WALKING through the centre of Belfast on a normal afternoon, I try to imagine what it will be like next week when around 800,000 visitors descend upon the city for the Fleadh.

The streets will be significantly more crowded, traffic will probably be slower, and our public transport system will most likely be stretched to its limit.

The event is a huge undertaking for our small city. We are hosting the biggest celebration of Irish music and culture in the world and it’s a true sign of not only how far we’ve come, but where we see our future.

It’s a long overdue chance for Belfast to step up and show off.

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It’s rare in life that you’re ever truly ready when the big moments arrive and that could be said for Belfast as the countdown to the Fleadh begins.

There’s been a massive clean-up operation, the grounds of City Hall are in the process of being transformed into a live events venue, and signs are being erected giving a ‘Fáilte’ to........

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