Funding boost for Ireland’s biggest community arts festival
Date published:
Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has welcomed a 13% increase in the support Tourism Northern Ireland is providing to this year’s August Féile.
August Féile 2026, delivered by Féile an Phobail, will take place from 24 July until 9 August, and will feature an enhanced programme of over 600 events taking place across 50 venues in west Belfast and across the city.
The Minister said:
“This investment recognises the festival’s importance not only as a cornerstone of our cultural calendar, but also as a key driver of tourism and economic activity. It offers visitors an authentic experience of our music, arts, and community spirit, while also encouraging them to explore everything our region has to offer.
“With thousands of visitors expected to come to the city, the exciting Féile programme will encourage visitors to extend their stay and explore more and will build the excitement for us hosting the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann.”
August Féile is one of 16 events which have been offered funding under International Tourism Events Fund 2026-27 and plays an important role in contributing to the tourism economy in Northern Ireland. The festival line-up, which includes concerts, debates, discussions, art exhibitions, community events, sports activities, and comedy nights, has been notably expanded this year, starting earlier to build momentum and maximise the opportunities presented alongside Belfast hosting Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann and other cultural events this summer, such as Tradfest and Belfast Mela.
The Minister continued:
“It is shaping up to be an exciting summer. Many of those attending the August Féile and Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann are expected to explore beyond Belfast, enjoying our stunning landscapes, rich heritage, renowned food and drink, high-quality accommodation, and visitor attractions.”
Siobhan McGuigan, Head of Events at Tourism Northern Ireland, said:
“We are pleased to support August Féile 2026 as part of an impressive programme of festivals and events taking place this summer.
“The festival continues to evolve in scale and ambition, playing an important role in showcasing Belfast and Northern Ireland as a vibrant and varied cultural destination which attracts international visitors.”
Kevin Gamble, Director of Féile an Phobail added:
“We are absolutely delighted to receive this significant support from Tourism NI through the International Tourism Events Fund. This investment will help Féile an Phobail continue to grow as one of Ireland’s leading community arts and cultural festivals, attracting even more visitors from across Ireland, Britain and further afield to Belfast and the Gaeltacht Quarter.
“Each year Féile offers a fantastic and diverse programme of events - from world-class music and entertainment, debates and discussions, traditional sessions, family activities and cultural experiences - showcasing the very best of Belfast’s creativity, culture and community spirit.
“We know visitors are increasingly seeking authentic cultural experiences and Féile provides exactly that, alongside the famous céad míle fáilte that awaits everyone who comes to enjoy the festival. We look forward to welcoming audiences from near and far to experience everything Féile has to offer.”
Notes to editors:
- Caption – Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has welcomed a 13% increase in the support Tourism Northern Ireland is providing to this year’s August Féile 2026. The Minister is pictured with Kevin Gamble, Director of Féile an Phobail and traditional musicians Cormac Ó Briain (seated) and Gerry Jones.
- The ITEF supports events that attract significantly high levels of visitors to Northern Ireland while also generating international media coverage, which helps to showcase the region as a must-see travel destination.
- According to the event organisers, the festival is set to generate almost £1.8 million for the local economy by drawing over 110,000 visitors – 15% of whom will be from outside Northern Ireland.
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