Festive events and things to do with the whole family this Christmas across Northern Ireland

Hillsborough Castle and Gardens Christmas 2024 (Image: © Historic Royal Palaces) The festive season has arrived in Northern Ireland. As we prepare for Santa's visit, eating Christmas dinner until we burst and celebrating with your nearest and dearest, there are plenty of fun festive activities to enjoy this year. From Christmas markets, to family days out, to Santa experiences, there is something for everyone to check out to get into the spirit in every corner of the country.

Read more: Belfast Christmas Market 2024 dates, opening times and everything else we know Read more: Top travel magazine names Belfast Christmas Market as one of the best in the UK If you are looking for a pantomime or Christmas show to check out this year, we have a separate guide to them across NI here. Although there are too many events to mention every one in 2024 - here is a round-up of some Christmas-themed events happening across each council area in NI: Belfast Belfast Christmas Market Belfast City Hall at Christmas (Image: Justin Kernoghan/Belfast Live) The Christmas market has been the focal point of festive celebrations in the city centre for the last 18 years. With traders from 21 different nationalities and a host of brilliant gift, food and retail options, a trip to the Christmas market is an essential when visiting the city.



Belfast Christmas Market will be at the City Hall until 6pm on 22 December. St Gerard's Santa Experience At St Gerard’s on the Black's Road, which is incredibly well decorated, you feel that you are in that North Pole magic. You write your letters, make your reindeer food, meet the post office elves, wrap the presents with the master elves, check if you are on the nice list & decorate your gingerbread men with Mrs Clause before you even get your audience with Santa.

This hour long extravaganza operates in small groups so that all kids get proper quality time with the Christmas characters. Santa's Post Office Santa’s Post Office invites children to a snowy corner of 2 Royal Avenue to join Santa’s elves for arts and crafts, offering families a free, festive holiday experience. The elves, brought to life by c21 Theatre Company, are on hand to make the experience magical, helping children bring their Christmas dreams to life.

Santa’s Post Office is open every weekend through November and Thursday to Sunday in December, with no tickets required for entry. Santa’s Elf Academy at W5 This season, Santa and his lovable elf-bot Bud-E are back at W5 with an all-new live-action show, Santa’s Elf Academy. After a failed experiment to replace his helpers with robots, Santa is now calling on children and adults to help him save Christmas! In this action-packed show, participants can take on fun games and challenges, earning their place as honorary elves.

Successful graduates will receive an official elf hat and a special gift from Santa’s sleigh to take home. With music, dancing, robots, and lots of interactive fun, Elf Academy is a must-see for families looking to dive into the holiday spirit. Winter Circus Tumble Circus is back at Writers' Square in Belfast Belfast's award-winning forward-thinking circus company will be kicking off their annual show on December 13 and running until the new year.

Winter Circus, now in its eighth successful year, will be hosted in Tumble Circus’ iconic heated big top tent in the central location of Writers’ Square with tickets on sale now. Winter Circus will treat visitors to a winter extravaganza unlike anything else on offer in the city, with a host of death-defying and side-splitting acts to keep the audience on the edge of their seats and rolling in the aisles! Festive Fayre at Titanic Belfast The perfect opportunity to treat yourself, friends or family and pick up some last-minute stocking fillers! You'll find lots of local traders selling artisan and seasonal handcrafted wares in the Grand Atrium this month, so why not come along and do some Christmas shopping for those unique and beautiful gifts? Running at Titanic Belfast from 24th Nov/7th–8th/14th–15th/21st–22nd Dec. Winter's Den Winter’s Den at 2 Royal Avenue in Belfast city centre will host a packed programme of free festive entertainment from now until Christmas A packed programme of free festive events and activities is planned for the Winter’s Den at 2 Royal Avenue in Belfast city centre .

This weekend sees a Frozen-themed event taking place which will feature music from the Snow Sisters and a magical craft workshop from 11.30am to 2.30pm on Saturday 23 November.

This is followed by Festive Cultureland from 10.30am-1.30pm on Sunday 24 November where different cultures will be represented at drop-in art workshops, music and dance performances.

Mid and East Antrim Christmas at Glenarm Castle Christmas at Glenarm Castle (Image: Glenarm Castle/ Facebook) We are so excited for the return of our annual Glenarm Castle Christmas Experience, taking place this year from Friday 29th November to Sunday 15th December! This year’s event will be another traditional and festive occasion with a host of attractions for all the family, including a charming nativity scene with real animals, Mrs Claus story-telling, gingerbread decorating and of course, don’t forget our hot food offering at Fagin’s Tavern and our popular Polar Express train adventure. Most importantly, Father Christmas and his elves will be here, ready to welcome the children into their bustling workshop as they prepare for their busiest time of the year. The Chronicles of Larnia December 14 - Location: Broadway, Larne - Start times: 10.

30am (Quiet Session), 11am, 11.30am and 12noon. 2pm, 2.

30pm, 3pm and 3.30pm. Seven doorways into other worlds full of magic and mayhem in a jingle jungle adventure for festive fun seekers.

Expect encounters with untrained elves, trapped fairies and lost spells. Prepare for surprises with mince spies solving mysteries and puzzles. Step inside stories with secrets and sparks.

But...

Beware the story snatchers...

.. Victorian Santa Experience Pay a visit to the original Victorian Whitehead Excursion Platform and Whitehead Railway Museum in Whitehead, County Antrim and enjoy a unique Santa experience unlike any other.

Santa loves steam trains and can get a little distracted so it’s up to you to find him and see if he has anything for you. When you arrive for your experience, you will enjoy a 10-minute journey in a heritage carriage adorned with Victorian style decorations and hauled by a steam engine. This gives you enough time to open your special envelope containing your letter to Santa.

After this, you will be escorted by one of Santa’s helpers down past Santa’s workshop – with a few surprises along the way! Carrickfergus Festive Artisan Market Carrickfergus Town Hall 11am - 3pm - December 7. The Market will showcase a wide range of crafters, you will certainly discover that gift, crafted locally. In addition there will be: FREE Face Painting Visit from Santa Claus Town Centre Treasure Trail Music provided by Uplift throughout the Market.

Ballymena Christmas Roadshow Wellington Court Ballymena - 11am - 3pm Join us in Ballymena on Saturday 14 December for the Downtown Radio Christmas Roadshow. Come down and join the fun to be in with a chance to win vouchers, tickets, goodie bags and more! Additional Family fun activities throughout the Town provided by Ballymena BID throughout the day. An exciting day full of activities not to be missed.

Antrim and Newtownabbey Enchanted Winter Gardens Enchanted Winter Garden in Antrim (Image: Justin Kernoghan/Belfast Live) As the winter sun sets over Lough Neagh, Antrim Castle Gardens comes to life with a magical Christmas experience for all the family. Visit the Wonderland Wood, enjoy the twinkling lights, drop in on Santa and don’t forget the rides, attractions, and mouth-watering food in the Festive Food Fayre. An unforgettable evening to start your Christmas in style! Christmas light switch-ons Get ready to kick off the holiday season in style! Join us for the annual Christmas Light Switch On Events across Antrim and Newtownabbey, where we’ll light up the borough with festive cheer.

Hazelbank Park Tuesday 26 November, 7-8.30pm Mossley Mill Wednesday 27 November, 6-7.30pm Railway Street Car Park, Antrim Thursday 28 November, 6-7.

30pm The Square Car Park, Ballyclare Saturday 30 November, 4.30-6pm Derry City and Strabane Guildhall Craft Fair The eagerly anticipated Guildhall Craft Fair returns to the Guildhall 22nd - 24th November. Celebrating its 28th anniversary this year, the event showcases an exquisite range of bespoke craft items created by craft design-makers and artisan food producers throughout Ireland.

The fair takes place in the Guildhall in Derry’s city centre and is renowned for attracting a large number of visitors looking for that special gift or purchase for Christmas. Roe Valley Magical Christmas Workshop Saturday 30 November - Session1 | 2-3pm - Session 2 | 3-4pm Join Mary Claus, 'the first lady' of Christmas, for a magical workshop! Meet the very woman who makes it all happen! Enjoy storytelling, create reindeer food, craft paper wreaths, make a festive tree decoration and write your Christmas letter to Mr and Mrs Claus. Come join us for a special festive experience at Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre.

Richmond Winter Market Get into the festive spirit at the Richmond Winter Market, happening Sunday, 8th December, from 1–5 pm! Our market will be brimming with the finest local vendors, each bringing unique, hand-crafted treasures and holiday treats to make your Christmas shopping magical. Whether you're looking for one-of-a-kind gifts or seasonal goodies, this is the perfect chance to support local makers and find something truly special. Entry is free, and the whole family is welcome to join in the fun! Due to overwhelming interest, vendor spaces are now fully booked, and our reserve list is also at capacity.

We're beyond excited to host such a talented group of artisans and makers for what promises to be a fantastic day. Full list of Christmas light switch ons in the council Village Date & Time of Switch On Ardstraw Thursday 5th of December @ 7pm Artigarvan Thursday 3rd of December @ 6:45pm Ballymagorry Monday 2nd of December @ 7pm Bready Thursday 28th of November @ 6pm Castlederg Friday 29th of November @ 7pm Clady Friday 6th of December @ 7pm Cranagh Saturday 7th of December @ 8pm Drumlegagh Friday 6th of December @ 6:30pm Donemana Friday 6th of December @ 7pm Douglas Bridge Saturday 7th of December Erganagh Friday 29th of November Glebe Sunday 1st of December @ 5:30pm Glenmornan Sunday 8th of December Killen Friday 6th of December @ 7pm Killeter Thursday 5th of December @ 7pm Magheramason Monday 25th of November @ 7pm Newbuildings Friday 29th of November @ 7pm Newtownstewart Sunday 1st of December @ 5:30pm Park Friday 6th of December Plumbridge Friday 6th of December @ 7pm Sion Mills Saturday 30th of November @ 4:15pm Spamount Friday 29th of November Strathfoyle Monday 2nd of December Victoria Bridge Friday 29th of November @ 6:30pm Newry, Mourne and Down Santa at Montalto Experience Montalto's Magical Christmas with Santa Claus & Helpers..

. Wrap up warm as you prepare to arrive at M.O.

N.T.A.

L.T.O.

(Main Office of North Pole Traditions And Licensed Toy Operations). Here our jolly Head Elf will greet you and take you to board the Evergreen Express, a train fuelled entirely by Christmas Cheer, as it passes through Montalto's winter landscape, before dropping you off at the very place Santa stays with us each December. Once you've arrived, Mrs.

Claus will be there, checking her list to see who's been naughty or nice. For those who have made it on to the Nice List, Santa himself will be eagerly waiting to speak with you, take pictures, and share a special gift. The Northern Light at Slieve Donard Introducing The Northern Light—an immersive, interactive Christmas story brought to life in four captivating chapters.

Follow the glow of the Northern Light on a self-guided journey through a breathtaking world of festive wonder. With dazzling light & sound experiences, and magical moments around every corner, this experience is one for all ages. Whether you're young or young at heart, The Northern Light at Slieve Donard promises to create memories you'll cherish for years to come.

Be part of the very first edition of what is destined to become a new Christmas tradition. The journey to the source of Christmas magic begins here. Downpatrick Christmas light switch on Celebrate the season at the Downpatrick Christmas Lights Celebration on Saturday 30 November 2024 from 3pm to 7pm in St Patrick Square! This festive event is packed with fun for the whole family, with free crafts, face-painting, fairground rides, and live music from the Uplifted Gospel Choir and The Nooks.

Stroll through the local artisan craft market, featuring unique, handmade, and seasonal gifts from our talented local producers. Join us as Santa himself lights the tree at 6.30pm, creating a magical start to the holiday season in Downpatrick! This event is a fantastic way for the community to come together to celebrate Christmas and encourage shopping locally in this festive season Santa at the Castle (Image: Getty Images) A Magical Christmas Experience for the whole family! Step into a fairytale this Christmas with Santa at the Castle! Bring the kids along for some enchanting holiday magic at Narrow Water Castle, Newry, County Down, where Santa Claus himself will be making a special appearance.

'Santa at the Castle' promises a truly memorable experience for families and children of all ages. Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere of this charming setting, as Santa welcomes visitors, listens to their wishes, and spreads the joy of the season. With its rich history and cosy ambiance, Narrow Water Castle is the perfect backdrop for a magical encounter with Santa.

Join us for an unforgettable journey into the heart of Christmas at 'Santa at the Castle' in Narrow Water. Cranfield Alpaca Christmasfest Join us for a magical Alpaca Christmasfest! Experience the joy of the season with festive crafts, a special visit from Santa in our festive barn, and the chance to meet, walk, and feed our adorable alpacas. Capture memorable moments with Santa, who brings gifts for everyone! Savour delicious refreshments, including hot chocolate with fresh cream and marshmallows, festive punch, and sweet treats like mince pies.

Ards and North Down Pop-up Christmas Shop North Down Museum’s galleries with be festively decorated and filled with stunning, hand-made products, the perfect place to get that special gift whilst supporting local artists. The shop is free to explore during museum opening hours and will continue until Sunday 5 January. On Thursday 28 November, the museum will host a special Twilight Shopping Event at the Pop-Up Christmas Shop.

Visitors are invited to browse the museum’s galleries to purchase beautiful, handcrafted presents. The free event will also feature live music and demonstrations by local artists. Christmas Storytelling with Squiggles and Giggles Kids will also enjoy North Down Museum’s Christmas Storytelling with Squiggles and Giggles on Saturday 7 December.

Come along for some festive stories, music and movement! Suitable for under 5s, £5.50 per child. The museum is also hosting Christmas Gift Workshops for kids on Saturday 14 December where children can make a bespoke gift for someone special in their life.

Suitable for ages 7+, £7.50 per child, booking is required for both events. Creative Peninsula Christmas Fayre The fayre returns to Ards Arts Centre on Friday 6 and Saturday 7 December, exclusively featuring artwork and handcrafted produce made by the Creative Peninsula Artists.

For a unique shopping experience, visitors can browse the artworks and be inspired to purchase a wonderful, handcrafted Christmas gift, made in the Borough of Ards and North Down. Seasonal music, complimentary gift wrapping, and festive refreshments will also be on offer. The Christmas Fayre is on 4pm – 8pm on Friday 6 and 10am – 4pm on Saturday 7 December.

Admission is free. Christmas at Mount Stewart From a festive trail and creative workshops to late-night house openings and captivating performances, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Immerse yourself in the spirit of the season with beautifully dressed spaces, cosy storytelling, and winter garden wonders.

Whether crafting your own wreath, exploring our vibrant winter blooms, or savouring festive treats, Mount Stewart is the perfect destination to make your holidays truly special. Join us this festive season for a cosy Christmas experience at Mount Stewart. Christmas at Ulster Folk Museum Wander the snowy, cobbled streets of the Ulster Folk Museum and experience Christmas the traditional way.

See the Folk Museum decorated for the festive season, from the grandeur of the Rectory to the simplicity of the Tea Lane houses. Meet our craft demonstrators as they prepare for seasonal celebrations and take in the festive scents of cinnamon toast warming on the open fire. Settle in for a festive story and listen out for carol singers, plus festive sounds from a brass band and harpist.

Post your letter to Santa at our Post Office, and make sure to say hello to the donkeys at the Marketplace. Warm up with a festive drink in the cosy surroundings of McCusker's pub, now fully licensed (whilst being responsible) - spiced cider, mulled wine or hot toddy. Mid Ulster Winter Wonderland at Todd's Leap Santa in attendance at Todd's Leap Winter Wonderland 2020 This Christmas, Santa & Mrs Claus return and those Elves will be taking over Todds Leap again! Come along and Explore the Magical Winter Wonderland, a Christmas Experience like no other.

Write, Stamp & post your Letter to Santa with the Elves in Santa Post Office, board Santas Off Road Sleigh, Help the Elves Test the Toys in Santa Workshop and more. There will also be lots of little surprises along the way. The Argory Christmas Fair Christmas at The Argory is all about the excitement of reviving festive traditions and sharing precious moments with loved ones.

Unwrap a classic Christmas with festive experiences as you step back in time to a Yuletide of yesteryear. The Christmas Fair will return to The Argory, bigger, better and more festive than ever before, with live music, food and craft stalls and plenty of opportunities to tick off that Christmas gift list with unique locally made finds. 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. Christmas Wonderland at Jungle NI Jungle NI Get ready to experience the magic of Christmas like never before! Join us this December, for one of the most unique Christmas experiences in Ireland.

Christmas Wonderland at The Jungle is the ultimate festive day out for families, where colourfully illuminated woodlands, friendly elves and sackfuls of festive cheer set the scene for a different kind of family day out. Join us for our 12th year of making memories that last a lifetime! Located at The Jungle, just outside Magherafelt in the heart of Northern Ireland. Fermanagh and Omagh Christmas at Marble Arch Caves Join us at Marble Arch Caves this Christmas and embrace the festive spirit with a variety of exciting events and experiences for everyone.

Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures or a cozy escape in the warmth of the Visitor Centre, there's something for you to enjoy. Make Marble Arch Caves a part of your holiday plans this season! Merry & Bright Christmas Fireworks Evening at Killyhevlin Lakeside Hotel Get set for wide eyes and 'wows' as we bring some extra sparkle to your festive season. 'Merry & Bright' Family Firewoks evening includes a Festive 4 Course Dinner, visit from Santa including Gift for each child, dazzling fireworks display overlooking Lough Erne and disco.

Christmas at Ulster American Folk Park Ulster American Folk Park Experience the traditions and nostalgia of Christmas past this festive season at the Ulster American Folk Park, Omagh. December weekends and Christmas week itself (that's the 7th & 8th, 14th & 15th, 20th to 23rd December) - There'll be Christmas crafts for kids, mince pies and warmed apple punch from Mrs Claus' Bakery, plus festive tunes and Christmas storytelling sessions. The Mummer characters will entertain you with a performance led by Captain Mummer, celebrating one of rural Ulster's oldest Christmas traditions.

If the weather behaves, we'll also have horse and carriage rides! Christmas Farmer's Market - Enniskillen Experience the magic of Christmas at Enniskillen Castle, nestled on the picturesque banks of Lough Erne! Stroll through our festive markets, where the finest local produce and handcrafted gifts come together to create a festive shopping experience like no other. From seasonal treats to sustainable shopping, embrace the warmth of the Christmas spirit in this historic setting. Join us for a magical atmosphere filled with cheer, community, and Christmas sparkle.

Come for the festive delights, stay for the unforgettable memories Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Annual Georgian Festival Armagh’s annual Georgian Festival will kickstart Northern Ireland's festive season, marking the perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit. Returning for its 20th year this November, the award-winning event will run from November 28 to December 1, launching the Cathedral City’s Christmas celebrations. The city is set to bring its Georgian past to life through buildings, characters, customs and a jam-packed programme of events that will appeal to history buffs, curious families, culture vultures and foodies.

Mission Santa Mission Santa: An Immersive Christmas Experience returns to Armagh Planetarium. It's a real Code Red! Join our E.L.

F. crew on Mission Santa and blast off on a Christmas adventure. Your out-of-this-world adventure will include: Admission to a full-dome show in the dome theatre.

Help save Santa inside mission control during a live theatrical show, along with a visit to see Santa! A present for each child and printed family photograph. Santa on Tour and Christmas light events This Christmas, Santa is hitting the road for a special visit to Armagh City, Banbridge, and Craigavon Borough for an unforgettable adventure. Join us for Santa on Tour as we light up the borough with festive sparkle to celebrate Christmas in style! Richhill - Wednesday 27 November | 6pm - 8.

30pm Donaghcloney -Thursday 28 November | 6pm - 8.30pm Banbridge - Friday 29 November | 5pm - 8pm Tandragee - Friday 29 November | 6pm - 8.30pm Rathfriland - Friday 29 November | 6pm - 8.

30pm Dromore - Saturday 30 November | 4pm - 7pm Armagh - Sunday 1 December I 1pm - 4pm Keady - Thursday 5 December I 6pm - 8.30pm Waringstown - Friday 6 December I 6pm - 7.30pm Lisburn and Castlereagh Dundonald Christmas Market Dundonald Christmas Market returns this year to a new venue at Moat Park, Dundonald for an evening of festive shopping and fun.

The market will feature local artisans of food, art, craft and homewares for sustainable living. There will be artisan street food and speciality hot drinks - think seasonal coffees and hot chocolates. 4pm - 8pm, Free entry Lisburn to Lapland walking tour Santa’s elves will take you on a journey filled with mischief and magic through the city centre.

Along the way you can enjoy hot chocolates and festive treats from a range of local businesses. The 30-minute show begins at Bow Street Mall and ends at Castle Gardens, where a stunning free light display will delight all ages. The performance truly is a magical family experience that will offer even more holiday cheer after last year’s glittering success.

Performances will take place every Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 4:30pm and 5:30pm, with an extra 6:30pm show on Thursday and Fridays. Lisburn Light Trail at Castle Gardens Come and wander through our spectacular light trail in Lisburn Castle Gardens this Christmas and take in the wonderful sights of the light show. Visit Santa's Grotto, enjoy live music and visit the mini Christmas Market each Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

Admission is free. Christmas at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens Hillsborough Castle's South façade surrounded by gardens laden with heavy, fresh snow This winter season, Historic Royal Palaces brings the Christmas spirit to Hillsborough Castle and Gardens with an enchanted trail inspired by the 12 Days of Christmas. Step into a scene of festive cheer as each verse of the song comes to life in a series of installations across the grounds, all included in general admission.

Begin your journey by the Pear Tree Walkway, where a small partridge perched atop a display of garlands welcomes visitors through sprawling gardens bedecked in Christmas décor. At Lady Alice’s Temple, five shimmering golden wreaths catch the eye, whilst a path from the Lost Garden to the South Terrace leads to a captivating spectacle of nine dancers taking to the stage. The journey culminates on the 12th Day of Christmas with a show-stopping 15-foot Christmas tree standing tall, circled by twelve decorative drums.

R oyal Hillsborough Christmas Market The annual festive market returns on Friday 13th December from 3pm - 9pm. Hosted by Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, this charming market will take place along The Dark Walk, creating a magical atmosphere for evening shoppers. Visitors can expect a cosy night of festive shopping, with local businesses in the village also staying open late to join in on the festivities.

Causeway Coast and Glens Causeway Christmas Embrace a GIANT festive spirit at Northern Ireland's iconic World Heritage Site this Christmas. See the award-winning Visitor Centre beautifully transformed into a Christmas wonderland. Bring some extra festive cheer by dawning your best Christmas jumpers and getting your face painted by the wonderful Lorraine from 'Facepainting by the Sea' - perfect for a family photo opportunity in front the magnificently decorated trees and sparkling lights! Embark on a magical Christmas Trail to discover the secrets hidden around the Visitor Centre, before enjoying some traditional family games or creating your very own decoration to add a personal feel to your home this Christmas.

Christmas in Causeway Coast and Glens To ensure everyone is in the Christmas spirit, this year’s programme of festivities is set to have something for all the family, including Christmas Cavalcades, the Christmas lights switch-on, walkabout characters and of course seasonal music and Santa’s grotto. Christmas parade info: 28th November Ballycastle Quay Road - Ann Street - Market Street - Clare Street - Castle Street - Diamond - Ann Street - Quay Road 6.45pm 29th November Coleraine Coleraine Leisure Centre – Railway Road - Kingsgate Street - Church Street - The Diamond- Church Street - Kingsgate Street- Railway Road - Coleraine Leisure Centre 6.

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