TITANIC CÉILÍ
Titanic slipways
Sun 26th July, 2026
TIME
1pm
TICKETS
Free (register for free tickets)
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
This event is open to all ages
The Titanic Slipways are located directly behind the Titanic Belfast building in the heart of the Titanic Quarter.
Celebrate the opening weekend of Belfast TradFest with Ireland’s biggest outdoor céilí at the iconic Titanic Slipways on Belfast’s Maritime Mile.
This large-scale afternoon céilí promises lively tunes, dancing and plenty of craic in one of Belfast’s most historic settings.
Delivered in association with Maritime Belfast Trust, this year’s event is expected to attract more than 10,000 people once again. Titanic Céilí will feature live traditional music and céilí dancing throughout the afternoon, creating an energetic and welcoming atmosphere for all ages and abilities, led by renowned céilí dance caller Ronán Eastwood.
Whether you’re an experienced céilí dancer or simply looking to soak up the atmosphere, everyone is welcome to join the fun as music and dance take over Belfast’s waterfront.
Line-up
Blackwater Céilí Band
Niamh McGlinchey
Jack Warnock
Down Academy Pipe Band
Cleamairí Feirste | Belfast Wren Boys
Causeway Shantymen
Selkies Sea Shanty Women
Buoys of Ballisodare
Glengormley School of Traditional Music
Alongside the main céilí, visitors can enjoy bodhrán circles, children’s maritime art workshops, face painting, a funfair, a food village, and live music performances on the SS Nomadic stage.
Families can take part in a range of activities, including a bodhrán circle led by legendary bodhrán maestro Fergal O’Brien, face painting, children’s maritime art workshops and more. There will also be a food village with a variety of food and drink vendors on site throughout the day.
Artistic Director of Belfast TradFest, Dónal O’Connor, reflects on the event’s historical and cultural significance:
“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.
The Titanic Slipways, once the launchpad for one of the world’s most famous ships, will come alive again 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 our 8th annual festival, and we hope it marks a further step towards a future attempt at hosting the World’s Biggest Céilí.”
Titanic Céilí is made possible through the generous support of Maritime Belfast Trust, together with the volunteers, staff and Board of Trustees of Belfast TradFest.
FULL PROGRAMME OF TALKS, LECTURES, WORKSHOPS, SCREENINGS & THE DUNVILLE’S IRISH WHISKEY SESSION TRAIL TO BE ANNOUNCED SOON.
SIGN UP TO OUR MAILING LIST FOR PRIORITY ACCESS AND FESTIVAL UPDATES.