Belfast International Arts Festival
Belfast, Northern Ireland (Belfast), United Kingdom
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🎟 Ticketed (£10 - £80)
FestivalAtlas
An autumn arts festival presenting world-class dance, theatre, music, visual arts and literature across Belfast venues. Established in 1962 (as Belfast Festival at Queen’s), it now runs about 3 weeks (mid-Oct to early Nov) showcasing international performers and local artists on bold contemporary themes. It has become a signature cultural event for Belfast, featuring large-scale spectacles and community arts projects as well as fringe performances 1.
As Northern Ireland’s longest-running arts festival, it reflects Belfast’s cosmopolitan arts scene. Originally tied to Queen’s University, it now involves the whole city. It brings global works to Northern Ireland audiences (e.g., London theatre companies) while also curating locally-rooted content, helping define Belfast’s modern cultural identity.
Venues and routes
MAC Belfast · Belfast
The dates that shape the visit.
Day still being verified
Open-air performances, street theatre, bands and food stalls in Belfast’s historic arts quarter.
Walking tour of interactive sculptures, light projections, or exhibitions commissioned for the festival.
A high-profile theatre or dance production featuring top international or local talent.
A compact reference once the trip is real.
Tickets required · Typical price: £10 - £80
High crowds