Belfast Christmas Market Dates, Location and Tips
Explore the ultimate winter wonderland in the heart of Belfast, featuring captivating Christmas Markets and thrilling funfair rides.
Is Belfast a good place to visit during Christmas?
Yes, Belfast is an excellent destination for a Christmas getaway. The city is filled with festive cheer, offering charming shopping centres, high street stores, and the bustling Belfast Christmas Market. You can enjoy cosy pubs, cocktail bars, and beer gardens, while exploring the city's attractions, like The Entries and the City Hall flea market. With numerous events, including the chance to meet Santa and experience traditional Irish music, Belfast truly embraces the Christmas spirit.
Where is the Belfast Christmas market?
The Belfast Christmas markets will take place within the grounds of Belfast City Hall at Donegall Square in the heart of the city. The City Hall is easily accessible by foot, public transport, or car.
When does the Belfast Christmas Market start?
The Belfast Christmas Market will run from 16th November until 22nd December 2024. From Monday to Wednesday, the market opens at 10 am, concluding at 8 pm (bars until 9 pm). Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays extend the festive joy until 10 pm, with bars closing at 11 pm. Sundays offer a leisurely experience, running from 12 noon to 6 pm. Marking the festive finale, the market bids farewell at 6 pm on Friday 22nd December.
Do you need a ticket?
No tickets are required for entry to the Belfast Christmas Market 2024. This festive attraction welcomes visitors free of charge, allowing you to partake in the seasonal merriment without incurring any admission fees.
How to reach the Belfast Christmas Market?
The Belfast Christmas Market is located at Belfast City Hall, in Donegall Square, and is easily accessible by various modes of transport.
- By train: Belfast's central railway station is just a short walk from City Hall, making it a convenient option for those travelling by train.
- By bus: The Belfast Metro bus services run throughout the city, and late-night services are available on weekends during the festive season. A Nightmover fare costs £6 for a single journey, ensuring a safe and easy return home.
- By car: If you're driving, convenient parking options are available nearby. The Montgomery Street Car Park and Q-Park Victoria Square are both within walking distance of the market, making it easy to park and enjoy your visit.
Popular attractions at the Belfast Christmas market
During Christmas, Belfast transforms itself into a festive hub with enchanting Christmas markets and thrilling fairground rides.
Family Activities
If you're looking for fun family activities, the Belfast Christmas Market is the perfect place to be. Kids can enjoy the festive atmosphere on the vintage carousel and other fairground rides, making for a day full of excitement. While you take in the sights and do some shopping, why not treat everyone to a warm cup of hot chocolate? And, of course, no trip to the market is complete without visiting Santa's Grotto - no need to book in advance, just walk in and let the kids meet Santa for that extra bit of holiday magic.
Food and Drink Delights
Get ready for a foodie adventure at the Belfast Christmas Market, where you'll find flavours from all over the world. From French crêpes and Dutch pancakes to Belgian chocolates, there's something to satisfy every craving. For something a little different, why not try a wild boar or crocodile burger? Pair it with a glass of Glühwein from Germany or enjoy a drink at one of the lively bars. The outdoor food court is packed with tempting treats like hog roast, baklava, and artisanal sandwiches, while traditional stalls serve up bratwurst and fries. It's a festive feast you won't want to miss!
Stalls
The Belfast Christmas Market is perfect for finding unique gifts, with over 100 chalets offering everything from handcrafted pottery to traditional Christmas decorations. You can pick up locally made jewellery, prints of Belfast, and even hand-poured candles and soaps. There are also wooden toys and ornaments for the little ones, making it great for family shopping. With such a variety of stalls, you're sure to find something special for yourself or as a gift.
Where to stay in Belfast?
Belfast boasts a compact city centre, stretching from the Grand Opera House to the Waterfront Hall, with Belfast City Hall located between them. The area is easily explored on foot, though convenient bus services are available for those who prefer them.
To fully embrace the enchanting Christmas atmosphere, choose accommodation near the city centre, the heart of festive celebrations. Take advantage of exclusive discounts on hotel stays with Wowcher's Belfast Christmas market getaway deals, ensuring a memorable and festive experience at a great price in the city's centre.
Other things to do in Belfast
From festive events to scenic walks, Belfast offers a variety of activities to enjoy this winter. Whether you're exploring its vibrant history or taking in stunning outdoor views, there's something for everyone.
- Christmas lights switch-on 2024: To officially kick-start the festive period, attend the event on Saturday, 16th November and admire the festive decorations at Victoria Square, Queen's Arcade, and the Titanic attraction.
- Candlelight concerts: Experience live musicians performing soul-stirring tributes to iconic artists like ABBA, Queen, and Coldplay, all set against the serene backdrop of venues like St Anne's Cathedral and Titanic Belfast, bathed in the gentle glow of candlelight for a truly enchanting evening.
- Scenic walks: Stroll through the picturesque Lagan Valley Regional Park, the tranquil Jordanstown Loughshore Park, and the beautiful Rowallane Garden, each offering stunning winter landscapes to enjoy.
- Maritime Mile: Follow this historic trail along Belfast's waterfront, where you can explore the city's shipbuilding past, including the iconic Titanic, and learn about its maritime heritage.
- Outdoor adventures: Discover the magical Gruffalo trails at Colin Glen Forest Park or immerse yourself in the peaceful woodland surroundings of Stormont Estate, perfect for outdoor exploration.
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