Belfast’s Christmas Market is one of the best on the island of Ireland and is sure to fill visitors with Christmas cheer!

Belfast Christmas Market

Each December, the grounds of Belfast’s imposing City Hall are transformed into a sparkling Christmas extravaganza. Belfast Christmas Market attracts visitors from across the world, as well as from the UK and Ireland and, this year, it is set to welcome over a million people.

Famous for its extensive range of international cuisine, the market is a wonderful spot to while away an afternoon or evening.

French crêpes, Dutch pancakes, Belgian chocolates, Spanish paella, Italian sweets and giant bratwursts from the Schwenkegrill are just some of the mouth-watering continental treats on offer. Gourmets will also delight in the more unusual specialities that can be enjoyed such as ostrich, wild boar and crocodile burgers. A number of new vegan stalls also join the market this year.

Little wonder that Belfast Christmas market was recently named best Christmas market in the UK for international food by Condé Nast Traveller!

Belfast Christmas Market

The market’s beer tents provide a cosy respite from the winter chill and serve local and continental drinks such as hot Gluhwein and mulled cider, helping everyone get into the festive spirit. And there’s warming hot chocolate - with or without a shot of Bailey’s Irish liqueur.

But it’s not all about food. Among the 100 stalls are many selling beautiful crafts, fashion, handcrafted cosmetics, jewellery, garlands and art, making it a great place to pick up some brilliant Christmas presents.

For added fun, the giant helter-skelter is back this year, as is the colourful carousel and, of course, Santa’s grotto.

St George’s Market in Belfast

Belfast’s other famous market, St George’s, also gets into the Yuletide mood in December. This Victorian-era covered market is one of the city’s oldest attractions and is packed with local fare, arts and crafts, and vintage collectables. Live music adds to the vibrant atmosphere.

Shopping in Belfast City Centre

And in Victoria Square, the city’s premier retail destination, a Christmas Fayre takes place right up until Christmas Eve. Showcasing the best in local crafts and handmade items, the fayre takes place in the centre of the shopping area which is bedecked with a dazzling display of Christmas lights.

Janet Redler, Managing Director of Janet Redler Travel, said: “Belfast at Christmas is a fabulous place to be, and its markets certainly add to the Christmas spirit. There is so much to see and do that it really is worth including a visit to Belfast on any winter tour of the UK and Ireland.”

If you or your group would like to enjoy a tailor-made tour of Northern Ireland in the run up to Christmas, including a visit to Belfast, please do contact our friendly team today.