Scope
Description
Belfast City Council is undertaking pre-market engagement to inform the procurement of Programme Curation & Management Services for the Fringe Programme of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2026. This historic event will take place from 2nd–9th August 2026 and marks the first time the Fleadh will be hosted in Belfast.
The Fringe Programme will animate the city with inclusive, creative, and celebratory events that complement the Comhaltas core programme. The Council intends to procure one or more contractors to deliver the following lots:
Lot 1: Main Stage @ City Hall (Gig Rig) – Curation & Management
Lot 2: City Centre Programme – Curation & Management
Lot 3: City-wide Programme – Curation & Management
Each lot will involve the design, delivery, and management of cultural programming aligned with the Fleadh ethos, including artist engagement, production management, accessibility measures, and community collaboration.
Total value (estimated)
- £400,000 excluding VAT
- £480,000 including VAT
Below the relevant threshold
Contract dates (estimated)
- 31 January 2026 to 10 August 2026
- 6 months, 11 days
Main procurement category
Services
CPV classifications
- 79952100 - Cultural event organisation services
Contract locations
- UKN - Northern Ireland
Engagement
Engagement deadline
14 November 2025
Engagement process description
Interested suppliers are invited to submit an expression of interest by emailing the Corporate Procurement Services team at cps@belfastcity.gov.uk. Upon receipt, a brief scope of requirements document will be issued to help suppliers assess their capacity to deliver the proposed services.
Participation
Particular suitability
- Small and medium-sized enterprises (SME)
- Voluntary, community and social enterprises (VCSE)
Submission
Publication date of tender notice (estimated)
30 January 2026
Procedure
Special regime
Light touch
Contracting authority
Belfast City Council
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PQXY-5321-CGZM
9-21 Adelaide Street
Belfast
BT2 8DJ
United Kingdom
Email: cps@belfastcity.gov.uk
Region: UKN06 - Belfast
Organisation type: Public authority - sub-central government
Devolved regulations that apply: Northern Ireland