Dance Halls of East Belfast, and Beyond

Thursday 26 February 2026, 11am

FREE

This richly illustrated talk explores the dance halls that used to be scattered across East Belfast and beyond, from the luxurious Plaza, with its revolving stage, to ‘The Hooley’ and ‘The Hut’!

Presented by the Strand’s Heritage Officer, Rosie Hickey, who reflects on the rise - and decline - of these important social spaces, and explores what is left of them today. She also highlights the fascinating parallels between Belfast’s ‘palaces of dance’ and its ‘picture palaces’.

Reminiscence positively encouraged!

Part of our ‘Heritage Talks’ programme:  free talks about the heritage of the local area, followed by a cuppa and a chat. Hosted by the Strand at our ‘pop-up’ venue at Belmont Bowling Club.  Made possible by The National Lottery Heritage Fund