Newsletter
Join the Community
Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest news and updates
The beloved Vault Christmas Market returns to Carlisle Memorial this weekend (December 6-7), bringing over 80 stalls of unique, handmade goods to North Belfast. This year, organizers are taking a strong ethical stand, banning all AI-generated art and products to protect the integrity and livelihoods of genuine human artists. Visitors can expect a quirky, festive atmosphere, delicious food, live DJs, and the new Godzilla Santa Grotto.
2025/12/05
Get ready for some serious festive cheer! The highly anticipated Vault Christmas Market is back at the stunning Carlisle Memorial in North Belfast this weekend, December 6-7. But beyond the unique gifts and quirky atmosphere, the market is making headlines for its strong ethical commitment to genuine human creativity.
Organizers have announced a strict policy: no AI-generated art or products created using AI tools will be permitted among the market's 80+ traders. This decision stems from growing concerns about AI's negative impact on independent artists' livelihoods, as well as issues surrounding copyright, privacy, and environmental disregard.
Vault co-chairs, Linda McBurney and Kirsti McHenry, emphasized the market's core values, stating: “Our market has always been about real, quality, local and authentic art, gifts, food and drink in an environment of community festive fun, not apps and prompting machines.” This proactive move is designed to protect the integrity of the market and its studio members, ensuring visitors find truly unique, handmade goods. The market is also proud to be partnering again with the Belfast Buildings Trust.
Over the course of the weekend, the former church will be packed with high-quality items, including beautiful jewellery, original paintings and illustrations, unique stained glass, fine art prints, vintage clothing, and books. Entry is free!
For refreshments, The Sunflower will be providing drinks throughout the weekend, complemented by a fantastic range of independent food and drink vendors offering delicious hot and cold options. Keep an ear out for the sounds provided by DJ Venus Roller Girl and DJ Neal.
Look out for regular walkabout performances, Christmas elves, and the notorious ‘The Santa You Deserve’ (aka ‘Bad Santa’) causing mischief or perhaps just snoozing in a corner. New this year is the incredible Godzilla Santa Grotto, occupying one of the building's most beautiful areas, offering a unique spot for festive photos.