Free Activities Across Belfast to Launch European City of Sport 2026

Belfast is set to begin its European City of Sport 2026 celebrations with a packed weekend of free activities for residents of all ages and abilities.

What Is the On Your Marks! Open Weekend?

The open weekend invites residents to drop into their local leisure or community centre and take part in a wide range of sports and physical activities – completely free of charge.

No previous experience is needed, and sessions are designed to be welcoming, inclusive, and accessible to everyone.

Activities on Offer

Across the two days, more than 90 sessions will be available, including:

• Pickleball
• Fencing
• Family swimming sessions
• Inclusive climbing
• Tennis
• Bike skills
• Martial arts taster sessions

Activities are suitable for children, adults, families, and older people, as well as those with additional needs.

Participating Leisure and Community Centres

Events will run across multiple venues throughout the city, including:

• Lisnasharragh Leisure Centre
• Andersonstown Leisure Centre
• Brook Leisure Centre
• Olympia Leisure Centre
• Grove Wellbeing Centre
• Indoor Tennis Centre
• Ozone Complex and Shankill
• Clonduff Community Centre

This city-wide approach ensures communities across Belfast can take part close to home.

How to Book Your Free Sessions

While some activities may allow drop-ins, residents are encouraged to pre-book to secure their place.

• Over 90 sessions are available across the weekend
• Booking is open now
• Sessions can be reserved at:
   https://www.belfastcity.gov.uk/cityofsport

Civic Leaders Welcome the Launch

Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Tracy Kelly, said the open weekend is a chance for communities to play an active role in a landmark year for the city.

She noted that when ACES awarded Belfast the European City of Sport title in November 2025, judges praised the city’s passion for sport and willingness to get involved.

The weekend, she said, allows residents to try something new, explore local facilities, and discover long-term opportunities in their area.

GLL: Making Sport Accessible for Everyone

Gareth Kirk, Senior Regional Director at GLL, said the organisation is proud to continue its long-standing partnership with Belfast City Council.

He highlighted that the open weekend reflects a shared commitment to making sport fun, inclusive, and accessible across all 16 centres in the city.

The aim, he said, is to help people get moving, feel good, and be part of a healthier, more active Belfast.

Belfast’s European City of Sport 2026

Belfast is one of 21 European Cities of Sport for 2026, following a two-day inspection visit by ACES judges in November 2025.

This is the first time Belfast has received the title, which recognises cities that actively promote sport through:

• Investment in facilities
• Major and community-based events
• Support for grassroots clubs

Further events, programmes, and participation opportunities will be added throughout 2026.

Find Out More

• Belfast City of Sport programme:
   https://www.belfastcity.gov.uk/cityofsport
• Leisure centre memberships and activities:
   https://www.better.org.uk/belfast