Belfast TradFest returns for its 7th edition this July 27th – August 3rd in venues across Belfast, the UNESCO City of Music.
It features a vibrant week of concerts, masterclasses, sessions and summer school, showcasing some of the finest artists from the world of traditional music, song and dance. Belfast TradFest is the fastest growing festival of traditional music in Ireland, featuring over 500 musicians and 450 events in 30 venues throughout the city. In 2024, the festival welcomed over 650 summer school students and attracted a record audience of more than 20,000 people across its events, highlighting its significant growth and impact both locally and internationally.
Artistic Director Dónal O’Connor says:
“Over the past seven years, Belfast TradFest has grown from a bold idea into a major celebration of traditional music, song, and dance that belongs to all of us — and to this brilliant city. From the cobbled streets of the Cathedral Quarter to the grandeur of the Ulster Hall, from late-night sessions to world-class concerts, Belfast TradFest is a meeting place — of generations, of cultures, and of hearts and minds.”
He adds, “This year, we hope to attract a total audience of over 25,000 to take part in our extensive programme. From showcasing legendary performers such as Matt Molloy, Cathy Jordan, and Kevin Burke, to nurturing the next generation through our summer school and bursary programme, Belfast TradFest is about more than entertainment — it’s about education, preservation, and community. We’re proud to continue building a space where tradition evolves, thrives, and brings people together in the heart of Belfast, UNESCO City of Music.”
Visitors can look forward to a packed programme featuring:
- Major concerts with internationally renowned artists
- Traditional Céílís
- Masterclasses and workshops with master musicians
- Guided music and cultural walks
- Talks and film screenings
- Ireland’s premier session trail, with over 100 traditional music sessions taking place in Belfast’s finest traditional bars
The festival poster lists an incredible lineup:
With that much on offer you’ll need to plan a visit to catch all of the concerts and sessions you want to get to, the good thing is that you just buy tickets for the concerts, sessions, dances and classes you want to see.
Find out more and book tickets at https://www.belfasttraditionalmusic.com/
Pictures by Claire Loughran
