Belfast always has a good vibe. But at Christmas, the whole city comes alive with colour, music and the smell of delicious treats drifting through the air. The Belfast Christmas Market is the shining star of the season, transforming the city centre into a Christmassy world of twinkling lights, local crafts and festive food. Whether you’re coming for your annual Christmas shopping trip or planning a festive weekend away, this guide has everything you need to know.
What date is the Christmas Market in Belfast?
This year’s market runs from Saturday 15th November to Monday 22nd December 2025.
Opening times are Monday to Wednesday 10am to 8pm, Thursday to Saturday 10am to 10pm and Sunday 12 noon to 6pm.
The Belfast Christmas Market has become a staple of the festive season. It’s been running for over 20 years now and it’s a great way to get in the Christmas spirit.
Where is Belfast Christmas Market held?
The market takes place right in the beating heart of Belfast city centre at:
Belfast City Hall
Donegall Square
Belfast
County Antrim
BT1 5GS
This iconic setting of the grounds of city hall is part of the magic. The grand backdrop of Belfast City Hall lit up in festive colours looks amazing in photos (as well as real life obviously).
It’s run by the award-winning company Market Place (who also present the Spring Continental Market) in conjunction with Belfast City Council.
With its central location, the market’s incredibly easy to reach on foot, by bus or train. It’s also surrounded by cafes, bars, shops and restaurants to visit before or after your market experience. Conveniently, it’s only a seven minute walk from room2 Belfast as well. City centre car parks are free after 6pm and the Victoria Square car park is only five minutes away from Belfast City Hall.
Is Belfast Christmas Market good?
We may be biased, but we think it’s a must-visit experience during the run up to Christmas in Belfast. It’s full of seasonal cheer, Christmas goodies and fun experiences for big and little ones. But don’t just take our word for it.
Belfast Christmas Market consistently ranks among the best festive markets in Ireland and the UK. It attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. Here are a few reasons why:
A huge variety of stalls: Browse everything from handcrafted goods by local traders to continental market stalls
Santa’s Grotto: Take your little ones to meet the man himself
Brilliant food options: Sample delicious taste sensations from local artisan products to international foodie treats
Sensational scenery: Seeing the impressive City Hall glowing in lights, along with the glorious grounds themselves, is something special
Great entertainment: Enjoy the sights and sounds from live music to carousels and the festive buzz around the market.
What food and drink can you find at the Belfast Christmas Market?
One of the best reasons to go to the market is the food. You’ll find a mix of local traders with artisan products to international sellers bringing global flavours. Stop by the beer tent. Warm up with a mulled wine or festive-spiced latte. And explore over 100 chalets in the market’s festive village and food court.
Local foodie favourites
- Hot chocolate topped with whipped cream
- Fresh fudge and Belfast-made sweets
- Northern Ireland’s finest craft ales in the beer tent
- Local cheese, chutneys and artisan bakes.
International flavours
- Dutch pancakes (poffertjes)
- French crêpes and pastries
- Spanish paella bubbling away in giant pans
- German Glühwein, bratwurst, beers and pretzels
- Italian cannoli and chocolates
- Churros dipped in warm chocolate.
The food queues tend to peak between 6 and 8pm. If you want to graze your way around the stalls, go earlier for less waiting time.
Do you have to pay to get into Belfast Christmas Market?
The good news is that entry to the Belfast Christmas Market is completely free. You simply walk in, wander around and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
There will be plenty to spend your money on though! There are heaps of goodies to eat, drink and buy. Little ones will be desperate to try out the carousel, helter-skelter and children’s rides. Plus, you’ll find charges for some other activities too.
8 insider tips to make the most of your visit
1. Go midweek: Weekends get super busy, so go midweek if you want more breathing room.
2. Plan your gift-shopping: You’ll find plenty of handcrafted goods that make thoughtful presents. Don’t forget your shopping list!
3. Make a day of it: Explore the shops on nearby Royal Avenue and the sights in Cathedral Quarter too.
4. Layer up: It is Belfast in December, after all.
5. Take a City Hall photo at night: It’s one of the prettiest sights in the city during winter. For a bird’s eye view, head to the top of the helter-skelter.
6. Bring cash and card: Most stalls take cards or contactless payments now, but a few smaller traders may prefer cash.
7. Warm up nearby: There are plenty of cosy cafés and cracking pubs in neighbouring streets if you need a break from the cold.
8. Arrive by public transport: The area around City Hall can get busy. Translink’s train and metro services make it easy to access Belfast city centre.
Why you’ll love Belfast at Christmas
Christmas in Belfast is a truly special time. The whole city leans into festive season. Think sparkling lights, cosy pubs, independent boutiques, winter pop-ups and friendly seasonal vibes. Whether you’re staying for a weekend or popping by on a day trip, the Belfast Christmas Market is a core part of the experience. It’s joyful, atmospheric and warmly welcoming.
If you’re making a weekend of it or want to linger longer than a day trip, book a stay at room2 Belfast. We’re conveniently located in the city centre and will give you a warm welcome as well as flexible options for your stay.