Belfast Christmas Celebrations Announced

Belfast will light up for Christmas with an evening of seasonal celebrations on Saturday 19 November, marking the start of a festive line-up of activities and entertainment.

A dazzling 'Merry, Bright and White' Christmas procession will sprinkle some magic as it makes its way through the city centre, along with an array of street entertainment, light projections and festive window animations.

And, in keeping with its UNESCO City of Music status, the streets will also be filled with an eclectic mix of live music - from brass bands and opera, to buskers and ukulele acts.

Lord Mayor of Belfast Councillor Christina Black said: "Building on the success of last year's Christmas programme, once again we're spreading the festive cheer across a number of weekends in the run up to Christmas, starting on Saturday 19 November with a fantastic line-up of free seasonal fun and entertainment.

"Christmas can put a lot of pressure on families, and we know things are particularly tough this year with the cost of living crisis, and the challenges that brings for families and households across the city. It was important for us, as a Council, to have a programme of activities that is free for everyone to enjoy, and to support businesses and hospitality in the run-up to Christmas by attracting people into the city centre."

Saturday 19 November is also the first day of this year's Christmas Market at Belfast City Hall.

There will be on-street entertainment in the city centre every weekend in the run-up to Christmas, as well as a packed seasonal programme of activities at 2 Royal Avenue. The refurbished cultural venue will host a range of free festive fun starting on Saturday 19 November, including storytelling sessions, craft-making, silent discos, and twilight markets.

Belfast One's Santa's Post Office will also be open at the city centre venue. Admission is free.

Councillor Black added: "Christmas is a really magical time, especially for little ones, and there's some lovely fun activities happening in 2 Royal Avenue which is going to be transformed into a welcoming winter wonderland.

"I'm really looking forward to seeing Belfast lit up for Christmas; I think it will really lift people's spirits and bring some festive cheer to the city."