The Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in Belfast has enlisted more than 1,300 volunteers, aged 17–80, to help run the eight-day festival until 9 August. Recruited by Volunteer Now with Belfast City Council and Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, volunteers in yellow hats provide directions, information and a warm welcome. International and local volunteers praised the music and atmosphere, and organisers estimate the event could deliver about £53 million to Belfast’s economy.
From Florida to the Fleadh: Meet the 1,300 Volunteers Powering Belfast’s Music Festival
Kevin McVeigh played a key role as a welcome ambassador at the opening ceremony of the Fleadh on Sunday afternoon [BBC]
More than 1,300 volunteers, aged from 17 to 80, are giving their time free of charge to support Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in Belfast, which runs until 9 August. Easy to spot in yellow bucket hats and matching T-shirts, volunteers are posted across the city centre to provide directions, local information and a warm welcome to visitors.
Volunteer Stories
Addison McGowan travelled roughly 1,490 miles from Florida as part of a study-abroad group from Florida Gulf Coast University. This is her first trip outside the USA and she says she has fallen for traditional Irish music and the lively pub atmosphere.
It’s awesome. I love seeing all the instruments, I love the music. I don’t mind the rainy weather — everyone’s admiring everyone and it feels like such a safe place to be; it’s so heartwarming.
Kevin McVeigh, a local volunteer, served as a welcome ambassador at the opening ceremony. He describes volunteering as the "social glue" that helps build community and says his role — handing out leaflets, answering questions and giving directions — is about making visitors feel at ease.
Other volunteers highlight the festival’s energy and community spirit. Sharon Hackett, signed up for multiple shifts, praised the buzz in the city centre and said she wanted to be part of Belfast’s positive moment. Ace Ward, a fluent Irish speaker, looked forward to greeting visitors in Irish, while veteran volunteer Camilla Reynolds emphasised the joy of connecting through music.
Sharon Hackett says the atmosphere in the volunteer hub has been really positive [BBC]
Organisation and Impact
The volunteer drive was organised by Volunteer Now in partnership with Belfast City Council and Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, the society for the musicians of Ireland. Lyndsey Armstrong of Volunteer Now described the response as "incredible," noting a wide diversity in age, background and ethnicity among applicants. Around 90% of volunteers are from the greater Belfast area, with some international participants travelling from places such as Florida and France.
Organisers say volunteers add an important, welcoming presence and are not intended to replace paid staff. Toby Brusey of Volunteer Now said the festival could not happen without people donating their time and hopes this momentum will encourage more volunteering ahead of the Fleadh’s scheduled return to Belfast in 2027.
Economic Effect: Organisers estimate the eight-day festival — billed as the world’s largest celebration of Irish music and culture — could bring roughly £53 million to Belfast’s economy.
The atmosphere, local pride and community engagement created by volunteers are central to the Fleadh experience, helping visitors navigate events while showcasing Belfast on an international stage.
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