Island's largest céilí festival set to return to Belfast in celebration of ‘rich legacy' of Irish and Scottish music

Belfast Telegraph

3 days ago

The celebration of song and dance, which has been coined Titanic Ceili, is expected to draw over 10,000 people to Titanic Slipways when it gets underway on Sunday, July 27.
A host of musicians will take to the main stage including Belfast's own Róise McHugh with Down Academy Pipes and Drum also performing alongside Kerry trad band Pólca 4.
Artistic Director of Belfast TradFest, Dónal O'Connor, said the event is a significant celebration of history and culture.
'The Titanic Céilí on the iconic Slipways of Belfast's Maritime Mile is more than a celebration of traditional music, song, and dance; it's a tribute to the rich legacy of Irish and Scottish musical traditions that have shaped this city,' he said.
'Céilí and set dancing were central to social life during the Titanic era, bringing communities together in joyful celebration. Hosting this event on the very site where Titanic was built connects us directly to that vibrant cultural past.'
'The Titanic Slipways—once the launchpad for one of the world's most famous ships—will come alive with the sounds and rhythms cherished for generations. Belfast's maritime heritage, paired with its enduring musical traditions, creates a truly unique backdrop.
'This céilí is not just a communal dance; it's a living link to our ancestors, celebrating their spirit and resilience. As we gather to dance and make music, we honour those who came before us and keep their legacy alive. It's a powerful way to open this year's festival, and we hope it's a step towards a future attempt at the 'World's Biggest Céilí'.'
Ballad guitarist and singer-songwriter Meadhbh Walsh from Co Cork will also make an appearance with The Belfast Wren Boys and the internationally acclaimed Glengormley School of Traditional Music delivering an ensemble of folk songs.
Families are encouraged to enjoy range of workshops and activities such as bodhrán circles, art stations and face painting at the festival.
Plenty of food and drink vendors will also be there on the day of the festival which is being hosted in tandem with the Maritime Belfast Trust, Belfast City Council and Tourism NI.
Kerrie Sweeney MBE, CEO Maritime Belfast Trust, said: 'We are delighted to work in partnership with Belfast TradFest for the fourth consecutive year in delivering the Titanic Céilí on our world-renowned Titanic Slipways.
Watch: Flash Flooding hits parts of Northern Ireland
"This year's ambitious event sees us one step closer to achieving the Guinness World Record for the largest outdoor Céilí. .
"We invite everyone to come down this Sunday and be part of this journey, it's a wonderful celebration of traditional music and dance, bringing communities together on Belfast's heritage waterfront."
Entry to the Titanic céilí is free.
The event will run from 1–5pm at Titanic Slipways on Belfast's Maritime Mile on Sunday afternoon.