Ireland’s biggest céilí returns to the Titanic Slipways
Belfast TradFest invites everyone to join TITANIC CÉILÍ, a vibrant, FREE family‑friendly celebration of traditional Irish and Scottish music, song, and dance set in the historic Titanic Slipways on Belfast’s Maritime Mile to take part in TITANIC CÉILÍ, this Sun 27th July from 1-5pm.
Delivered in association with Maritime Belfast Trust, Belfast City Council and Tourism NI, this year’s event hopes to attract over 10,000. TITANIC CÉILÍ will feature live traditional music and céilí dancing throughout the afternoon, creating an energetic and welcoming atmospheres for all ages and abilities; called by céilí dance master Ronán Eastwood.
On the main music stage, there will be performances by West Kerry’s rip-roaring trad band Pólca 4, the exquisite Meadhbh Walsh of Cork, Belfast’s own Róise McHugh, Down Academy Pipes and Drums, feel-good ensemble Belfast Ukulele Jam, Belfast Wren Boys who continue the old traditions of mumming & rhyming and Glengormley School of Traditional Music, an internationally recognised, award-winning, volunteer-based, community school with a pupil population of approximately 270 pupils.
Families can enjoy a range of activities, including a bodhrán circle with legendary bodhrán maestro Fergal O'Brien, face painting, children’s maritime art workshops, and more. A variety of delicious food and drink vendors will also on-site. Visitors can also experience a live traditional music session at the historic SS Nomadic, adding a unique maritime element to the day’s festivities.
Artistic Director of Belfast TradFest, Dónal O'Connor, shared his excitement about the upcoming Titanic Céilí, reflecting on the event's historical and cultural significance. He remarked:
“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. 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.”
He continued: “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’.”
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. 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."
TITANIC CÉILÍ is made possible through the generous support of Maritime Belfast Trust, Belfast City Council, Arts Council of Northern Ireland, Tourism Northern Ireland & Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann as well as volunteers and the dedicated efforts of the team and board of trustees of Belfast TradFest
Take a look at pics from last year 👇
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