Full Statement: Organisers Explain Why There Will Be No Official All-Ireland Fleadh Marching Band Parade
A statement was provided to Marching Bands Ireland on the 24th July in relation to queries around the organisation of the All Ireland Fleadh Marching Band parade:
“We can confirm that there will be no official All-Ireland Fleadh parade as part of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2026 in Belfast.”
“This decision was taken following detailed operational planning and consideration of a range of factors associated with delivering an event of the scale and complexity of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in Belfast.”
“While there will be no official Fleadh parade in 2026, we want to emphasise that the Marching Bands Competition will proceed as planned on Sunday 9th August at Titanic Slipways and will remain an important part of the programme. We look forward to welcoming bands, participants and spectators to Belfast and to showcasing the high standards of musical talent and performance associated with this long-standing competition.”
“We recognise the important place that parade traditions have held within previous Fleadh events. Our focus remains on delivering a successful, inclusive and memorable Fleadh experience for competitors, visitors, performers and the wider community.”
Full reaction to this statement here.