The first-ever All Ireland Fleadh in Belfast concluded Monday, with organizers expressing delight at the event's widespread positive reception across all communities. An estimated one million people are thought to have visited the city center during the eight-day festival.
Thousands remained at Belfast City Hall until the early hours of Monday to witness the closing ceremonies and final musical performances. Niall McClean, co-chair of the organizing committee, described the event as historic, stating it brought together "every single community" and that attendees "have absolutely loved it."
"Belfast has shone, the world has come to our doorstep, bringing the biggest numbers ever seen for a Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann," McClean told the crowd. He also expressed pride in the organizing committee and its members for achieving their dream of hosting the festival in the city. The All Ireland Fleadh is scheduled to return to Belfast from August 1 to August 8, 2027.
