The first All Ireland Fleadh in Belfast ended in the early hours of Monday morning with organisers saying they were overwhelmed by the positive response they received from all communities.
It is estimated that there were more than a million people in the city centre during the eight days of the fleadh.
At least 4,000 were still in the grounds of Belfast City Hall at 01:00 BST to hear the closing speeches and final tunes.
Niall McClean, co-chair of the organising committee, told the crowd they were all part of an historic event.
He said: “We’ve done something that has never, ever happened in this city before. We’ve brought every single community together – and everybody has absolutely loved it.”
McClean added that it has “put a permanent smile on my face. I’m the happiest man in Belfast. Roll on 2027”.
“What an incredible week. Everyone I have spoken to has had an amazing time here in Belfast, thousands of people all on a high.
“Belfast has shone, the world has come to our doorstep, bringing the biggest numbers ever seen for a Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann.
“I’m so proud of our branch and all our members, and what we have achieved together. We dared to dream and those dreams have come true.”
To loud applause, he ended by saying: “Well done Belfast, we’ll see you next year.”
The All Ireland Fleadh returns to the city from 1 to 8 August 2027.