Fleadh Cheoil an Dúin 2026 will be hosted in Downpatrick for the first time ever!
Each year, hundreds of competitors — from young beginners to seasoned performers — take part in competitions across traditional music, singing, storytelling, comhrá gaeilge, and dancing.
Fleadh Cheoil an Dúin is the first qualifying stage for competitors from County Down on the pathway to the Ulster and All-Ireland Fleadhanna.
Alongside the competitions, the host town comes alive with sessions, céilís, workshops, family activities, and a fantastic festival atmosphere filled with music and culture.
Chairman of both County Down Comhaltas Board and Lecale CCÉ, Mark Higgins, explained: “This year’s Fleadh Cheoil an Dúin is special for many reasons.
“It marks a significant moment in local history as the County Fleadh has never before been held in Downpatrick.
“And not only that – Branches from our County will also host Fleadh Cheoil Uladh and Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in the same year – a remarkable achievement!
“Yes, Warrenpoint CCÉ will once again host Fleadh Cheoil Uladh, and Ards CCÉ is the host branch for Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann coming to Belfast for the first time ever!
“All this is also happening on the same year that Comhaltas celebrates its 75th Anniversary.
“I am therefore delighted that Lecale CCÉ, the Comhaltas Branch I set up four years ago, and Downpatrick Town are part of an historic year for Comhaltas, and Irish Traditional Music flourishing in County Down.
“As part of hosting the Fleadh Cheoil an Dúin we have a fantastic range of FREE fringe events from Monday 15th – Friday 19th June that will showcase the talent associated with Comhaltas traditions, leading up to the main competition days Saturday 20th and Sunday 21st June that will be held in the SERC Campus, Downpatrick.”
Mark Higgins added: The fringe events will have everything from Piping displays, Irish Dancing, Pop-Up Gaeltachts, Heritage Showcasing, Sean-Nós Dancing – and of course Irish Traditional Music.
“All fringe events are FREE and open to everyone to attend and I would encourage everyone to follow Lecale CCÉ on social media where full information is available.
“The Fleadh is expected to attract around 2,000 visitors to Downpatrick, providing a welcome boost to the local economy.
“With the main venue located at the SERC Campus beside the bus station, visitors will be right at the heart of the town – and we encourage all visitors to explore the town and enjoy local cafés and restaurants, and support local businesses and the Artisan Market.”
Places to visit in Downpatrick are the St Patrick Centre, Down Arts Centre, Down. County Museum, and the Downpatrick and County Down Railway.
For full programme information, go to Facebook: Lecale CCÉ.
Get Involved with Lecale CCÉ
Lecale CCÉ welcomes people of all ages, whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to develop your skills.
• Learn traditional instruments
• Meet new friends in a fun and supportive environment
• Take part in sessions, performances, and competitions
• Build confidence and be part of a thriving cultural community
Young people are especially encouraged to get involved — no previous experience is necessary, just an interest in music and culture!
For anyone interested in learning Irish traditional music or improving their skills, please contact:
