07 Aug 2026

Tourism NI host Economy Minister for Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann tour

Tourism Northern Ireland this week hosted Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald for a Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann tour in Belfast.

Photo Caption: Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald, Ellvena Graham, Chair of Tourism NI and Laura McCorry, Chief Executive of Tourism NI, met with volunteers who are working at Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, during a Tourism NI-hosted Ministerial tour.

The world's largest celebration of music, dance, song, language, culture and competition is taking place in the city for the first time. 

The Tourism NI walk‑around showcased several key sites where Fleadh events are taking place, providing Minister Archibald with the opportunity to meet with some of the local suppliers, venues and organisations taking part.
 
During the tour, the Minister, who was accompanied by Ellvena Graham, Chair of Tourism NI, and Laura McCorry, Chief Executive of Tourism NI, visited the Craic & Craft Market at ICC Belfast.

The Minister met with volunteers who are working at the Fleadh and visited some of the artisan and food vendors who are showcasing the remarkable quality and variety of Northern Ireland's food and drink sector.

The group also visited the Tourism NI/Visit Belfast Visitor Servicing Stand.
 
Next, the Minister made a stop at The Dark Horse in the Cathedral Quarter where she viewed a new mural celebrating Belfast's traditional musicians.

At Belfast Cathedral, the Minister joined a host of VIPs, including Taoiseach Micheál Martin, to enjoy a performance by Scoil Éigse, the flagship international summer school organised by Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann (CCÉ).

A final stop at The MAC gave the Minister an opportunity to explore Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann Irish Language Hub, which is providing a welcoming and engaging space designed for visitors of all ages and fluency levels, who can enjoy exhibitions, interactive workshops and performances.