FOLK iN FUSION launches Belfast’s week of global folk music in spectacular style. This one-night-only concert at the Waterfront Hall brings together legends, Grammy winners, and rising stars for a night that celebrates the power of tradition meeting innovation.

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Among the featured artists is Crystal Gayle, the country music icon whose timeless voice has captivated audiences worldwide for decades. She joins an extraordinary lineup that bridges continents and genres. Rissi Palmer, celebrated Americana artist and host of the acclaimed Color Me Country podcast, shines a spotlight on underrepresented voices in roots music. Rising Nashville songwriter Dee White, acclaimed for his soulful blend of country and Americana, brings fresh energy to the stage.

The evening also includes Ron Block, Grammy-winning banjoist from Alison Krauss & Union Station, and mandolin prodigy Wyatt Ellis, already hailed as one of the most exciting young talents in American folk, and joined by acclaimed singer-songwriter Jessica Willis Fisher.

placeholder image — Folk In Fusion comes to Belfast

From Ireland, Wallis Bird delivers her award-winning songwriting and electrifying stage presence, while David Keenan brings his poetic lyricism and powerful live performance, marking him as one of Ireland’s most compelling voices of his generation. Clare Sands, the boundary-breaking Irish multi-instrumentalist whose music blends traditional roots with fearless modernity will also be there. Legendary piper Paddy Keenan and master fiddler Gerry O’Connor anchor the Irish tradition, and uilleann piper Brendan McCreanor, co-founder of FOLK iN FUSION and Your Roots Are Showing – Ireland’s Music Conference.

From Nashville to Belfast – Music Without Borders!

Now in its fourth year, Your Roots Are Showing is Ireland’s only dedicated folk, roots, and traditional music conference. It brings together artists, academics, and industry leaders from over 20 countries for five days of showcases, panels, masterclasses, and late-night sessions that spark connection and collaboration.

In 2026, the conference makes its Belfast debut, running January 14–18 at ICC Belfast. The week begins the night before with FOLK iN FUSION at the Waterfront Hall on January 13 – a one-night-only opening concert that sets the tone for the days ahead.

With thanks to our funders. This conference is supported by the Belfast & Northern Ireland conference subvention scheme from Belfast City Council & Tourism Northern Ireland, administered by Visit Belfast.

Buy tickets here: https://www.waterfront.co.uk/what-s-on/folk-in-fusion and check out Your Roots Are Showing: www.showingroots.com