The full festival programme

Cherish the Ladies Following their sold-out and critically acclaimed appearance at Belfast TradFest 2024, the legendary Cherish the Ladies return to Belfast for what promises to be another unforgettable afternoon of world-class traditional music, song and entertainment. For more than four decades, Cherish the Ladies have stood at the forefront of Irish traditional music, captivating audiences across the globe with their extraordinary musicianship, infectious energy and warm, engaging stage presence. Led by the incomparable Joanie Madden, born in the Bronx to Irish parents, the group has become one of the most celebrated and influential ensembles in the history of Irish music. Four Decades of Excellence Renowned for their virtuosic instrumental performances, beautiful vocals, dazzling step dancing and quick-witted storytelling, Cherish the Ladies have built an international reputation as one of the finest live acts in traditional music. Their concerts are celebrated not only for their exceptional musical standards but also for the joy, humour and connection they create with audiences wherever they perform. Drawing on the rich traditions of Ireland while embracing influences from America and beyond, the group continues to evolve while remaining deeply rooted in the spirit and authenticity of traditional music. An Unmissable Live Experience This special concert offers another opportunity to experience a truly iconic ensemble whose performances continue to inspire audiences around the world. Expect soaring tunes, beautiful songs, spontaneous laughter and unforgettable moments as Cherish the Ladies bring their unique blend of artistry, warmth and entertainment to Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2026. One of the most beloved and influential groups in Irish traditional music returns for an uplifting celebration of music, song, dance and storytelling.

Titanic Slipways Céilí Celebrate the opening weekend of Belfast TradFest with a spectacular outdoor céilí at the iconic Titanic Slipways. Featuring the acclaimed Blackwater Céilí Band alongside a host of special guests, this large-scale afternoon celebration promises lively tunes, dancing and plenty of craic in one of Belfast's most historic settings. Whether you're an experienced céilí dancer or simply looking to soak up the atmosphere, everyone is welcome as music, song and dance take over the waterfront. Line-up Blackwater Céilí Band Niamh McGlinchey Jack Warnock Down Academy Pipe Band Cleamairí Feirste | Belfast Wren Boys Causeway Shantymen Selkies Sea Shanty Women Buoys of Ballisodare Glengormley School of Traditional Music Family Activities & Attractions Bodhrán Circle Children's Maritime Art Workshops Face Painting Funfair Food Village Live Music Stage at SS Nomadic A fantastic family-friendly day celebrating traditional music, maritime heritage and community in the heart of Belfast.

Michael McGoldrick Big Band Belfast TradFest is proud to present the Michael McGoldrick Big Band as part of the Belfast TradFest 2026 concert programme. Led by flute, whistle and uilleann pipes virtuoso Michael McGoldrick, this all-star ensemble brings together some of the finest musicians from the traditional, folk and jazz worlds for a bold and expansive musical collaboration. Expect driving rhythms, rich textures and world-class improvisation, rooted in tradition while pushing into exciting contemporary territory.

Dunville's Irish Whiskey Tasting Now in its third year, Belfast TradFest's partnership with Dunville's Irish Whiskey continues with a special whiskey tasting event as part of the festival programme. Hosted upstairs in Madden's Bar, this exclusive tasting will be led by Séamus Óg Birt, Global Brand Ambassador for The Echlinville Distillery, the team responsible for reviving the iconic Dunville's Irish Whiskey brand, originally founded in Belfast in 1808. Guests will be guided through more than 200 years of local whiskey history while sampling six exceptional Dunville's pours, including three Belfast TradFest exclusive single-cask bottlings, two special releases from Madden's Bar, and an unreleased single malt warehouse cask sample. Expect everything that makes Belfast pub culture special: conversation, storytelling, music, a few pints and great whiskey shared among friends. The Belfast TradFest 2026 Dunville's Irish Whiskey release will be available to purchase by the bottle on the night, alongside exclusive Madden's Bar merchandise.

Solo Highland Piping Competition Belfast TradFest 2026 The Solo Highland Piping Competition returns to Belfast TradFest for another thrilling evening of world-class piping, bringing together some of Ireland's finest competitive pipers in the intimate surroundings of The Deer's Head. Featuring champions, rising stars and internationally recognised performers, this prestigious event celebrates the precision, power and artistry of Highland piping at the highest level. Audiences can expect a captivating programme of Piobaireachd, March, Strathspey and Reel, and Hornpipe and Jig performances, showcasing both technical brilliance and deep musical expression. Featured Competitors Alastair Donaghy Current Senior Ulster Champion, Alastair Donaghy is one of Ireland's leading competitive pipers. A winner of the prestigious Gordon Duncan Memorial Competition in 2023, he also claimed victory in last year's competition, earning the opportunity to represent Ireland at the MacCrimmon Trophy during the Festival Interceltique de Lorient in France. A member of the legendary Field Marshal Montgomery Pipe Band since 2016, Alastair has won numerous major championships, including three World Pipe Band Championships. Sean Moloney Originally from County Limerick and now based in County Tyrone, Sean Moloney comes from a traditional Irish music background before focusing his attention on Highland piping. He has performed with Closkelt and St Mary's Derrytrasna Pipe Bands and has competed at the highest levels in both piping and drumming. James Stone A primary school teacher from Waterford City, James Stone began learning pipes from his father, John Stone, before continuing his studies with the late Stephen Power and current tutor Ronan Maguire. Among his many achievements are: Senior A All-Ireland Champion (2025) Gordon Duncan Memorial Winner (2025) Irish Piobaireachd Society Former Winners Champion Northern Ireland Piper of the Year Piobaireachd Winner St Patrick's Day Competition Winner James will represent Ireland at the MacCrimmon Trophy during this year's Festival Interceltique de Lorient. Kris Coyle From Carrickfergus, Kris Coyle has enjoyed an exceptional competitive career, including: Four-time Northern Ireland Piper of the Year Two-time Ulster Solo Champion Five-time Ulster Hornpipe & Jig Champion Inveraray Games B Grade Piobaireachd Champion (2018) Multiple Loch Lomond Highland Games Champion Kris is also a member of Field Marshal Montgomery Pipe Band. Reece Doherty Taught by his late grandfather Billy Doherty, Reece has emerged as one of the brightest young talents in solo piping. A member of St Laurence O'Toole Pipe Band, Dublin, he has won three consecutive All-Ireland MSR titles and currently holds the C1 Championship title. In 2024 he reached the final of the prestigious Pipe Idol competition at Piping Live! in Glasgow. Scott Wallace One of Ireland's most decorated pipers, Scott Wallace has won every major senior solo title in Ireland and has regularly featured among the prize winners in Scotland. A former member of both Field Marshal Montgomery and St Laurence O'Toole, Scott has accumulated multiple major championships during a remarkable competitive career that includes six World Championship titles. A Celebration of Piping Excellence With fierce competition, extraordinary musicianship and an intimate atmosphere, the Solo Highland Piping Competition remains one of the highlights of the Belfast TradFest programme. Bringing together established champions and emerging talent, the event showcases the very best of contemporary Highland piping while celebrating the deep connections between Ireland's piping traditions and the international piping community. An unforgettable evening of world-class Highland piping featuring champions, rising stars and some of the finest performers in the tradition today.

Oíche na Máistrí An Evening with the Masters of Irish Traditional Music Join us for an unforgettable evening celebrating some of the most respected and dynamic performers in Irish traditional music, song and dance, presented by Belfast's own Neil Martin. Bringing together internationally acclaimed musicians, singers and dancers, this special concert showcases the extraordinary depth, artistry and vitality of Ireland's living tradition through a programme of world-class performances. From powerful instrumental music and captivating song to breathtaking dance, Oíche na Máistrí is a celebration of the artists who continue to shape and inspire traditional music today. Featured Artists Caitlín Nic Gabhann & Ciarán Ó Maonaigh Caitlín Nic Gabhann is one of Ireland's leading concertina players, dancers and educators, renowned for her innovative work in both performance and teaching. From Gaoth Dobhair, County Donegal, Ciarán Ó Maonaigh is celebrated for his distinctive fiddle style and deep connection to the Donegal tradition. Together they perform internationally, combining musical excellence, dance and creativity while remaining firmly rooted in tradition. Oisín MacDiarmada & Samantha Harvey All-Ireland champion fiddler Oisín MacDiarmada is the founder of internationally acclaimed traditional music group Téada and one of the leading figures in the Sligo fiddle tradition. Joining him is award-winning dancer, accordion player and pianist Samantha Harvey, whose performances have captivated audiences around the world. Daibhidh Stiùbhard Traditional singer Daibhidh Stiùbhard from County Tyrone is renowned for his distinctive voice and repertoire spanning both Irish and Scottish Gaelic song traditions. A Fleadh-winning performer and acclaimed recording artist, his music reflects a profound connection to language, place and tradition. Conor Connolly Winner of TG4 Young Musician of the Year 2019, Conor Connolly is a highly regarded accordion player, pianist and singer from County Galway whose performances combine exceptional musicianship with a deep understanding of the tradition. Mirella Murray An All-Ireland champion accordion player from Connemara, Mirella Murray has enjoyed an outstanding international career as both performer and teacher. A long-standing member of Cherish the Ladies, she is widely respected for her musicianship and contribution to traditional music education. Robbie Harris One of Ireland's leading percussionists, Robbie Harris is known for his work with Jiggy, Pólca 4 and numerous international collaborations. His innovative approach combines Irish traditional rhythm with global percussion influences, bringing energy and creativity to every performance. George McAdam All-Ireland Senior Banjo Champion George McAdam from County Monaghan is recognised as one of the foremost banjo players of his generation. A member of the All-Ireland-winning Blackwater Céilí Band, he is a highly sought-after performer and tutor. Donogh Hennessy Widely regarded as one of the most influential guitarists in Irish traditional music, Donogh Hennessy is best known as a founding member of Lúnasa and Lumiere. His innovative accompaniment style has helped redefine the role of guitar in traditional ensembles, combining rhythm, subtlety and musical imagination. Hosted by Neil Martin The evening will be hosted by Belfast-born composer, cellist and uilleann piper Neil Martin. With an international career spanning concert music, theatre, opera and film, Martin has collaborated with artists including Seamus Heaney, Liam O'Flynn and Jean Butler, while continuing to explore the creative possibilities between traditional and contemporary music. A remarkable gathering of master musicians, singers and dancers celebrating the richness, beauty and enduring power of Ireland's traditional arts.

Belfast TradFest Flute Concert Belfast TradFest proudly presents its annual celebration of the wooden flute, an instrument deeply woven into Belfast's musical identity and one of the defining voices of Irish traditional music. Belfast has long been synonymous with the sound of the flute. The local style is renowned for its driving energy, rhythmic pulse and creativity, drawing listeners into the hypnotic flow that has become a hallmark of the city's musical tradition. This much-loved annual concert brings together some of the world's finest traditional flute and whistle players for a dynamic evening of solo performances, collaborations and musical exchange. Featured Artists Sylvain Barou A Breton multi-instrumentalist of international acclaim, Sylvain Barou is celebrated for his virtuosic flute playing and his ability to bridge Irish, Breton and global musical traditions. June McCormack Originally from County Sligo, June McCormack is one of Ireland's most respected flute players. A TG4 Young Musician of the Year and All-Ireland champion, she is recognised for her mastery of the North Connacht style and her acclaimed recordings and international performances. Michael McGoldrick Manchester-born Michael McGoldrick is one of the most influential flute and whistle players of his generation. A founding member of Lúnasa and a member of both Capercaillie and Mark Knopfler's touring band, he is renowned for his distinctive sound and groundbreaking approach to traditional music. Éimhear Flannery A recent Seán Ó Riada Gold Medal winner from County Cork, Éimhear Flannery is admired for her lyrical, expressive playing and exceptional musical sensitivity. Gino Lupari Founding member of Four Men and a Dog, Gino Lupari is one of Ireland's most celebrated bodhrán players, known for his energy, precision and unmistakable rhythmic drive. Patrick Davey A leading figure in Belfast's traditional music community, Patrick Davey is recognised for his powerful flute style and his ongoing contribution to sustaining and developing the city's rich flute tradition. Etain Murphy From County Antrim, Etain Murphy is one of the most exciting young flute players emerging on the traditional music scene. A student of Patrick Davey and the Glengormley School of Traditional Music, she gained national recognition in 2023 by winning the prestigious Peig Needham Cup for Under-12 Flute at Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann. John Blake Originally from London and now based in Galway, John Blake is a highly respected guitarist and accompanist whose sensitive and versatile playing has made him a sought-after collaborator across the traditional music world. Fergal O'Brien An accomplished bodhrán player and educator from County Armagh, Fergal O'Brien brings subtlety, power and rhythmic sophistication to ensemble performance. A Celebration of Belfast's Flute Tradition Bringing together internationally renowned performers, local masters and emerging young talent, this special concert celebrates the enduring influence of the flute within Belfast's musical landscape and its continuing role at the heart of Irish traditional music. A world-class showcase of flute, whistle and rhythm celebrating one of Belfast's most cherished musical traditions.

Pipers Cross Céilí Join us for a lively night of céilí dancing, music and craic with the acclaimed Pipers Cross Céilí Band and celebrated Belfast dance master Ronan Eastwood. Known for their driving rhythms, rich musicality and infectious energy, Pipers Cross are one of the most exciting céilí bands on the scene today, bringing dancers to the floor with a thrilling mix of traditional favourites and high-spirited tunes. Whether you're a seasoned céilí dancer or trying it for the very first time, Ronan's warm and engaging calling style will guide you through every step. Expect big tunes, plenty of laughter and a packed dance floor as part of Belfast TradFest. Céilí Special Offer Book 4 Redeemer Central Céilís for £40. Use code: CEILI at checkout. This event is open to all ages. BYO, no bar available. This venue is wheelchair accessible with ramp but unfortunately no designated disabled toilet.