Additional Late-night Bus and Rail Services Announced for Fleadh
Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has announced additional late-night bus and rail services to support Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2026.
Visitors travelling to Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann Belfast can now enjoy even greater flexibility, following the announcement of additional late-night bus and rail services throughout the festival. The enhanced public transport provision will help thousands of visitors travel safely and conveniently to and from the city centre, supporting Belfast's biggest-ever celebration of Irish music, culture and community. Delivered through a collaborative effort between Translink, the Department for Infrastructure and event partners, the extended services will ensure festivalgoers have more time to enjoy the packed programme of performances, sessions and events across the city.
Infrastructure Minister, Liz Kimmins commented:
“With over 800,000 people expected to attend the Fleadh, there will be increased demand on transport services. These additional late-night services will help people travel safely and conveniently while supporting Belfast’s wider traffic management arrangements."
The Fleadh is one of the largest cultural festivals in Europe and it is a real honour for Belfast to be chosen to host it this year and next. Public transport has an important role to play in helping visitors and participants move around the city and enjoy everything the festival has to offer.
“Providing late-night travel options will support the success of the event, improve connectivity and contribute to Belfast's night-time economy.”
Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Róis-Máire Donnelly, welcomed the announcement on behalf of Belfast City Council, who are hosting the event, alongside Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann and Ards CCÉ.
She said:
“This is great news for everyone from local residents to tourists who want to make the most of the Fleadh experience and enjoy everything our city has to offer into the night.
This will also be a welcome boost to our local restaurants, music venues and wider evening economy. Beidh deis ag lucht freastala ár gcomharsanachtaí a fheiceáil agus fearadh na fáilte rompu istigh. Bíonn an siúlach scéalach!
“Public transport is a key part of our traffic and travel plans for this huge event, and this enhanced late-night service supports our wider call to ‘move with the rhythm of the Fleadh’ by leaving the car at home and walking, cycling or taking the bus or train, where possible.”
Charlie McCloskey, Director of Operations at ICC Belfast, commented:
"We are delighted to see these additional late-night transport services in place for Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann Belfast."
Welcoming thousands of visitors to our venues and the wider city, it's important that everyone can enjoy the celebrations with confidence, knowing there are convenient and safe travel options available at the end of the day.
"Working alongside our city partners, these enhanced services will help create a safe, accessible and memorable experience for everyone attending the Fleadh."
More information is available on the Translink website.
