Winter's Den: A Festive Wonderland In Belfast City Centre

Belfast city centre is getting ready to spread some festive cheer with the opening of Winter's Den at 2 Royal Avenue.

The former Tesco Metro has been transformed into a magical winter wonderland, offering a packed programme of free events and activities for people of all ages.

Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Micky Murray, described the Winter's Den is a fantastic addition to Belfast's Christmas festivities and a place where families can come together, enjoy live music, and create lasting memories.

Highlights of the Winter's Den programme include:

• Santa's Post Office

• Festive markets

• Live music performances

• Arts and crafts workshops

• Film screenings

• Tea dances

• Autism-friendly workshops 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.

Music highlights include the Ukulele Rockstars on Thursday 5 December, traditional music from Belfast primary school groups on 9 and 10 December, festive musical theatre from Antrim School of Music and a concert by South Ulster Sinfonia on Saturday 14 December, and a Christmas concert by Sunnyside Music School and a Festive Trad Seisiun by Glengormley School of Traditional Music on Sunday 15 December.

There will also be selection of markets for people to enjoy including the Social Enterprise Christmas Market from 3pm to 8pm on Thursday 5 December and the Christmas Belfast Potters' Market which takes place from 5pm-9pm on Friday 6 December and from 10am to 5pm on Saturday 7 December.

For more info on all the Christmas events coming up at Winter's Den and across the city, visit www.belfastcity.gov.uk/christmas.