Christmas Cheer Blooms Across North Belfast with Community Events

Communities across North Belfast and the wider city have been wrapped in festive cheer this holiday season, thanks to a fantastic initiative that supported over 90 Christmas events. A significant £85,000 in funding was distributed to lead organisations working with local community groups, ensuring a wide array of activities could reach older residents, young children, and families. This funding was split into five grants, each worth £17,000, benefiting projects in the north, south, east, and west of the city, alongside the Greater Shankill area.

In North Belfast, residents enjoyed a diverse range of festive activities designed to bring people together. Highlights included popular winter wreath-making workshops, delightful Santa’s grottos for the little ones, and helpful healthy eating packs for families. A particularly heartwarming initiative saw the distribution of ‘hugs in a mug’ to older people, offering a warm gesture of care and connection during the colder months.

Similar joyous events unfolded across other parts of the city. In West Belfast, funding facilitated activities in Falls Park and Páirc Nua Chollan, alongside sensory events for children with additional needs and lively family fun days. South Belfast saw community groups host vibrant lights switch-on events, inter-generational activities, and festive dinners for older residents, all aimed at strengthening local bonds. Meanwhile, ten groups in East Belfast focused on reducing social isolation through lantern parades, spirited Christmas parties, and carol singing. The Greater Shankill area celebrated with its annual Winter Festival, featuring a colourful parade, live music, a local market, and a festive light switch-on.

Belfast's Lord Mayor, Councillor Tracy Kelly, expressed her delight at the success of these community-led celebrations. "Communities and families are truly at the heart of Christmas," she remarked, "and it's wonderful that we've been able to support these local events. They bring people together, especially those who might need a little extra support at this time of year." She added, "It does the heart good to witness the incredible community spirit in every neighbourhood, with people looking out for their neighbours and celebrating the season together. A huge well done to all the event organisers and our own dedicated staff who went the extra mile to ensure everyone was included."

The success of these funded events truly showcased the strong community spirit alive and well across Belfast, ensuring a brighter, more connected festive season for all.