Top 10 Things to Do this Christmas!
The holiday season in Belfast is a magical time, bringing cosy markets, twinkling lights, and festive activities perfect for all ages. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, here’s our roundup of the top ten must-do activities to make this Christmas in Belfast unforgettable.
1. Explore the Iconic Belfast Christmas Market at City Hall
The Belfast Christmas Market is a holiday staple. Stroll around City Hall’s transformed grounds, filled with festive wooden chalets offering artisan crafts, delicious food, and drinks from around the world. Warm up with mulled wine or indulge in Belgian chocolates, and don’t miss the local gift vendors for some unique Christmas shopping!
The Belfast Christmas Market is open from Sat 16 November to Sun 22 December 2024, (Mon-Wed 10am-8pm, Thurs-Sat 10am-10pm, Sun 12pm-6pm)
2. Ice Skating into the Festive Season
For winter sports lovers, Belfast has plenty to offer this festive season. At the Dundonald International Ice Bowl, you can glide across the ice surrounded by twinkling holiday lights and cheerful festive music. It’s perfect for a family outing or a fun-filled day with friends, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned skater.
For an extra special treat, the SSE Arena opens to the public for winter skate sessions. Experience skating in this iconic venue and make some magical holiday memories.
SSE Arena’s Public Winter Skating Sessions open from Fri 22nd December – Fri 3rd January, Tickets are on sale from Wednesday 6 December at 12pm which you can grab here.
3. Attend the Fever’s Candlelight Concerts
Experience Christmas classics in a new way with the Candlelight Concerts held at unique venues across Belfast. With flickering candlelight setting the scene, live musicians perform holiday favourites in a truly magical atmosphere. It’s an enchanting evening out for anyone who loves live music.
Candlelight: Christmas Classics at St Anne’s Cathedral on Sat 21st December, 6:30pm – 9:00pm
4. See a Christmas Panto at the Grand Opera House
Christmas wouldn’t be complete without a classic pantomime! Head to the Grand Opera House for this year’s show, where you’ll enjoy festive fun, comedy, and audience participation. It’s a wonderful tradition and perfect for families or groups of friends.
Key Upcoming Key Dates & Events:
The Pantomime Adventures of Peter Pan showing from Sat 30 Nov 2024 – Sun 12 Jan 2025
5. Visit W5’s Christmas Themed Fun
For a family-friendly adventure, head to W5 where kids can meet Santa, embark on a magical train journey, and explore a Christmas-themed wonderland filled with interactive activities and festive decorations!
But the festive fun at W5 isn’t just for kids! W5 hosts its Big Christmas Night Late Night, an over-18s event featuring live music, interactive exhibits, festive drinks, and plenty of holiday cheer. It’s the perfect way for adults to experience the magic of W5 in a relaxed, lively atmosphere.
W5 Late: Big Christmas Night on Friday, 13th December 2024, from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM
6. Enjoy Festive Afternoon Tea
Nothing says Christmas like indulging in a festive afternoon tea. Belfast offers a variety of options, from luxurious venues like the Titanic Hotel, Europa, and Malmaison to the cosy charm of restaurants and cafés such as Café Parisien and Avoca. Treat yourself to seasonal delights, warming teas, and a relaxing escape from the holiday hustle. These special offers make it the perfect gift for someone or a delightful way to spend an afternoon with loved ones.
7. Enjoy Christmas the Traditional Way at the Ulster Folk Museum
Step into a festive past at the Ulster Folk Museum, where you can explore beautifully decorated sites, from the grand Rectory to the charming Tea Lane houses. Meet craft demonstrators preparing for the season and enjoy the cosy scents of cinnamon toast on an open fire. Delight in carol singing, festive tunes from a brass band and harpist, and visit the donkeys at the Marketplace.
Warm up with a festive drink in McCusker’s Pub, now fully licensed, and try mulled wine, spiced cider, or a hot toddy. Don’t miss the Christmas craft stations, traditional sweet shop, and the chance to discover the holiday traditions of yesteryear.
Christmas Festivities begin on Sat 30th Nov-Sun 22nd Dec, 10:00am to 4:00pm (Only on Saturdays and Sundays, except Friday 20 Dec, open from 11:00 to 16:00).
8. Join Belfast Pub Crawl for Some Festive Fun
Looking for a lively way to celebrate the season? The Belfast Pub Crawl offers an unforgettable night out for only £15 a ticket. Tour some of Belfast’s best-loved pubs and soak up the festive atmosphere with knowledgeable guides leading the way, you’ll uncover hidden gems, meet new people, and experience Belfast’s buzzing nightlife at its best. Perfect for groups of friends or anyone looking to make merry this holiday season!
Find all Belfast Pub Crawl Booking Choices Here!
9. Take a Day Trip to the Hillsborough Castle
Just a short drive from Belfast, Hillsborough Castle and Gardens offers a magical Christmas experience for all ages. Wander along the breathtaking illuminated trail, featuring sparkling installations and festive displays set against the stunning backdrop of the castle’s gardens. Families can also take part in special Christmas workshops, where children can enjoy crafts, storytelling, and other seasonal activities designed to spark their imagination. With Santa’s Grotto and seasonal refreshments available, it’s the perfect festive day out for everyone.
Festivities Begin on Mon 23rd November – Sunday 5th January 2025
One-off performance by Cappella Caeciliana within the castle’s opulent Throne Room on Sun 15th December by one of NI’s most distinctive choirs.
10. Take a Christmas Lights Tour Around the City
Belfast truly sparkles during the holidays, with streets and buildings adorned with glittering Christmas lights. Grab a hot chocolate and wander through Cathedral Quarter and Donegall Place to see the best displays. Be sure to visit Joy’s Entry next to Henry’s Jailhouse, which is beautifully decorated in a unique theme each year, and don’t forget to stop by the stunning Christmas tree in front of City Hall—it’s always a dazzling sight!
Key Dates & Events:
Christmas Lights Switch-On outside of City Hall on Sat 16th November, 6.30pm to 7.30pm (gates will open at 6pm)
Belfast has something for everyone this holiday season, whether you’re after festive events, family activities, or cosy places to gather with friends. Explore these top Christmas picks, and let the holiday cheer take over! Don’t forget to download GetSociable for updates on the latest events, venue recommendations, and more tips for a magical Christmas in Belfast.
Tags: Belfast, Restaurants
