The Ballyhackamore Working Mens Institute & Club, often affectionately known as "The Ballyhack," is a longstanding cultural and social hub located in the Ballyhackamore area of East Belfast, Northern Ireland. Established in the early 20th century, the club was originally founded to provide a meeting place for local working men, coinciding with the growth of the Ballyhackamore community during Belfast’s industrial expansion. Over the decades, it evolved from a traditional social club into a vibrant venue for live music, community events, and nightlife, embracing more inclusive membership while maintaining its historic atmosphere.

The venue is recognized locally for its old-world charm, complete with ornate woodwork, vintage memorabilia, and a well-worn dance floor that has seen countless revelers over the years. Ballyhackamore Working Mens Institute & Club has played a significant role in supporting grassroots music and culture in Belfast, serving as a launchpad for emerging Irish talent and a welcoming stage for international acts. Its reputation as an authentic and unpretentious spot has endeared it to generations of locals.

Structurally, while the exterior has been well preserved to retain its historical façade, the interior has seen periodic refurbishments, especially in the 1980s and again more recently with upgrades to lighting and sound to accommodate modern live performances. The club has not relocated from its original site, ensuring that it remains a tangible piece of local heritage amid the changing cityscape. Notable artists who have performed at Ballyhackamore Working Mens Institute & Club over the years include Van Morrison, a Belfast native who frequently references his East Belfast roots; The Undertones, the Derry punk band who played here during their early years; Philomena Begley, affectionately known as the Queen of Irish Country; and more recently, rising acts such as SOAK and Joshua Burnside.

International performers have also graced its stage, including visiting blues legend Seasick Steve and Scottish folk singer Eddi Reader, contributing to the club’s growing reputation as an essential destination for live music in Belfast.