Infrastructure Minister has announced additional
late-night bus and rail services to support Fleadh Cheoil na
hÉireann 2026.
Minister Kimmins said: With over 800,000 people expected to
attend the Fleadh, there will be increased demand on transport
services. These additional late-night services will help
people travel safely and conveniently while supporting Belfast's
wider traffic management arrangements.
The Fleadh is one of the largest cultural festivals in Europe and
it is a real honour for Belfast to be chosen to host it this year
and next. Public transport has an important role to play in
helping visitors and participants move around the city and
enjoy everything the festival has to offer.
Providing late-night travel options will support the success of
the event, improve connectivity and contribute to Belfast's
night-time economy.
Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Róis-Máire Donnelly, welcomed
the announcement on behalf of Belfast City Council, who are
hosting the event, alongside Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann and Ards
CCÉ.
She said: This is great news for everyone from local residents to
tourists who want to make the most of the Fleadh experience and
enjoy everything our city has to offer into the night.
This will also be a welcome boost to our local restaurants,
music venues and wider evening economy. Beidh deis ag lucht
freastala ár gcomharsanachtaí a fheiceáil agus fearadh na fáilte
rompu istigh. Bíonn an siúlach scéalach!
Public transport is a key part of our traffic and travel plans
for this huge event, and this enhanced late-night service
supports our wider call to move with the rhythm of the Fleadh' by
leaving the car at home and walking, cycling or taking the bus or
train, where possible.
Notes to editors:
- Additional late-night bus and rail services will operate on
Sunday 2 August and from Thursday 6 August to Sunday 9 August.
The services will complement the wider transport and traffic
management plans being put in place for the event. More
information will be available on the Translink website at:
www.translink.co.uk/fleadh
- Visitors are encouraged to plan their journey in advance,
allow extra time and use public transport where possible,
particularly as road closures and traffic restrictions will be in
place across parts of Belfast city centre during the festival.
- Belfast's compact, walkable city centre and public transport
network will support access across Fleadh venues, with clear
signage, volunteer support and up-to-date travel information
available throughout the week.
- Access to the city will also be supported through three
dedicated Park and Ride sites for visitors travelling to attend
the event. More information here: fleadhcheoil.ie/travel/
