Belfast’s Christmas Market is wrapping up this week, with the annual festive fixture set to close on Friday.
The market – on the grounds of City Hall – opened on Saturday November 16, with stalls selling festive food and gifts for the family.
This year was the 20th anniversary of the market, which first came to the city in 2004, with over 100 chalets offering various Christmas treats.
To celebrate the milestone, organisers gave this year’s market a “Dickensian” theme with characters from classic Victorian tales appearing at the market on various weekends throughout the festive season.
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.”
Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Micky Murray, added: “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 on Saturday 16 November, it’s shaping up to be a packed festive season.”
Belfast Christmas Market will run until 6pm on Friday 20 December.
Opening hours are:
Monday – Wednesday: 10am – 8pm
Thursday: 10am – 10pm
Friday: 10am – 6pm