Two weeks of TradMusic across Belfast starts this weekend with Belfast Tradfest
Ireland’s Biggest Céilí returns to the Titanic Slipways
Last updated 12 hours ago
Belfast TradFest invites everyone to join the Titanic Céilí, a vibrant, FREE family-friendly celebration of traditional Irish and Scottish music, song, and dance.
Set in the historic Titanic Slipways on Belfast’s Maritime Mile, this spectacular opening event takes place this Sunday, 26th July 2026, from 1pm to 5pm.
Admission: Free (Registration required) from belfasttraditionalmusic.com/titanic-ceili __
Delivered in partnership with Maritime Belfast Trust, this year’s event is expected to attract more than 10,000 people once again.
The Titanic Céilí will feature live traditional music and céilí dancing throughout the afternoon, creating an energetic and welcoming atmosphere for all ages and abilities, hosted by BBC Radio Ulster’s Caoimhe Ní Chathail and led by renowned Belfast céilí dance master Ronán Eastwood. Whether you’re an experienced céilí dancer or simply looking to soak up the atmosphere, everyone is welcome to join the fun as music and dance take over Belfast’s waterfront.
An Incredible Main Stage Line-Up
This year’s stellar musical program features an outstanding array of talent:
-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 Fun, Workshops & Activities
Alongside the main céilí, families and visitors can enjoy a wide range of interactive activities:
Bodhrán Circles: Led by the legendary bodhrán maestro Fergal O’Brien.
Children’s Activities: Maritime art workshops, face painting, and a funfair.
Food Village: A variety of delicious local food and drink vendors on-site.
SS Nomadic Stage: Experience live traditional music performances set against the unique backdrop of the historic SS Nomadic.
Artistic Director of Belfast TradFest, Dónal O'Connor, reflects on the event's deep historical and cultural significance:
"The Titanic Slipways, once the launchpad for one of the world's most famous ships, will come alive with the sounds and rhythms that have been cherished across generations. Belfast's maritime heritage, paired with its rich musical traditions, creates a truly unique setting.
"This céilí is more than a communal dance; it is a living link to our ancestors, celebrating their spirit, resilience and enduring legacy. As we gather to dance and make music together, we honour those who came before us while ensuring these traditions continue to thrive. It's a powerful way to open this year's festival, and we hope it marks the first step towards an attempt in 2027 to secure the Guinness World Records title for the World's Biggest Céilí."
Kerrie Sweeney MBE, Chief Executive of Maritime Belfast Trust, said: "We are delighted to be partnering with Belfast TradFest for the fifth consecutive year to present the Titanic Céilí on the world-renowned Titanic Slipways.
"This year's ambitious event brings us one step closer to our goal of achieving the Guinness World Records title for the World's Biggest Céilí. We invite everyone to join us this Sunday and be part of the journey. It's a wonderful celebration of traditional music and dance, bringing communities together on Belfast's historic waterfront."
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