Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
Fest gives city boost at Traditionally quiet time
If it feels like the city becomes like a barren wasteland of craic during summer then Belfast Tradfest organisers would beg to differ.
The festival, which runs from July 23-30, is now in its fifth year of bringing the very best in international talent to these shores.
Among this year’s many highlights – there are more than 200 events to check out – are personal faves Four Men And A Dog, Scots indie folk band Elephant Sessions and, in partnership with Belfast Pride, The Black Box’s Pride Ceili.
Donal O’connor, Belfast Tradfest Artistic Director, said: “Our fifth edition is a hugely significant occasion for Belfast Tradfest, especially considering the pandemic years and the challenges posed by recent cuts to arts funding.
“We will, of course, be paying homage to the musicians, bands and artists who have contributed, supported and inspired the festival over the years, but importantly this is also a moment to look to the future.
“Belfast Tradfest is showcasing some of the best music these islands have to offer.
“Established and emerging musicians come here to create and perform and audiences are attracted to enjoy the cultural exponents of our city at first hand.
“Sharing our music and our arts is a vital part of our human existence, connecting us and enriching lives, and we cherish that. We are so excited to bring this full programme of events to the people of Belfast and to invite many new visitors to our city from all over the world.”
And Belfast Lord Mayor Tina Black added: “For one week each July, it brings our beautiful city alive with traditional music and dance and celebrates our undeniable talent.
“It’s the true embodiment of our status as a UNESCO City of Music. I wish everyone involved the very best of luck.” Check out belfasttraditionalmusic.com...