Northern Ireland’s Christmas markets are filled with festive family fun and fabulous artisan food and crafts.
A lively Christmas market where stalls heave with seasonal delights and fun activities abound for all the family is the perfect place to get into the yuletide spirit. In Northern Ireland, there are some great market experiences and, as the region is small, you can easily visit more than one.
The biggest is Belfast’s Christmas Market (15 November to 22 December) which turns the grounds of the city hall into a bright, buzzing, continental delight. Over 100 international and local traders set up their wares in pretty chalets offering amazing gift shopping opportunities and the chance to sample the finest artisan food and drink. Think sizzling Bratwurst sausages, delicious Spanish paella, specialty French cheeses, Italian chocolates, German Glühwein and Bailey’s coffee. There’s also plenty of entertainment for children with a helter-skelter, carousel, and a giant snow globe that is perfect for a Christmas family photo.
Along Northern Ireland’s stunning Causeway Coast, Christmas markets pop up in many towns to highlight the talents of local crafts people. In the pretty seaside town of Portstewart, the Flowerfield Christmas Craft Market (15 November to 23 December) showcases over 40 talented makers and artisans whose pottery, jewellery, textiles and other beautiful items make ideal Christmas gifts.
Another favourite is the Causeway Speciality Market (13 and 20 December) in Coleraine, famous for its award-winning artisan foods. And the roving Naturally North Coast & Glens Artisan Markets will be in Limavady, Ballymoney and Ballycastle in December selling fabulous artisan food and gifts. With gorgeous beaches, heritage hot-spots and scenic walking trails nearby, these markets can be just one element of a great day out on the Causeway Coast.
Northern Ireland’s magnificent stately homes also curate wonderful festive markets. At Castle Ward, a unique 18th-century mansion famed for its mixture of architectural styles, an artisan market (6 and 7 December) sets up in the Stable Yard selling a handpicked selection of work by local designer-makers and food vendors. There is also the opportunity to see the house dressed for an indulgent Georgian Christmas with lavish tablescapes, rooms draped with fresh greenery and plenty of festive food and wine for the upcoming parties.
In the historic town of Antrim, the Enchanted Winter Garden (28 November to 30 December) is a wonderland of lights, with illuminated fairy trees, thrilling funfair rides, a ferris wheel and stalls selling delicious warming food. It’s the perfect place for a Christmas family treat with activities to suit all ages from the gentle Teacup ride to the heart-pounding Avalanche experience. The Enchanted Cottage is full of Christmas magic and Santa is on hand to meet every child and listen to their Christmas wishes. Two dates are set aside as evenings of inclusive enchantment with a calmer environment, fewer people, reduced sound and lighting, and quiet rooms available.
Northern Ireland’s festive markets and family-friendly activities capture the magic of the season, creating a welcoming space where locals and visitors alike can enjoy the sights, sounds, tastes and spirit of Christmas.
