Things to do in Belfast at Christmas
Originally published in House Sitting Magazine
Belfast at Christmas was an unexpected pleasure that I didn’t anticipate. We had an absolutely magical Christmas walking around the brilliantly decorated Belfast streets in Northern Ireland.
Belfast is one of the hottest cities to visit these days. It has left the “troubles” far behind and has one of the hippest vibes on the planet. National Geographic Travel Magazine has declared that Belfast is an absolute “must-see” destination, and as a house sitter, I couldn’t agree more.
Things to do at Christmas in Belfast
The global Belfast Christmas returns to City Hall Gardens, bringing with it a traditional taste of Christmas. From 6 pm until 9 pm, you can enjoy an array of dazzling street performances, music and illuminations. Take the kids to watch the live window animation in the windows of M&S and Boots on Donegall Place.
Christmas in Belfast 2024 – Frequently Asked Questions
When and where will the Belfast Christmas Market be held in 2024?
The Belfast Christmas Market in 2024 will take place in the heart of the city in front of City Hall as usual.Stay tuned for more details on the specific dates and location.
What are the best places for Christmas shopping in Belfast this festive season?
For those looking to indulge in some festive retail therapy, Belfast offers a plethora of options. From high-end stores at Victoria Square to unique finds at St George’s Market, you’ll find the perfect gifts for your loved ones.
Will Belfast City Hall host special Christmas events in 2024?
Belfast City Hall is known for its stunning Christmas decorations and seasonal events. In 2024, you can expect a range of activities, from afternoon tea sessions to festive concerts, all set against the backdrop of this historic landmark.
Can you suggest an ideal Christmas itinerary for exploring Belfast?
If you’re planning a trip to Belfast during the festive season, make sure to include visits to the Christmas markets, City Hall for its decorations, and a leisurely afternoon at a traditional Irish pub. Don’t miss the enchanting Christmas lights display either!
From super friendly locals to top-notch dining destinations, scenery that will knock your socks off, and thousands of years of history you couldn’t find a better place to settle for a while and spend time exploring. If you are lucky enough to be here at Christmas, here are some of the Belfast must-do’s for Christmas.
Something for everyone during Christmas in Belfast
Looking for things to do in Belfast this Christmas? You’re in luck! Belfast city centre comes alive during this festive time of the year with plenty of Christmas events and activities to enjoy. One highlight is the Belfast Christmas Market 2024, located in the grounds of City Hall. This famous Christmas market offers a wide range of festive treats, crafts, and gifts to get you into the festive spirit.
While you’re in the heart of Belfast city, don’t forget to visit Queen’s Arcade and explore some of Northern Ireland’s most charming shops and boutiques. So make the most of your time in Belfast this Christmas and discover all that this vibrant city has to offer!
Christmas Lights in Belfast
There are no official lights switch-on dates yet for this year, but the city centre will come alive with a sense of wonder, imagination and Christmas spirit.
Christmas Pantomimes
It wouldn’t be Xmas in any UK city without pantomime. From Rapunzel to Snow White and Jack and the Beanstalk this city is all out for families and this traditional British entertainment.
12 Pubs of Christmas
The “12 Pubs of Christmas” is a popular festive pub crawl tradition that takes place in various cities, including Belfast. It involves visiting 12 different pubs in a single night, often with a group of friends, and enjoying a drink at each stop. A must when doing the 12 pubs is to wear a funny Christmas sweater or jumper as we call it.
Penalties may include bashing down the whole of your drink on breaking a rule. There are usually rules about how long to spend in each pub, for example, some of the rules include a maximum of 1/2 an hour in each pub. Usually, somebody ends up as rule keeper and whistleblower but most of the time the party breaks down and ends up in one pub (generally around 7 or 8) for the rest of the night. Oh, and by the way, the crawl is open to all ages and anyone can join in and take part.
Santa Claus is Coming to Town
So many cool Santas are in town starting the last week in November. The Santa Claus Parade takes place late November on St James at 12 noon and winds its way down through the main streets of Belfast to Castlecourt, which is one of Ireland’s largest shopping centres.
Santa at Castlecourt
Located on CastleCourt’s first floor (opposite the food court), you can find Santa and his busy elves in the Winter Wonderland grotto, ready to meet and greet the children with joy!
CastleCourt is working around the clock to check who’s on the nice list. Visits are charged at £7.00 per child, including your grotto visit and an age-appropriate gift.
Belfast Christmas Market
Ireland is no slouch in the Christmas Market stakes. From the glorious St. George’s market with its Twilight Market early in the month or its extended hours that run up to the big day, Belfast is a haven for great markets at Christmas time.
The Belfast Christmas Market is returning to the grounds of Belfast City Hall and will offer crafts, artwork, superb street food, and rides for the kids on heritage fairground attractions like a beautiful old carousel.
There will be lots to see, do, drink and eat. You can also check out the Inns Market where you will find all manner of locally made treats and produce to grace your Christmas table.
Christmastide: A Georgian Christmas
This festive season, we invite you to step inside Castle Ward and experience the Mansion dressed for an evocative eighteenth-century Christmas. Entering the house, your senses will awaken, and you will view the rooms just as the Georgians did in the dark and cosy Winter evenings.
After journeying through the grand and elegant rooms of the house, you will descend the Servants Stairs to the basements of Castle Ward where you will find the preparations for Christmas well underway – a Housekeeper’s room; a bustling kitchen filled with the delicious scents of festive food, and a cellar filled with fine wines.
The Stable yard will be dressed in Georgian style with Christmas lights, accompanied by our living history actors telling you the stories of those who called Castle Ward home during the 18th century.
The Argory Manor House Christmas
The Argory is an Irish gentry home that sits in a beautiful wooded estate. It is open year-round but at Christmas dresses spectacularly for the holidays. The home is festooned with traditional wreaths and trees and you can take a cosy horse and buggy ride around the estate after you finish your shopping.
The festive period is not complete without a visit to the annual Christmas Fair at The Argory on Sat 2 December and Sunday 3 Dec. Featuring a variety of local craft, food and drink stalls, as well as festive traditional entertainment. Soak up the wonderful atmosphere and see the house decorated for Christmas. Families will also have the chance to meet Santa and his elves in the grotto.
Party Time
Belfast has some legendary “craic” (good times) with a huge variety of pubs, clubs, theatres, music halls and live music to sample the best of Belfast. It wouldn’t be Christmas without a Horrible Xmas Jumper Pub Crawl.
Titanic Belfast
You can’t visit Belfast and not visit the waterfront and behold the Titanic Experience. With its interactive special effects, rides, and full-scale reconstructions you can uncover the true legend of the ship the world didn’t think could sink. At Christmas time you and the family can enjoy A Magical Christmas Experience.
Journey through the Enchanted Forest to make a wish by the Magical Wishing Tree, before stepping through the Old Curiosity Shop to enter the Elves’ Workshop!
Visit Mrs Claus in her cosy kitchen to hear Christmas tales, stop by the bustling post office to write and post your Christmas letter and peek into the toy shop where the Elves have been hard at work, before letting your creative juices flow with some arts and crafts!
Finally, wrap up your Magical Christmas Experience by having your name checked off our ‘Naughty or Nice’ list by our Chief Elf – those on the ‘Nice’ list will get to meet Father Christmas!
Santa & Gruffalo’s Grotto
If you don’t know who the Gruffalo is then you are too old for this Christmas treat. All the kids know the story of the very clever mouse and the 8ft tall Gruffalo. Join them on their Christmas Journey to the grotto to see Santa. A brilliant way to spend the day in a forest park that features life-size statues, a rushing river, and beautifully created seating areas.
Ice time
If you fancy doing a little skating why not head to the SSE Arena where for £8 you can skate for a couple of hours and feel the chill of icy winter? On the other hand, if you prefer to watch some seriously fast skating check out the Belfast Giants hockey team.
Feasting for Christmas in Belfast
The Europa
It wouldn’t be Christmas without a festive feast on the day and many fine Belfast Hotels will be hosting guests for sumptuous buffets. At the Europa which has the distinction of being the most bombed place in Belfast during the troubles, you can eat yourself senseless with a gorgeous buffet for a mere £100 per person.
You will find a lot on offer at a wide variety of establishments from hotels such as the Malmaison to Benedicts of Belfast all of these hotels offer superb celebration dining.
The Merchant Hotel
The Merchant is an absolutely stunning hotel if you can afford the high price tag try the more affordable Afternoon Tea or restaurant for a Xmas splurge.
Festive Afternoon Tea
Belfast offers several delightful Christmas afternoon tea experiences, providing a festive and cozy atmosphere. Here are a few popular options:
The Merchant Hotel
The Merchant Hotel is renowned for its luxurious setting and exquisite afternoon tea. During the Christmas season, they elevate the experience with festive decorations, live music, and seasonal treats. Expect an array of delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and preserves, and a selection of festive pastries and cakes. The atmosphere is enhanced by a grand tree and elegant Christmas decorations, making it a perfect spot for a special holiday celebration.
Titanic Belfast
Titanic Belfast offers a unique afternoon tea experience in the opulent Titanic Suite, featuring a replica of the Titanic’s Grand Staircase. The festive afternoon tea menu includes a variety of savory and sweet treats inspired by the Titanic era, with a Christmas twist. Diners can enjoy seasonal sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and a selection of festive pastries and cakes, all while enjoying the stunning views of the slipways where Titanic was built.
The Fitzwilliam Hotel
The Fitzwilliam Hotel provides a chic and contemporary setting for its Christmas afternoon tea. The festive menu includes a selection of gourmet sandwiches, warm scones with clotted cream and jam, and an assortment of festive-themed desserts. The hotel’s stylish decor is complemented by festive decorations, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. This is a perfect choice for those looking for a modern and sophisticated afternoon tea experience.
Belfast Castle
Belfast Castle offers a charming and picturesque setting for a Christmas afternoon tea. Nestled on the slopes of Cave Hill, the castle provides stunning views of the city. During the Christmas season, the tea room is beautifully decorated, and the festive afternoon tea includes a variety of seasonal sandwiches, scones, and an assortment of Christmas-themed cakes and pastries. The historic and cozy ambiance of the castle adds to the magical experience.
The Grand Central Hotel
The Grand Central Hotel is known for its elegant surroundings and panoramic views of Belfast. The festive afternoon tea includes a selection of finger sandwiches, warm scones, and a variety of Christmas-inspired cakes and pastries. The hotel’s Observatory Lounge, located on the 23rd floor, offers breathtaking views of the city, adding an extra special touch to the festive tea experience.
The Stormont Hotel
The Stormont Hotel offers a festive afternoon tea in a relaxed and elegant setting. The Christmas afternoon tea menu features an array of seasonal sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and preserves, and a selection of festive cakes and pastries. The hotel’s beautiful decorations and warm atmosphere make it a wonderful place to enjoy a festive treat.
Christmas Parties
There are dozens of Christmas Parties and events to attend in Belfast at Xmas time. From elaborate dinners and cabaret evenings which give you a chance to dress to the nines. Then there are the pub crawls, the party cabarets, the dance halls tribute acts and more – it’s all here in Belfast.
Most of Belfast will shut down for Christmas Day but will re-open with a vengeance on Boxing Day for huge sales. If you want to partake of an Irish tradition on Boxing Day you should attend the Races at the Down Royal Racecourse. An annual tradition since the 17th century the races on Boxing Day are held at Ireland’s oldest racecourse and make a great day out for the entire family.
Belfast has a very good transportation system connecting all parts of the City and into the more “rural” areas, it is a city that makes it easy to get around, and having a smaller footprint means that taxis are much cheaper than in the bigger cities in N. America.
There are all kinds of bus trips, tours and guided walks to help you see the best of the City, but I would recommend renting a car or taking bus tours to see the country itself. From the Game of Thrones to Causeway Coast Tours you will find lots of ways to get out of the city and see for yourself why Ireland is considered the most beautiful country in the world.
Looking for ways to incorporate Irish Christmas traditions into your Christmas celebrations? Here are a few ideas for you.
Here’s a brilliant collection of Irish Christmas music that doesn’t become elevator noise – a no schmaltz zone in fact.
I couldn’t resist adding a few of my favourite Christmas tree ornaments.
Here’s a lovely little Pewter Irish Cross tree ornament
These Royal Tara ornaments are a collector’s dream
Blown Glass Irish tree ornament
If you’re looking for things to do in Belfast this Christmas Belfast city centre is the heart of the city, and there are plenty of Christmas events in Belfast to get into the festive spirit.
If you’re planning a break in Belfast, make sure to also explore Northern Ireland’s capital. You can take all kinds of tours to places like the Giant’s Causeway, the Causeway Coast or see the Game of Thrones Sites.
What do you plan to do with your Xmas?
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