The Original Belfast Christmas Market Returns - Kicking Off Christmas And Providing A Multi-Million-Pound Economic Boost For The City

The Original Belfast Christmas Market Returns - Kicking Off Christmas And Providing A Multi-Million-Pound Economic Boost For The City.

Following the sensational success of the Fleadh Cheoil, which showcased the city at its vibrant best, Belfast is preparing to welcome visitors from near and far once again as build work begins this week for the iconic Belfast Christmas Market.

The city’s longest-running and most successful seasonal event is expected to draw record numbers of visitors, with a high turnout anticipated from travellers returning to experience more of Belfast’s world-class hospitality and festive charm.

The Belfast Christmas Market will officially open its gates at 12 noon on Saturday 14 November, running until 22 December in the stunning gardens of Belfast City Hall.

Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Róis-Máire Donnelly, said: “Tá clú agus cáil ar Mhargadh Nollag Bhéal Feirste mar gheall ar an fháilte mhór a chuirtear roimh dhaoine, a thugann daoine ó chian agus ó chóngar le chéile leis an chuid is fearr dár

gcathair a cheiliúradh. “Belfast Christmas Market is famed for its warm and welcoming spirit, bringing people together from near and far to celebrate the very best of our city. It’s a wonderful platform for local talent, showcasing our fine emerging and established entrepreneurs and some of our St George’s Market traders alongside the fabulous international traders whom we have welcomed back to Belfast year on year. This unique blend adds so much richness and diversity to the market offer, creating magical festive memories for everyone who visits.”

Welcoming over 1.2 million visitors annually and generating more than £74 million in economic impact, the Belfast Christmas Market plays a vital role in the city’s seasonal economy. Sustainability remains a cornerstone of operations, with ongoing environmental initiatives leading to an 85% reduction in non-biodegradable packaging across the event.

Demonstrating an ongoing commitment to the local talent, once again 50% of this year’s Christmas market traders are local, with traders from St George's Market represented in their very own dedicated stall throughout the five-week run. And it’s not just traders that benefit from the market; all fresh vegetables used across the market's food stalls are sourced directly from local suppliers.

Behind the scenes, the event delivery team who build and run the market, including electricians, health & safety staff, security, design, and the communications team, are all based in the city and have been working together on the market for the last 22

years. Strengthening this local presence, Market Place has introduced new Belfast based Market Manager Joanne Finlay, who will be based in the city year-round. Joanne Finlay, Market Manager, said: “The Belfast Christmas Market is more than just a festive attraction, it’s now an institution, a celebration of culture, community and commerce. Each year, our goal is to create an experience that brings people together, champions local businesses, and proudly showcases Belfast on an international stage. I am thrilled to be working alongside such a highly regarded team to maximise the benefit of markets to the people of Belfast and beyond.”

This year, visitors will be spoilt for choice with a huge variety of authentic international treats too, including crêpes from France, Dutch pancakes, Belgian chocolates, an exotic selection of burgers, giant bratwurst from the iconic Schwenkgrille, Spanish paella and chocolate delights from Italy. Visitors can take a culinary trip around the world before relaxing in one of the bars, serving pints of the black stuff, steins of continental beer or traditional Gluwhein until late into the evening.

With free entry for all, the market offers a vibrant shopping experience too, with an extensive selection of artisan products, from ornate Christmas decorations and handcrafted candles to cosy hats and scarves, perfect for ticking off that all-important shopping list.

Christmas isn’t complete without hearing the laughter of excited children, and families will find plenty to delight them at this year’s market. Returning to the festive village is the traditional carousel and the vintage Helter Skelter, offering panoramic views of the market and a thrilling descent for those brave enough to take the slide.

Families and friends can also capture magical memories with a photo inside the giant snow globe or gather around the fire to toast marshmallows.

In a continued effort to support local community causes, the market is continuing its support for local charities, with donations being made to the Lord Mayor’s charities. In addition, Market Place has partnered with the National Market Traders Federation  (NMTF) again this year to donate chalets to regional finalist of the Young Traders initiative offering a vital platform for young entrepreneurs to showcase their innovative products to thousands of visitors.

Tanya Murphy, Business Development Manager at the NMTF said ‘Market Place have been a key sponsor of the Young Traders Market (YTM) initiative for many years and as such have been instrumental in helping us encourage and prepare the next generation of traders. Across the industry The Young Traders Market Programme is recognised as a fabulous initiative, by providing space for Northern Ireland’s YTM regional finalists at the award-winning Belfast Christmas Market, we can ensure our entrepreneurs are learning by example from the very best in the business.’ Our official Travel Partner Dublin Express will be offering convenient transport options and exclusive giveaways throughout the season.

Padraig McGrane at Dublin Express, said: “Dublin Express are delighted to be on board as travel partner with the Belfast Christmas Market for a third year. We’re looking forward to a busy festive season across our services, bringing you to the heart of Belfast city centre.”

Visitors can stay up to date with market news, entertainment schedules and weather by following us on Instagram (@belfastchristmasmarketofficial). Media partner Q Radio will be on-site engaging with and offering spot prizes to lucky visitors.

Errol Doherty, Programme Manager and Head Of Music at Q Radio, said: “The Belfast Christmas Market is always a highlight in Q Radio’s calendar, and as a station based right in the heart of the city, we love being at the centre of the action. The market truly brings Belfast to life, and our DJs and the Q crew will be making multiple visits to the market throughout the season with goodies galore for lucky visitors.”

Belfast Christmas Market will open in the gardens of Belfast City Hall at 12noon on

Saturday 14 November and run until 6pm on Tuesday 22 December.

Opening hours are:

Monday – Wednesday 10am – 8pm

Thursday – Saturday 10am – 10pm

Sunday 12noon – 6pm

ENDS

For further information, media tours, images or interviews please contact Esther

Haller Clarke, E:esther@hallerclarkehurson.com

T: 07830513296