Economy Minister Dr has welcomed a 13%
increase in the support Tourism Northern Ireland is providing to
this year's August Féile.
August Féile 2026, delivered by Féile an Phobail, will take place
from 24 July until 9 August, and will feature an enhanced
programme of over 600 events taking place across 50 venues in
west Belfast and across the city.
The Minister said: “This investment recognises the festival's
importance not only as a cornerstone of our cultural calendar,
but also as a key driver of tourism and economic
activity. It offers visitors an authentic experience of our
music, arts, and community spirit, while also encouraging them to
explore everything our region has to offer.
“With thousands of visitors expected to come to the city, the
exciting Féile programme will encourage visitors to extend their
stay and explore more and will build the excitement for us
hosting the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann.”
August Féile is one of 16 events which have been offered funding
under International Tourism Events Fund 2026-27 and plays an
important role in contributing to the tourism economy in Northern
Ireland. The festival line-up, which includes concerts,
debates, discussions, art exhibitions, community events, sports
activities, and comedy nights, has been notably expanded this
year, starting earlier to build momentum and maximise the
opportunities presented alongside Belfast hosting Fleadh Cheoil
na hÉireann and other cultural events this summer, such as
Tradfest and Belfast Mela.
The Minister continued: “It is shaping up to be an exciting
summer. Many of those attending the August Féile and Fleadh
Cheoil na hÉireann are expected to explore beyond Belfast,
enjoying our stunning landscapes, rich heritage, renowned food
and drink, high-quality accommodation, and visitor attractions.”
Siobhan McGuigan, Head of Events at Tourism Northern Ireland,
said: “We are pleased to support August Féile 2026 as part
of an impressive programme of festivals and events taking place
this summer.
“The festival continues to evolve in scale and ambition,
playing an important role in showcasing Belfast and
Northern Ireland as a vibrant and varied cultural destination
which attracts international visitors.”
Kevin Gamble, Director of Féile an Phobail added: “We are
absolutely delighted to receive this significant support from
Tourism NI through the International Tourism Events Fund. This
investment will help Féile an Phobail continue to grow as one of
Ireland's leading community arts and cultural festivals,
attracting even more visitors from across Ireland, Britain and
further afield to Belfast and the Gaeltacht Quarter.
“Each year Féile offers a fantastic and diverse programme of
events - from world-class music and entertainment, debates and
discussions, traditional sessions, family activities and cultural
experiences - showcasing the very best of Belfast's creativity,
culture and community spirit.
“We know visitors are increasingly seeking authentic cultural
experiences and Féile provides exactly that, alongside the famous
céad míle fáilte that awaits everyone who comes to enjoy the
festival. We look forward to welcoming audiences from near and
far to experience everything Féile has to offer.”
Notes to editors:
- The ITEF supports events that attract significantly high
levels of visitors to Northern Ireland while also generating
international media coverage, which helps to showcase the region
as a must-see travel destination.
- According to the event organisers, the festival is set to
generate almost £1.8 million for the local economy by drawing
over 110,000 visitors – 15% of whom will be from outside Northern
Ireland.
