Thousands of people gathered at Belfast City Hall for the big Christmas switch on as the most wonderful time of the year officially began – with a Dickensian twist.
Long queues formed before the gates to Belfast Christmas Market opened at 12pm on Saturday as the countdown to the illuminations started.
It coincided with the arrival of Santa and his little helpers as CastleCourt’s Santa Parade made its way through the city centre earlier in the afternoon.
Lord Mayor Micky Murray, accompanied by Cool FM presenters Pete Snodden, Paulo Ross and Rebecca McKinney, pressed the big button shortly after 6.30pm to usher in festive cheer at this year’s Victorian era themed market with many of those attending dressed in 19th century garb, including traders who dressed for the occasion.
Mr Murray said: “The Belfast Christmas Market has become an integral part of the festive experience in our city and it continues to be a popular draw for residents and visitors alike, 20 years after it first opened its doors.
“Kids Together Belfast are back again to deliver an accessible, inclusive Santa’s Grotto for local families and, with plenty of other seasonal fun planned in Belfast city centre, starting with our Christmas lights switch-on, it’s shaping up to be a packed festive season.”
Street artist Danni Simpson is among the vendors this year and is selling her heavily detailed decorative maps which contain many added extras.
“It’s been such a busy day with so many people coming through including families and tourists,” she told Sunday Life.
“The atmosphere has been really nice and it was a great first day of trading.
“So no complaints from me and I hope it continues.”
The popular yuletide market is celebrating its 20th anniversary and has grown in size from featuring just 28 temporary stalls in 2004 to more than 100 traditional chalets.
Over one million visitors from across the UK and Ireland make their way to the festive fair each year making it a significant contributor to the local economy – its economic impact exceeds £60m.
Allan Hartwell, Managing Director of Market Place said: “We are incredibly proud to be marking two decades of festive joy and cherished memories for locals and visitors alike.
“Belfast has always been so welcoming to our team and traders, and we’re delighted to have given back to the community over the years by offering young businesses free stalls, donating Santa’s Grotto to local charities, and hosting free educational tours for thousands of schoolchildren.
“We look forward to welcoming all who have made the market such a beloved tradition.”
The festive village offers something for everyone with vendors from 30 nationalities offering a variety of authentic cuisines such as bite-size Dutch pancakes, traditional German bratwurst sausages and delicious hand-crafted Italian chocolates.
Shoppers may find the the perfect Christmas gift at an impressive selection of stalls selling handcrafted goods and bespoke artisan products.
Six young entrepreneurs have been given a free stall this year in a ‘Jolly Big Business Boost’ to help them build brand recognition including Emma Goodman from Haus of Hank – she’s seeking shift as many thoughtfully designed and well-engineered pet accessories as possible.
The garments blend functionality with fashion, all while celebrating the bond between pets and their owners.
Family favourite attractions include the traditional carousel and vintage Helter Skelter which offers breath-taking views across the market and a thrilling slide back to street level for those who dare.
The Dickensian theme will make a comeback on the third weekend (November 30 to December 1) where visitors will once again be immersed in the Christmases of old.
Meanwhile there was plenty of singing and dancing as the man in red made his way to CastleCourt’s Winter Wonderland Grotto accompanied by dozens of Disney characters, Marvel heroes North Pole visitors.
However, Mr and Mrs Claus were the centre of attention and were joined by charity partner NI Hospice.