North Belfast Families: Enjoy Free Fun at City Hall on Lord Mayor's Day!

North Belfast families are invited to mark their calendars for a brilliant day of free fun at Belfast City Hall! The Lord Mayor’s Day, set for Saturday 9 May 2026, from 1pm to 5pm, promises an exciting array of activities designed especially for children and teens as Councillor Tracy Kelly’s term as First Citizen draws to a close. It’s a fantastic opportunity for young people to engage, learn, and have a memorable time right in the heart of our city.

Get ready to get active with a superb line-up of sports activities. Kids can try their hand at boxing, fencing, and table tennis, as part of the city's European City of Sport celebrations. Look out for dazzling displays from local clubs like Full Circle Martial Arts, showcasing kickboxing, and Sandy Row Falcons with their energetic cheerleading moves. Fitness Freddy will also be there to get everyone moving with his high-energy sessions, perfect for both children and parents.

The day isn't just about high energy; it also puts a strong focus on wellbeing. The Belfast Health Development Unit will host 'Take 5 Steps to Wellbeing' workshops, promoting self-care and good health. Children can enjoy making their own healthy treats on GLL’s smoothie bikes, while Explore Wellbeing Kids offers relaxed, family-friendly mindfulness sessions with fun games and calm music. Tre-Eco, one of the Lord Mayor’s chosen charities, will provide a peaceful space for crafts, mindful colouring, and even sunflower planting for budding gardeners.

Creativity will flourish on the City Hall lawns with circus skills workshops, sensory play, and imaginative activities made from recycled materials. Inside the Great Hall, music lovers can enjoy a 'Good Vibes Only' disco rave or a silent disco. For children with additional needs, Open Arts will present 'Take Away Theatre', allowing them to create their own performance (pre-booking essential by emailing [email protected]). Plus, dive into global cultures with ArtsEkta's crafts and explore the cutting-edge world of VR gaming, animation, and DJing with Wheelworks Arts.

Cool FM’s Stuart Robinson will be joining the festivities live, bringing music, interactive fun, and exciting prize giveaways. You’ll also have the chance to learn about the vital work of Little Heroes and NI Alternatives, two more of the Lord Mayor's charities, and maybe even spot some surprise characters wandering the City Hall grounds!

Councillor Kelly shared her enthusiasm for the event, highlighting her commitment to engaging young people and fostering their development in sports, creativity, and music. She emphasised how these activities help build skills, friendships, resilience, and overall wellbeing. This free event promises a truly jam-packed day, celebrating the amazing young people of our city. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity for a great family day out!