Where to go for a Day Out at Christmas in Belfast

Nothing screams Christmas in Belfast more than the arrival of the Continental Christmas Market to the grounds of City Hall. This year’s market is bound for the city from 20th November to 23rd December, and if you’re planning the ultimate Christmas Day Out in Belfast this is one staple you cannot miss. Welcoming vendors from far and wide, this festive affair offers everything from tasty treats to handmade crafts, thrilling attractions, and more. Our personal favourites include the fluffy Dutch pancakes covered in hot chocolate sauce and lashings of cream, the traditional German sausages that are big enough to serve a small family, and the fantastic Yorkshire puddings filled with all the offerings of a traditional Christmas dinner. And, don’t forget, the market is also home to two lively beer tents where you can enjoy a pint, some live music, and some festive cheer with friends!

For the first time ever, Botanic Gardens Belfast is transforming into a fantastic winter wonderland experience filled with glittering Christmas lights and festive treasures to discover. From the creators of Dublin Zoo’s ever popular Wild Lights, Bright Lights Botanic is set to be one of the best festive events in the city this year. The twinkling light trail will take guests on a fantastic illuminated journey through the 80,000 square metres of gardens tucked away in South Belfast. Kids will love following the trail of BOBO, the friendly gnome as he makes his magic way through the gardens. The event is set to take place from 11th November to 9th January and is the perfect festive day out for the whole family. Along the trail, vendors will offer tasty festive treats, including hot food and sweet treats, spiced winter drinks and delicious hot chocolate. Tickets are priced at £10 for seniors and those under 16 and £15 for adults. This is sure to be an unforgettable festive experience for all!

For an afternoon spent laughing so hard that your stomach hurts, you need to check out the annual Christmas pantomime at the Grand Opera House in Belfast. After undergoing an extensive renovation, the Grand Opera House has reopened and will be returning with one of the most highly anticipated events of Belfast’s Christmas calendar. Dame May McFettridge and the gang will be returning to the stage for this year’s show, Goldilocks and the Three Bears, which will take place from 27th November to 9th January. The ultimate way to ring in the season in the city, this festive extravaganza is sure to delight people of all ages. Featuring side-splitting comedy, incredible special effects, thrilling circus acts, and music galore, you can’t spend a Christmas day out in Belfast without checking out ‘The Greatest Panto on Earth’.

Enjoy fantastic views out over the city illuminated by colourful Christmas lights as you sit back and relax with a Festive Afternoon Tea in the Observatory at the Grand Central Hotel. At 22 storeys above ground, you will enjoy unrivalled views of the city and the Christmas Market, which is just around the corner. For world-class hospitality, delicious light bites, and steaming hot tea to rid you of that winter chill, this experience is an absolute must. Priced at £40 per person, the afternoon tea menu here features a range of Christmas teas, such as cinnamon-spiced black tea, a unique popcorn, ginger, and apple blend, and more. When it comes to food, guests can enjoy a range of dainty finger sandwiches, including one filled with the classic roast turkey and cranberry sauce, warm homebaked scones served with clotted cream and preserves, and delicious festive desserts, including an iced Christmas cake, warmed mince pies, and more. The perfect break from an afternoon spent Christmas shopping!