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.
Lord Mayor Micky Murray pressed the big button shortly after 6.30pm ushering in festive cheer at this year’s Victorian era themed event 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.
Charlie Chapman from Newtownabbey and Sophia Wharry from Ballygally melting marshmallows at Belfast Christmas Market. Pic by Liam McBurney/RAZORPIX
“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 this newspaper.
“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.”
From left; Donna Farrelly, Amy O’Reilly, and Leah Murphy from Louth at Lavery’s Beer Tent at Belfast Christmas Market. Pic by Liam McBurney/RAZORPIX
Around 90% of the market’s operating costs are dedicated to local businesses and suppliers, such as the joiners, electricians, security and waste management teams that engage in the day to day running of the market, demonstrating the citywide benefit of the award-winning event.
The annually built 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.
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.
There is a focus on supporting young and emerging businesses at this year’s event meaning Market Place has partnered with The National Market Traders Federation (NMTF) to offer six young entrepreneurs the chance to trade for free at the Belfast Christmas Market.
Visitors flock to the opening of Belfast Christmas Market on Saturday. Pic by Liam McBurney/RAZORPIX
It gives them a platform to build brand recognition and sell their product to thousands of visitors.
‘The Jolly Big Business Boost’, Haus of Hank, will be seeking to make the most of a free chalet to offer thoughtfully designed and well-engineered pet accessories that blend functionality with fashion, all while celebrating the bond between pets and their owners.
Santa’s magical grotto will help support one of the Lord Mayor’s charities, Kids Together Belfast, which works tirelessly on behalf of children with severe to moderate disabilities in addition to providing emotional and financial support to their families and carers.
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.