Belfast Fleadh sparks calls to pedestrianise the city after million-strong party

Belfast Fleadh leaves a big question

It is understood that around a million visitors descended on the city for Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann.

The Fleadh began on 2 August and ran until Sunday night, technically spilling over into Monday morning as thousands refused to let it end. More than 1,300 volunteers, ranging from teenagers to pensioners, worked the streets in their distinctive yellow bucket hats and T-shirts, handing out brochures and welcoming tourists.

What the Belfast Fleadh showed the city

For many, the week offered a glimpse of a different Belfast. Volunteer Davy Taylor, who travelled from Co Derry, said the atmosphere was something to behold, and that older residents had been struck by the transformation.

"It would bring a tear to your eye, the vibrancy in the city," Taylor said. "Some of the older people have been telling me they remember Belfast when it was so dark, and this is so joyful."