Belfast Crowned European City of Sport 2026: Get Ready to Get Active!

Get ready to lace up your trainers, cheer on our local heroes, and discover new ways to stay active! Belfast has officially been awarded the prestigious title of European City of Sport for 2026, promising a year packed with exciting events, programmes, and opportunities for everyone in our community, including right here in North Belfast.

This fantastic recognition means that throughout 2026, our city will be buzzing with activities designed to encourage participation, promote healthy lifestyles, and celebrate the power of sport at all levels. Here’s a sneak peek at some of the highlights planned:

Get Moving with Running and Cycling:

If you've always wanted to try running, the popular ‘Jog Belfast’ programme is perfect for you. This ten-week initiative is designed to gently introduce beginners to running, with various dates and locations planned across 2026, making it easy for North Belfast residents to join in. For the younger generation, free ‘Learn to Cycle’ courses are available at various community centres throughout February 2026, helping children gain confidence on two wheels.

Try Something New at Leisure Centres:

Looking to sample different sports without a big commitment? Our local leisure centres across Belfast will be hosting £1 taster sessions during the half-term week, Monday 9 to Friday 13 February 2026. It’s a brilliant chance to try out new activities and find your new favourite hobby.

Exciting Competitions and Fixtures:

The thrill of competition will be high with major events like the Ulster Schools Cup rugby competition, open to Belfast schools. Matches will take place throughout February and March 2026 at various locations. Don't miss the Ulster GAA Championships! The throw-in for this year’s competition is set for Sunday, 8 February 2026, featuring Belfast clubs competing across various locations throughout February and March.

Cheer on our city’s ice hockey heroes as the Belfast Giants play their Elite Ice Hockey League (EIHL) fixtures from February to April 2026 at the SSE Arena. Later in the spring, ahead of this summer’s Commonwealth Games, Belfast will host the British Isles Indoor Bowls Championships from Monday 9 to Friday 13 March 2026 at the Belfast Indoor Bowls Centre, Shaw’s Bridge, where top UK bowlers will compete.

Youth Athletics Take Centre Stage:

Young athletes from P5, P6, and P7 can look forward to the finale of the Flavahan’s Athletics NI Primary Schools Cross Country League on 27 February 2026, showcasing top talent. Following this, the annual Belfast Schools Cross Country Championships for P6 and P7 pupils will take place throughout March and April 2026 at various locations, with individual prizes up for grabs.

This is just a glimpse of the incredible sporting calendar for 2026. Keep an eye on our website and local announcements for more details on how you can get involved, whether as a participant, volunteer, or spectator. Let's make the most of Belfast’s year as European City of Sport and celebrate the vibrant, active spirit of our community!