Traditional Music is delighted to host daily traditional music seisiúns for young musicians throughout the week of the All-Ireland Fleadh Cheoil. Whether you are a young musician from Belfast or a visitor travelling to the city for the Fleadh, come along and join us for a safe, welcoming and inclusive space to meet fellow musicians, make new friends and play some tunes. Each seisiún will be led and supervised by experienced traditional musicians from GSOTM, guaranteeing a warm Belfast welcome and plenty of ceol agus craic. All Young Traditional Musicians Welcome Just bring your instrument and your enthusiasm! Meet fellow musicians, make new friends, and enjoy a week of traditional music in the heart of Belfast.

Join Anann's Arch for Scéal sa Spéir, a colourful intergenerational workshop celebrating creativity, storytelling and togetherness. Young people and grown-ups will work side-by-side to design and create their own unique pieces of storytelling bunting using fabric, ribbons, recycled materials, natural textures, drawing, print, and simple stitching techniques. Inspired by Irish heritage, music, family traditions, local landscapes, and shared memories, each flag becomes a small artwork expressing identity, belonging, and celebration. Together, the individual pieces will form a vibrant collective installation full of colour, movement, and community spirit — a joyful visual tapestry dancing in the air throughout the Fleadh.

The Brady Family The Brady family from Antrim are a family of seven siblings deeply rooted in the tradition of Irish music. Growing up immersed in music, they have played as part of their local Comhaltas group, attended Fleadhanna across Ireland and performed at music festivals throughout the country. Their passion for Irish music has also taken them beyond Ireland's shores, sharing their heritage with audiences around the world. Each member of the family brings their own unique flair, contributing to a rich tapestry of sounds that includes guitar, harp, fiddle, concertina, uilleann pipes, flute, whistle, bodhrán and vocals. Alongside performing, the Brady family is passionate about passing on their love of Irish music, teaching the next generation in Belfast and helping to nurture the local community's musical spirit. Keeping the Tradition Alive From intimate pub sessions and lively weddings to traditional events and community gatherings, the Brady family is dedicated to creating memorable musical experiences that celebrate the heart of Irish culture. A family united by music, tradition and a shared passion for Irish cultural heritage.

Join Ceathrú Cheoil na bhFál to discover the fascinating story of two iconic drums: the Lambeg and the bodhrán, where rhythm becomes a bridge between cultures. Participants will explore how these instruments share deep roots in tradition, craftsmanship and community identity, yet express strikingly different musical voices and cultural symbolism. Through guided demonstrations, hands-on rhythm exercises and open conversation, the workshop highlights how drums can both unite and distinguish cultural heritage. An engaging and thought-provoking experience celebrating diversity, shared history and the power of music to foster understanding across traditions.

The Cathcart/Dolan Family Recital Representing the rich musical traditions of County Fermanagh and County Tyrone, the Cathcart/Dolan family are deeply rooted in the song and music heritage of the region. This family recital brings together generations of musicians connected through family, tradition and a shared love of Irish music, offering a heartfelt celebration of the living musical traditions of Fermanagh and Tyrone. At the centre of the family's musical legacy is veteran Kinawley fiddler John Cathcart, whose playing was shaped by Derrylin fiddler Paddy Gunn and the music of Dinny Leonard. A former member of the St Joseph's Céilí Band, John has been an important influence on traditional music in the area and on his family's own musical journey. A Family Tradition in Music His daughters, Aoife Cathcart and Eimear Dolan, are both accomplished singers and musicians with extensive Fleadh and broadcast experience. Eimear is joined by her husband, acclaimed Tyrone accordion player Seán Dolan, while Seán's brother Ronan Dolan contributes flute and rhythmic accompaniment. Together, they present a rich programme of music and song that reflects the traditions, influences and stories passed down through generations. A celebration of family, heritage and the enduring musical traditions of Fermanagh and Tyrone.