The Commons

The Duncairn's Big Breakfasts & Super Sundays The Duncairn's Big Breakfasts and Super Sundays are free, family-friendly community gatherings designed to bring people together through music, creativity, conversation and connection during Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2026. Taking place in communities across North, South, East and West Belfast, these welcoming events create opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to come together, share experiences and celebrate the rich cultural life of the city. A Fleadh for Everyone Inclusive, accessible and open to all, Big Breakfasts and Super Sundays are about more than entertainment. They provide spaces where communities can connect, build relationships and enjoy the spirit of the Fleadh in a relaxed and welcoming environment. Expect a mix of: Live music Creative activities Conversation and storytelling Family-friendly entertainment Community engagement Whether you're a lifelong traditional music enthusiast or simply looking for a welcoming place to spend time with family and friends, everyone is invited to take part. Celebrating Community By bringing people together in neighbourhoods throughout Belfast, these events reflect the shared spirit of the Fleadh and The Duncairn's commitment to inclusion, participation and community wellbeing. Free, welcoming and family-friendly gatherings celebrating music, creativity, culture and connection across Belfast.

South Belfast Musical Journey To celebrate the opening of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, musicians and music lovers will gather in South Belfast before setting off on a musical journey towards the heart of the city. Beginning at The Commons, Ormeau Road, the journey will make its way through the city with various stops along the route, as streets, parks and public spaces come alive with tunes, songs and conversation. Local musicians will lead a series of outdoor sessions, inviting people to join in and be part of this historic moment for Belfast. Whether you're carrying an instrument, singing a song or simply following the sound of the music, everyone is welcome.

Richard O'Leary: Stories We Carry Are storytellers born or nurtured? Or is it a gift from the fairies? Fourth-generation storyteller Richard O'Leary explores the stories, memories and treasured objects that connect us to those who came before us. Through storytelling and personal reflection, he asks what we hold on to when loved ones are gone, which stories survive, and who carries them forward. A thoughtful and engaging event celebrating the enduring power of story, memory and tradition. Note: Alcohol-free bar.

Belfast Hedge Poetry Collective Join the Belfast Hedge Poetry Collective for an evening of poetry, traditional music and storytelling as part of the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann Fringe Programme. Drawing inspiration from modern Belfast, ancient Ulster and everything in between, the collective will present a rich programme of original poetry alongside music and spoken word performances from members of the local community. The evening will explore themes of place, identity, history and contemporary life, celebrating the power of storytelling and creativity in all its forms. An evening of poetry, music and storytelling that connects the voices of Belfast's past and present.

Ríoghnach Connolly & Ellis Davies with Zoé Basha Please note: This is an alcohol-free venue. A very special double-header concert featuring Ríoghnach Connolly & Ellis Davies alongside Zoé Basha, bringing together folk, traditional and roots influences from across Ireland and beyond. Set within the intimate surroundings of The Commons, a unique new performance space emerging on Belfast's Ormeau Road, this special Fleadh Fringe event promises an evening of exceptional musicianship, powerful songs and captivating storytelling. Blending traditional influences with contemporary songwriting, the performers create music that is deeply rooted, emotionally resonant and rich in atmosphere. Event Information Tickets: £8 Tickets available at: https://theduncairn.com/fleadhfringe/connolly-davies-basha An intimate evening of folk, roots and traditional music in one of Belfast's newest cultural spaces.

Turning of the Season An Ambient Gathering with Rory Friers As the sun sets on 9 August, a unique five-hour ambient composition by Rory Friers will unfold within the atmospheric surroundings of Ballynafeigh Church. Woven throughout the evening with live contributions from musicians and creators, this special Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann Fringe event invites audiences into a contemplative space where music, sound and community come together. Rooted in seasonal traditions and inspired by the rhythms of the natural world, the performance creates an immersive environment for reflection, connection and shared experience. A Space to Gather & Listen Blending ambient composition with live musical interventions, the event evolves gradually over five hours, encouraging audiences to engage with the music at their own pace. As day turns to evening, Ballynafeigh Church becomes a place to pause, listen and mark the changing season together through sound and collective presence. A meditative and immersive musical experience celebrating community, creativity and the turning of the season.