Westlife Announces The Residency: A 25th Anniversary Celebration Across Dublin and Belfast
Westlife fans have a reason to mark their calendars as the iconic Irish boy band reveals a special 25th anniversary plan: The Residency. The concert series will light up Dublin and Belfast next September and October 2026, serving as the first leg of a world tour marking a quarter of a century since their rise to global fame. The five-night Dublin run and the three-night Belfast run promise a nostalgic yet vibrant showcase of the duo of classic hits and fan favorites that have defined Westlife’s enduring career.
The Dublin Kickoff: Five Nights at the 3Arena
The initial stretch of shows will take place at Dublin’s 3Arena from Tuesday, 22 September through Saturday, 26 September 2026. The announcement, shared by the band on Instagram, frames Dublin as the series’ “home city” in what they describe as a celebratory homecoming. For many fans, the five consecutive nights at one venue symbolize a rare opportunity to hear Westlife perform their greatest hits in a concentrated, festive setting. The setlist is expected to blend timeless ballads with newer material, all delivered with the harmonies that have become synonymous with the group’s sound.
Belfast’s SSE Arena Dates: A Three-Night Celebration
Following the Dublin run, Westlife will head to Belfast for three consecutive nights at the SSE Arena on 27, 28 and 29 October 2026. The Belfast dates extend the celebrations of their 25-year journey and offer fans in Northern Ireland a chance to experience the energy and communal joy that has powered the band’s live performances for decades. The band teased that these gigs will spotlight their biggest ever songs while allowing for fresh moments within a familiar, celebratory atmosphere.
Why This Tour Feels Special
Since reuniting in 2019, Westlife has played more than 200 shows across 30 countries, selling millions of tickets and cementing a legacy that transcends generations. The 3Arena residency will bring to life a milestone several decades in the making, with the band describing the tour as a heartfelt thank you to fans who have stood by them through the years. “No better feeling than coming home to Dublin,” said band members Shane, Nicky, and Kian, underscoring the deep connections that form the backbone of Westlife’s enduring appeal.
A Record of Success and a Commitment to Fans
Westlife’s career has produced 16 Irish No. 1 singles, 14 UK No. 1 singles, and more than 55 million records sold. Their live history is equally impressive, with more than 6 million concert tickets sold worldwide and headline sets at iconic Irish venues like Croke Park Stadium and Aviva Stadium. The 3Arena residency will add a new, historic chapter to a catalog of standout performances, including nights at Páirc Uí Chaoimh and Markievicz Park in Sligo. With the band promising to perform their signature tracks—such as Swear It Again, Flying Without Wings, and You Raise Me Up—alongside career-spanning favorites, the concerts are positioned as must-see events for longtime followers and new fans alike.
Ticket Details and What to Expect
Tickets for the Dublin and Belfast gigs go on sale Thursday, 23 October at 9am via Ticketmaster. While the exact setlists remain under wraps, fans can anticipate a production that emphasizes connectivity and shared experience, with the band’s high-energy performances and soaring harmonies at the core. The Residency is described as a chance to celebrate a quarter century of Westlife’s evolution—from chart-topping singles to acclaimed live performances—making it a standout moment in the band’s ongoing history.
Looking Ahead
As the Dublin and Belfast dates get set, fans across Ireland and the broader UK are likely to look forward to additional stops on the forthcoming world tour. The 3Arena and SSE Arena concerts mark a confident start, signaling that Westlife’s commitment to celebrating 25 years of music will be both expansive and intimate—an homage to the band’s roots and a preview of what’s to come in their global journey.
