Reviews for the Belfast Christmas Market are generally very positive, highlighting its central location at City Hall, diverse international food (from German sausages to kangaroo burgers and crepes), wide range of crafts, festive atmosphere with lights and music, and family-friendly attractions like rides and Santa's Grotto, though it can get very busy. Visitors love the "hug in a mug" mulled wine, unique gifts, and the general buzz, recommending weekday afternoons for a less crowded experience.
Twinkling lights, the smell of mulled wine, the endless shopping opportunities and the general sound of merriment. For those visiting or living near Belfast, the Belfast Christmas Market is the perfect place to go if you're looking to soak up the festive atmosphere.
Overview. December is a good time to visit Belfast. The weather is usually cold and slightly windy, with temperatures ranging from 40—46°F (4—8°C). There are plenty of events to check out and activities to try in Belfast during this time.
1. The Galway Christmas Markets. The Galway Christmas Markets are widely regarded as one of the best Christmas markets in Ireland. And, now entering their 16th year, they're officially the longest-running!
Which is better, Belfast or Galway Christmas market?
Galway Christmas Market Running from November 7th to December 31st in Eyre Square, this is Ireland's longest-running Christmas market and widely considered the best. ...
Belfast Christmas Market Belfast's City Hall transforms into a German-style Christmas market from November 15th to December 22nd.
By the end of this guide, we guarantee that you will be itching to book flights to Belfast for your next long weekend. Whilst 3 days is the perfect amount of time to spend in the city. We highly recommend that you allow for extra time in Northern Ireland, to explore beyond Belfast.
Does it snow in Belfast during December? Possibly. There's a chance of snow during December but not as much as you might think. Check the local forecast before you leave home so that you can pack appropriate footwear and clothing.
No visit to Belfast is complete without experiencing Titanic Belfast, an award-winning museum dedicated to the city's most famous ship. Located in the Titanic Quarter, this architectural masterpiece stands on the very site where the Titanic was built.
Northern Ireland uses the pound sterling (£), the same currency in circulation in England, Scotland and Wales. This is different to the Euro which is used in the Republic of Ireland. Mastercard (Access) and Visa credit and debit cards, including contactless payments, are in general use.
On average, December has lows of 3°C/37°F, so make sure to bring a thick winter coat, a woolly hat and scarf, and some warm gloves and socks. On top of these, it's good to have a variety of clothes for wearing underneath (such as vests, t-shirts, long-sleeve t-shirts, and sweaters or hoodies).
Yes, Belfast is very walkable, especially its compact city center, with many major sights like City Hall, Titanic Quarter, and Queen's University easily accessible on foot, while the city also offers good public transport (bus, Glider) and bike rentals for venturing further.
As a tourist in Ireland, avoid mocking the accent, using phrases like "top o' the mornin'," claiming 100% Irish heritage, or ordering "Irish Car Bombs" in pubs; also, don't assume everyone drinks, disrespect sensitive topics (politics/religion/The Troubles), confuse Ireland with the UK, or only visit Dublin, remembering to dress for variable weather, respect local customs (like buying rounds), and explore beyond main sights.
Adare is celebrated as Ireland's Prettiest Village and was founded in the 13th Century. Adare offers top-quality accommodations in hotels, self-catering and B&Bs.
Solvang has been named the #1 Best Christmas Town in the U.S. in the 2025 TZR (The Zoe Report) Jet-Set Readers' Choice Awards, earning the top spot among festive destinations nationwide. Solvang has been named the #1 Best Christmas To...
