Top Christmas Events Beyond Belfast

Until 07 January

Hillsborough Castle and Gardens

Wrap up warm, bring your family and friends, and get ready for a heart-warming festive adventure. There are 12 giant The Snowman™ sculptures to discover, each beautifully hand painted by a different artist and inspired by the timeless Christmas classic ’12 Days of Christmas’. Can you find them all?

09 – 10 December

Rowallane Garden

The annual Yuletide Market returns to Rowallane Garden this Christmas. Get in the Christmas spirit as you browse the stalls in search of those special gifts, take in the smells of the season and hear the sounds of choirs floating through the garden.

02 – 23 December

Ulster Folk Museum

Wander the snowy, cobbled streets of the Ulster Folk Museum and experience a truly traditional Christmas. Meet their craft demonstrators as they prepare for seasonal celebrations and take in the festive scents of Christmas pudding warming on the griddle. Listen out for carol singers, traditional musicians, with added festive sounds from a harpist and brass band.

Hold onto your santa hats as you fly through the waters of Strangford Lough. You will be carol singing all the way, listening to some Christmas tunes whilst riding the waves back to Santa’s Grotto. Warm up by the fireside in the cosy cabin with mince/apple pies, mulled wine or hot chocolate. Then visit Santa and the elves and find out if you’ve been naughty or nice!

Until 07 January

North Down Museum

Come and visit a unique shopping experience this Christmas at North Down Museum! Browse the museum’s galleries, which are filled with beautiful hand-made products from local artists and makers. The perfect place to get that special gift and support your local crafters.

08 December

The Dark Walk, Hillsborough Fort

Discover delicious treats and unique gifts from local artisan makers amongst the glittering lights on The Dark Walk within the stunning floodlit location of Hillsborough Fort.

What could be more magical at Christmas time, than a visit to meet Santa Claus himself, in the warmth of the Montalto House library? On arrival, meet Santa’s Head Elf, and listen carefully to the secrets and magic that await – Wrap up warm as little ones (and big ones) take a journey – accompanied by the Head Elf – through their Enchanted Christmas Trail, before reaching Montalto House where the magic really begins

13 & 20 December

Ulster American Folk Park

Experience the joy of Christmas past with a guided tour through the cobbled streets of Ulster where you’ll taste warm mince pies and apple punch and listen to Christmas carols and festive stories.

Experience a unique winter illumination event at the Argory and create lasting memories with your loved ones. Look out for the magical light projections that beautifully illuminate the grand mansion house and dance along the captivating lime tree walkway. On your way back, follow a picturesque boardwalk that will lead you back to our welcoming courtyard, where you can indulge in delightful music and comforting winter treats

09 – 17 December

Castle Ward

Check out The Castle Ward Christmas village at their decorated farmyard, offering an array of crafts, storytelling, and a visit to Mrs. Claus’ cottage, and Santa on his Christmas Tractor.

Until 19 December

Antrim Castle Gardens

As the winter sun sets over Lough Neagh, Antrim Castle Gardens comes to life with a magical Christmas experience for all the family. Many attractions and traders have been confirmed and word on the ‘Antrim High Street’ is that The Grinch is planning on stealing the show.