North Belfast residents, get ready to dive into the festive spirit right on our doorstep! Belfast city centre is set to transform into a winter wonderland this Christmas, with a spectacular programme of free music and events designed to delight shoppers and families alike.
The heart of the city will resonate with the 'sounds of the season' every weekend and in the run-up to Christmas, thanks to the city's vibrant festive animation programme. Titled 'Under a Christmas Sky' and curated by Snow Water, this fantastic initiative showcases an incredible array of local talent. Expect to hear everything from the uplifting melodies of brass bands and harmonious choirs to enchanting soloists, harpists, and carol singers. There will even be performances from NI Music Prize winners and a special Chordblossom festive showcase at City Hall.
These free pop-up performances are perfect for catching while you’re out and about. Mark your diaries: performances run every Thursday and Friday from 5:30pm to 7:30pm, and every Saturday and Sunday from 2pm to 5pm. Keep an eye on official city centre event listings for specific venues and times.
Don't miss these magical moments planned for the coming weeks:
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Belfast Musical Theatre choir: City Hall, Saturday 13 December (2pm)
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Trim the Velvet dancers: St George’s Market, Sunday 14 December (12pm)
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Soprano Petra Wells: City Hall, Sunday 14 December and Saturday 20 December
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Hazelwood Integrated School choir (80-strong!): City Hall, Thursday 18 December (5:30pm), followed by harpist Lauren O’Neill at 6:30pm
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Belfast Community Gospel Choir: Belfast Grand Central Station, Sunday 21 December (3:30pm)
As a UNESCO City of Music, Belfast proudly showcases its incredible local talent, and this festive programme provides a wonderful platform for our skilled musicians while creating a truly special atmosphere for everyone visiting the city. Local authorities have invested an additional £50,000 this year to enhance our seasonal offerings, ensuring there's plenty to see and do for all ages.
Beyond the music, look out for other free activities including delightful pop-up theatre performances, a stunning fire and light show, and cheerful walkabout Christmas characters. You might even spot some salsa dancing at Grand Central Station and other locations, adding an unexpected sparkle to your shopping trip!
The city is also looking more festive than ever with additional Christmas lighting illuminating Ann Street, Arthur Street, Bank Square, and Bridge Street, alongside upgraded lighting in areas supported by our Business Improvement Districts. To ensure everyone feels safe and welcome, particularly with later shop opening hours, Safer Neighbourhood Officers are on extra patrol. And for those planning a late night out, Translink’s late-night bus services (part-funded by local initiatives) are expected to be busy, making it easier and safer to get home.
For all your Christmas shopping and foodie delights, our wonderful markets are ready to welcome you! St George’s Market will be open as usual on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, with its last market of the season on Sunday 21 December. Smithfield Market is also extending its hours, open on Sundays throughout December from 1pm to 6pm, in addition to its regular Monday to Saturday schedule (9:30am to 5:30pm).
To make sure you don't miss a thing, keep an eye on official city centre event listings. For real-time updates and all the #BelfastChristmasCountdown content, follow @ on both Facebook and Instagram.