LCN Awards 2026 move to iconic Europa Hotel Belfast

The highly anticipated LCN Awards 2026 are set to return bigger and better than ever, celebrating the very best in Northern Ireland’s hospitality and leisure industries.

For the first time, the prestigious awards will take place at the Europa Hotel, Belfast, marking an exciting new chapter for the event. Scheduled for 12 June 2026, the iconic city-centre venue will host over 500 industry professionals for an unforgettable evening of recognition, networking and celebration in one of Belfast’s most renowned hotels.

The move to the Europa Hotel reflects the continued growth and prestige of the LCN Awards, providing a central, high-profile setting befitting the industry’s leading figures. With its rich history, modern facilities and reputation for hosting major events, the Europa offers the perfect backdrop for Northern Ireland’s biggest hospitality awards night.

Featuring an exciting line-up of categories, including Best Food to Go and Gastro Pub of the Year awards, the event will shine a spotlight on the innovation, dedication and excellence driving the sector forward. Sponsorship opportunities remain highly sought after, offering brands a unique platform to connect with influential decision-makers across the hospitality and leisure industries.

Bill Penton, Managing Director of Penton Publications and Licensed & Catering News, highlighted the importance of the awards and the new venue:

“The LCN Awards are the ultimate celebration of excellence in Northern Ireland’s hospitality sector. As the industry continues to evolve, it’s fitting that the awards do too. Hosting the event at the Europa Hotel in 2026 reflects the scale, quality and ambition of the sector, and we’re looking forward to an outstanding night of celebration.”

Michael Deane, winner of Restaurant of the Year and Lifetime Achievement Award 2025, also reflected on the significance of industry recognition:

“I am especially delighted for both my personal Lifetime Achievement Award and the Restaurant of the Year award for mrDeanes in the company of my own peers… It’s a total indictment of the dedication and hard work of each member of the team at Deanes.”

With a new venue, new categories and the same commitment to celebrating excellence, the LCN Awards 2026 at the Europa Hotel Belfast promise to be an unmissable event on the hospitality calendar.

Entry is free – you can enter the awards HERE.