Footfall in the centre of Belfast almost doubled on the first day of the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann compared to the first Sunday in August last year, with cameras capturing more than 175,000 people. More than 350,000 were counted over the first two days of the musical celebration in roughly one square mile around Belfast City Hall, a business group revealed. While some people may have been captured more than once, the numbers are significantly greater than comparable days last year and last week. “It’s been wonderful to be part of the opening days and to see so many people enjoying our city centre and the vibrant, welcoming atmosphere we strive so hard to deliver,” Ms Connolly said. Stormont’s Department for the Economy anticipate the Belfast Fleadh will generate £53 million in economic benefit based on upwards of 700,000 visitors to the city this week.