Belfast is set to come alive with the sound of traditional music this summer as Belfast TradFest returns with an ambitious and star-studded programme for 2026.
Running from July 26 to August 2, the week-long celebration will bring together some of the most influential and exciting names in folk and traditional music, reaffirming the city’s reputation as a global hub for the genre.
Now in its eighth year, the festival continues to evolve from its grassroots beginnings into a major international event, while maintaining a strong connection to local culture and musical heritage.
This year’s lineup reflects that balance, combining globally recognised acts with emerging talent and offering audiences everything from large-scale collaborations to intimate, deeply expressive performances.
Leading the headline programme is Flook, who will celebrate 30 years at the forefront of contemporary traditional music. Known for their distinctive sound, a rich blend of flutes, whistles, guitar and bodhrán, the band has built a devoted following thanks to their virtuosic playing and remarkable musical chemistry.
Featuring Armagh flautist Brian Finnegan alongside Sarah Allen, John Joe Kelly and Ed Boyd, Flook will take to the stage at Mandela Hall on August 1 in what promises to be their biggest Belfast show to date.
Reflecting on the band’s long-standing connection with the city, Finnegan recalled some of their most memorable performances in Belfast, from packed-out shows at the John Hewitt Bar to more recent appearances at venues such as the Black Box and the Belfast Empire. He described the upcoming Mandela Hall concert as a landmark moment for the group.
The headline series opens on July 26 with the Michael McGoldrick Big Band, a bold and expansive project led by the acclaimed multi-instrumentalist Michael McGoldrick.
Bringing together an all-star ensemble from across the traditional, folk and jazz worlds, the performance is expected to deliver rich arrangements, dynamic textures and a spirit of fearless improvisation.
What began as a community-focused initiative has evolved into a major international festival
— Dónal O’Connor
Another major highlight comes with the return of Solas, widely regarded as one of the most influential groups in contemporary Irish music.
Performing at Mandela Hall on July 31, the band will mark their 30th anniversary with a special tour following an extended hiatus. Featuring founding members Séamus Egan, Winifred Horan and John Williams, the concert will revisit the signature sound that helped bring Irish traditional music to a global audience.
The programme also shines a spotlight on both established and emerging voices. A special double bill at Empire Music Hall on July 29 will feature Lurgan singer-songwriter Barry Kerr, fresh from winning Folk Album of the Year 2025 for his record Curlew’s Cry.
He will be joined by acclaimed artists Pauline Scanlon and Gerry O’Beirne, promising an evening rich in storytelling and song.
Sharing the stage that night will be CUAS, one of the most exciting new acts on the scene. Formed in 2023 in West Kerry, the group has quickly gained attention for their energetic blend of traditional tunes, song and original compositions, earning nominations at the RTÉ Folk Awards.
On July 30, another standout double bill will see The Bonny Men take to the stage alongside a trio of exceptional musicians: renowned Donegal fiddler Bríd Harper, Breton multi-instrumentalist Sylvain Barou and bouzouki player Libby McCrohan. Together, they promise a performance that bridges traditions and showcases the evolving nature of the genre.
Artistic director Dónal O’Connor said the 2026 programme reflects the festival’s journey and long-term vision.
“What began as a community-focused initiative has evolved into a major international festival, while remaining deeply connected to the musicians, traditions and local culture that shaped it.
“This year’s programme reflects that journey, combining globally renowned artists with emerging voices, and large-scale performances with intimate, authentic musical experiences, underlining Belfast TradFest’s long-term vision and our place as a permanent fixture in the cultural calendar. We’re here for the long haul.”
For full programme details and booking information, visit:https://www.belfasttraditionalmusic.com
Tickets for headline concerts are on sale Friday, April 24 at 9am from https://www.belfasttraditionalmusic.com