[1][2] Athletes from Northern Ireland are also eligible to compete at the British Indoor Athletics Championships, which has a higher standard of competition, though many opt to compete at the Irish event for personal or logistical reasons.

Typically contested in February, the competition features championships for both men and women, with 28 events divided equally between the sexes.

The event has had a regular title sponsor, with Woodie's DIY serving from 2007 to 2014 and Irish Life/GloHealth from 2015 to present.

The Odyssey Arena in Belfast became a regular host after that period, holding all but one of the championships from 2002 to 2012.

The AIT International Arena in Athlone served as the host venue from 2012 to 2016.