Belfast TradFest returns this summer, from July 27th to August 3rd, with its seventh edition, featuring Ireland’s fastest growing Summer School of Traditional Music and a programme of concerts, talks, lectures, sessions, céilís and festival clubs.
The festival has rapidly grown to become Northern Ireland’s premier festival of traditional music, drawing traditional musicians and enthusiasts from across the globe to experience the unique soundscape that exists in Belfast, and in celebration of traditional music, song and dance from across Ireland and the UK.
Artistic director Dónal O’Connor has assembled another incredible concert series featuring an exciting and diverse line-up, including traditional music sensations Dervish; the genre-blending group Notify; the majestic Irish Concertina Orchestra; pianist-composer Cormac McCarthy and the MGCE Concert Orchestra; The Breath led by the soulful voice of Ríoghnach Connolly; and founder of The Gloaming Iarla Ó Lionáird performing with guitar maestro Tim Edey.
The programme also features duos and ensembles such as Scottish artists Chris Stout and Catriona McKay, the unstoppable Mick McAuley and John Doyle, the legendary trio Matt Molloy, John Carty and Brian McGrath, new Belfast powerful trad ensemble Tempest which features flute player Brendan Mulholland as well as high energy groups like Kinnaris Quintet, Moxie, Goitse and a once-in-a-lifetime collaboration between Julie Fowlis, Éamon Doorley, Zoë Conway, John McIntyre and the Ulster Orchestra.
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Delivered in partnership with Ulster University, the Belfast TradFest Summer School is designed to offer participants a deeply immersive experience, attracting learners of all ages and skill levels – from absolute beginners just picking up an instrument to seasoned musicians seeking to refine their style.
Over five intensive days, attendees can take part in masterclasses, interactive workshops, insightful talks, live demonstrations, instrument clinics and curated film screenings, all led by some of the most highly respected and innovative artists in the world of traditional music.
To make the experience even more accessible, affordable accommodation packages are available for Summer School participants in the heart of Belfast city with seven-night stays from just £349 (€402) – an incredible offer whether you’re attending solo, with friends or as a family.
This year’s impressive roster of Summer School tutors reads like a who’s who of traditional music excellence: Kevin Burke, legendary fiddler from The Bothy Band; Catriona McKay, the groundbreaking Scottish harpist; global vocal phenomenon Iarla Ó Lionáird; Cathy Jordan, the powerhouse voice behind Dervish; Stephanie Keane, acclaimed Limerick-born dancer; smallpipes hero Brìghde Chaimbeul; Shetland fiddle wizard Chris Stout; and revered instrumentalists including Louise Mulcahy, Mary Bergin, John Doyle, Zoë Conway, Caitlín Nic Gabhann and Ronán Eastwood, Belfast’s very own set dancing master.
Whether you’re brushing up on ornamentation, learning a new dance step, or simply looking to connect with others passionate about the tradition, the Summer School is an unparalleled opportunity for inspiration.
The Dunville’s Irish Whiskey Session Trail features more than 100 sessions in 20 of Belfast’s oldest and best-loved pubs, including Madden’s Bar, The Garrick, Kelly’s Cellars, The Deer’s Head, the John Hewitt, The Sunflower, The Duke of York, Hatfield House and many more.
All sessions are free admission, run for two hours and are céilí house-style listening sessions. For the first hour of each session the master musicians set the scene for the session then invite the room to join in. These sessions offer the aspiring musician an opportunity to listen to and observe music played by musicians of the highest calibre. This style of session reflects the céilí house traditions of the previous century, where aspiring musicians and listeners would gather at the home of a local master musician. The master would “hold court” and oversee an evening of entertainment, which would start with a skilful performance, followed by an invitation to join in.
For those eager to keep the festivities going after hours, the Festival Club at The Deer’s Head provides the ideal late-night venue. Each evening, this lively hub will feature top-tier entertainment, creating a welcoming space where festivalgoers and artists can connect, unwind and dance into the night. Featuring lively acts such as Joe Jack Attack and Becky Ní Éallaithe, Sinéad McKenna Band, NxNW, The Johnny Quinn Macs and a Trad Disco with DJ Lachlan.
As part of the opening weekend of Belfast TradFest everyone is invited to take part in the Titanic Céilí: a free, one-day outdoor family event on Sunday, July 27th, from 1-5 pm, celebrating traditional music, song and dance at the Titanic Slipways on Belfast’s Maritime Mile.
Last year’s event attracted 10,000 revellers and the music stage will feature Pólca 4, Meadhbh Walsh, Róise McHugh, Belfast Ukulele Jam, Belfast Wren Boys and Glengormley School of Traditional Music. The event, in association with Maritime Belfast, includes an outdoor céilí, with sets such as The Waves of Tory and Siege of Ennis, called by dance master Ronán Eastwood for all ages to experience.
The fun doesn’t stop there with Bodhrán circles, children’s maritime art workshops, face painters and a live four-hour traditional music session on the deck of the SS Nomadic also taking place.
“Having firmly established Belfast TradFest as a cornerstone of the cultural calendar since the first edition in 2017, and drawing enthusiasts from across the globe, the festival’s mission is to celebrate and preserve the rich heritage of traditional Irish and Scottish music, while fostering new talent and creating a vibrant platform for artists to share their craft,” says O’Connor.
“We also pride ourselves on our cross-cultural and cross-traditional ethos, bringing people from all backgrounds and all ages together to celebrate, engage with and enjoy traditional music. This year’s line-up is a testament to this commitment, featuring an array of internationally acclaimed musicians, singers and dancers, alongside emerging local artists.”
Belfast TradFest, in partnership with the Linen Quarter BID, will bring a lively celebration of traditional music, dance and culture throughout the month of July at Belfast Grand Central Station. Expect spontaneous céilís, bodhrán circles and captivating performances from emerging and established artists, animating the new station – the gateway to Belfast Unesco City of Music.
One of the festival’s most impactful initiatives is its Bursary Sponsorship Scheme, a programme that opens doors for aspiring young musicians to attend the Summer School through financial support from individuals, businesses and cultural organisations.
These bursaries ensure that talent is nurtured based on potential and passion, not financial means. Those interested in supporting the next generation of traditional musicians can learn more about sponsorship opportunities at belfasttraditionalmusic.com.
Belfast TradFest is far more than just a festival, it is a celebration of heritage, creativity and the unifying power of music. It is a living, breathing testament to the richness of Irish and Scottish traditional culture and its ability to adapt, connect and resonate with audiences of all kinds.
As the festival continues to grow in scale and ambition, it remains grounded in its mission: to honour tradition while embracing innovation, to build community and to share the magic of music with everyone.
Whether you’re a long-time trad fan, a curious newcomer, or someone simply looking for unforgettable experiences this summer – Belfast TradFest promises a week full of some of the finest traditional arts, unforgettable moments and lifelong connections.
To find out more and book today, visit belfasttradfest.com
