About

The Belfast Children's Festival 2026 programme focuses on international talent, accessible performances, Irish premieres and new creations from local artists. A festival filled with joy, entertainment and magical experiences. Boasting over 100 events and performances to suit everyone, from the youngest to the not-so-young!

Highlights of this year's festival include:

'The Little Prince', from The Egg Theatre and Toby Thompson in Bath, is full of magic and entertaining for children and adults alike. Based on Saint-Exupéry's timeless classis, follow The Little Prince as he wanders the universe in search of the true meaning of friendship, makes friends, learns things, and notices the most important things in life.

Audiences will be splitting their sides laughing at the antics of Circus duo By Trial and Error, from Cirque Content Pour Peu in France, which brings the funny side to drama and team-working. In this acrobatic tale of two clumsy circus artists, what's the next move? Is this rehearsed? You will be constantly surprised by the antics, skill and charm of the performers!

The Festival brings kindness and love to audiences, wrapped up the beautiful 'Be Kind,' an intimate circus theatre experience for babies aged 6-18 months. In this sensory performance of sound, colour and movement, from Weisse Circustheater, based in the Netherlands, two circus artists take a sensory journey where little ones are introduced to acrobatics and juggling.

The Unexpected Gift, from Barrowland Ballet in Scotland, creates a multi-sensory wonderland that celebrates the art of play and curiosity. This interactive and inclusive dance-theatre performance is made especially for and with children with complex needs ages 7-15 years.

This year's festival also features local artists bringing Irish premieres including Circusful working with Emmen Donnelly in their piece IN STASIS. There will be many free events and workshops for children and their grown-ups with our Festival Family Day Out taking place on Saturday 7 March.

Audiences will welcome the return of festival favourite's Volume Control, Open Mic and Acoustic Picnic at the Oh Yeah Centre, and Baby Rave in the Crescent Art Centre!

The full festival lineup is available in the link, book early to avoid disappointment!