THE FIRST FLEADH Cheoil na hÉireann to take place in Belfast has brought joy to a city that was once “so dark”, a volunteer has said. People on Commerical Court in Belfast for the Fleadh Alamy Stock Photo Alamy Stock PhotoHe was part of an army of volunteers who gave up hours of their time to help guide more than a million visitors from across the world. Performers at Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2026 Alamy Stock Photo Alamy Stock PhotoThe week-long event has also featured bands from the Loyalist and Unionist traditions in Northern Ireland as well as minority ethnic communities. Performers at Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2026 in Belfast Alamy Stock Photo Alamy Stock Photo“Many congratulations to everyone involved in the Fleadh’s first showing in Belfast which has defied expectations showcasing an amazingly talented and welcoming city,” he wrote. Performers at this year's Fleadh in Belfast Alamy Stock Photo Alamy Stock PhotoShe added: “Everyone is smiling and very appreciative of everything we’re doing as well.