What date does the Christmas Market start in Belfast?

Belfast Christmas Market has something for everyone, including the little ones. Bring the children to meet Santa in his enchanting grotto, or enjoy a bird's eye view of the market from the top of the vintage helter-skelter. The market opens on the 15th of November at 12 noon—don't miss out!

Is Belfast Christmas Market any good?

Are the Belfast Christmas Markets any good? Although they've been ranked by The Times as one of the 'Best Christmas Markets in the UK' for 2025, we have heard mixed reviews from people that have visited in recent years.

How much does it cost to go to the Christmas Market in Belfast?

The market opens on the 15th of November at 12 noon—don't miss out! This is a free event.

How many stalls are at Belfast Christmas Market?

The Christmas Market now hosts over 100 stalls, 2 bars, and various activities such as a vintage carousel, Santa's grotto and Helter Skelter.

What train station is closest to Belfast Christmas Market?

Belfast Christmas Market is located in the very centre of Belfast City (map here) on the grounds of Belfast City Hall at Donegall Square. It is within a short walk (6-minutes) of the main transit hubs of the Europa Buscentre and Great Victoria Street Train Station (directions here).

What Can You Get For £20 at the Belfast Christmas Market?

What time do Belfast Christmas Markets open?

Opening times: Monday to Wednesday (10am to 8pm), Thursday to Saturday (10am to 10pm) and Sunday (12 noon to 6pm). Where is it? The Belfast Christmas Market is located in the grounds of Belfast City Hall, in the centre of Belfast. Parking is free around the city after 6pm.

Where are the best Christmas markets?

What is the most famous Christmas market in the UK?

Bath. Bath Christmas Market is both of one of the country's biggest and most enchanting; more than 170 stalls are squeezed into the cobbled streets around the Roman Baths and Bath Abbey.

What is the biggest Christmas market in Ireland?

Winterval: Ireland's Largest Christmas Festival! House of Waterford Factory and Retail Store.

Where to park for Belfast Christmas Market?

Where to Park for the Market. While street parking near City Hall is limited, especially during the festive rush, Q‑Park Victoria Square offers a practical alternative. Just a short walk from the market, this well-presented facility provides clear signage, bright surroundings, and a straightforward layout.

Do I need cash for Christmas markets?

Comfortable (and, ideally, waterproof) shoes are a must. Bring an extra (collapsible) shopping bag or two, in case browsing turns to buying. While more and more vendors take credit cards, it's wise to have cash, including small change for mug deposits, pay-to-pee bathrooms, and so on.

Do you have to book tickets for Christmas markets?

Winter Wonderland Christmas Market

Entrance tickets are required before you arrive (Off-Peak, Standard, or Peak), but if you spend £25 on any attraction, ride, or games online in advance of your visit, you'll also receive a free entrance ticket.

Where is the oldest Christmas Market in the UK?

The Lincoln Christmas Market is the oldest in the UK, starting in 1982. Set against the backdrop of Lincoln's stunning cathedral, it feels like stepping back in time. The market was inspired by traditional German Christmas markets and has grown to feature over 200 stalls.

What to do in Belfast at Christmas?

When to visit Christmas markets?

The Best Time for Visiting the Christmas Markets

Most do not open until mid-November, with the peak of the crowds coming in the second or third week of December. If I could book an ideal week, it would be that very first week in December, when you know everything will be open and not entirely crowded.

Which is better, Belfast or Galway Christmas markets?

Which is better Belfast or Galway Christmas market? If we had to choose one, having visited both in recent years, we'd argue that Galway is home to one of the best Christmas markets in Ireland in 2025.

What is the most beautiful Christmas market in the world?

Viennese Christmas Market, Vienna (Austria): The popular Viennese Christmas Market in front of Vienna City Hall is as picturesque as the Austrian capital city itself.

What is the easiest Christmas Market to get to from the UK?

Brussels Christmas market is voted one of the best Christmas markets in Europe and is a great market for a family break or weekend shopping trip at only 1 hour 53 minutes from London by Eurostar. The Brussels Christmas market 2025 runs from 28 November 2025 to 4 January 2026.

Where is the world's oldest Christmas Market?

However, it was Dresden's Striezelmarkt, first held in 1434, which is widely considered to be the first genuine Christmas Market. The word Striezelmarkt comes from Strüzel or Stroczel, a type of cake sold at the market with dried fruit and nuts, now known as Stollen or Christstollen.

Which city is best to visit at Christmas in the UK?

Where is the best Christmas shopping in the UK?

What is the Christmas market capital of the world?

"Strasbourg, capital of Christmas" is exceptionally renowned. Every year, close to two million visitors flock to the Alsatian capital to experience its enchanting market.

What is the Christmas capital of Germany?

Berlin Christmas Markets

With over 70 markets, Berlin is undoubtedly the Christmas market capital of Germany. Some markets start at the end of November, while other more local markets only take place over a single weekend during advent.