The Waterworks

Musical Journey to the Fleadh To celebrate the opening of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, musicians, singers and music lovers will gather in North Belfast and South Belfast before setting off on a shared musical journey towards the heart of the city. As the groups make their way through Belfast, streets, parks and public spaces will come alive with traditional tunes, songs, storytelling and conversation, creating a vibrant moving celebration that reflects the spirit of the Fleadh and the city's rich musical heritage. Led by local musicians, a series of outdoor sessions will unfold along the route, inviting people of all ages and abilities to join in and become part of this historic occasion for Belfast. Join the Journey Whether you're: Carrying an instrument Singing a song Joining a session Walking alongside fellow music lovers Or simply following the sound of the music everyone is welcome to take part. This unique event offers an opportunity to experience traditional music where it belongs: shared among communities, passed between generations and enjoyed together in public spaces. A City United Through Music As participants converge on the city centre, the musical journey will symbolise the coming together of communities, traditions and cultures from across Belfast and beyond, marking the beginning of an unforgettable week of celebration. A moving celebration of music, community and participation as Belfast comes together to welcome Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann.

The Waterworks Stations Sessions Inspired by the historic "Stations" tradition, the Waterworks Stations Sessions will transform The Waterworks parkland into a wandering cultural promenade during Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann. Pontoons, pathways and lakeside benches will become intimate performance spaces, hosting a series of pop-up events set against the backdrop of Binn Mhadagáin (Cave Hill) and the park's natural landscape. Visitors are invited to wander through the park at their own pace, encountering storytellers, traditional musicians, poets and dancers along the way. A Tradition Reimagined The original Stations tradition emerged when secret Mass gatherings were followed by spontaneous celebrations of storytelling, music and dance within local communities. Drawing inspiration from this history while embracing contemporary interpretation and cultural diversity, the Waterworks Stations Sessions reimagine that spirit of gathering and celebration for a modern audience. Blending tradition, creativity and community, the event creates opportunities for unexpected encounters with music, performance and storytelling throughout the park. A unique outdoor journey of music, stories and shared cultural experiences in one of Belfast's most beautiful green spaces.