Top Christmas Events Beyond Belfast

Until 5 January

Hillsborough Castle and Gardens

Explore the gardens adorned with dazzling decorations inspired by the 12 Days of Christmas, and stay on the look out for our polar bear in the pond and a giant Advent calendar! Families will love discovering hidden gems, from a secret grotto to a garden trail. Continue your journey inside the beautiful Castle, where twinkling lights and Christmas trees fill the grand State Rooms with festive cheer.

Until 21 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. Visit the Wonderland Wood, enjoy the twinkling lights, drop in on Santa and don’t forget the rides, attractions, and mouth-watering food in the Festive Food Fayre.

6 – 7 December

Montalto Estate

Join for a festive Twilight Market at The Carriage Rooms! Explore an array of artisan food stalls, handmade gifts, mulled wine, and local craft stalls from Northern Irish suppliers, perfect for picking out unique Christmas gifts. Soak in live music that adds a festive touch to the evening.

Until 31 December

Mount Stewart

Step into the magic of Christmas at Mount Stewart, where a season of festive delights awaits! Embark on Mount Stewart’s festive trail, view the house dressed for Christmas, enjoy carols by the Northern Ireland Concert Orchestra and more!

12 – 19 December

Slieve Donard

This Christmas, you’re invited to embark on an enchanting adventure that will take you from the grounds of Slieve Donard, all the way to the North Pole. Whether you’re young or young at heart, The Northern Light at Slieve Donard promises to create memories you’ll cherish for years to come.

Until 22 December

Ulster Folk Museum

Wander the snowy, cobbled streets of the Ulster Folk Museum and experience Christmas the traditional way. See the Folk Museum decorated for the festive season, from the grandeur of the Rectory to the simplicity of the Tea Lane houses. Meet their craft demonstrators as they prepare for seasonal celebrations and take in the festive scents of cinnamon toast warming on the open fire.

Until 22 December

Strangford Lough Activity Centre

Santa Cruise is Strangford Lough Activity Centre’s unique & intimate family Christmas experience. Join their merry old elf for a hair-raising sleigh ride around the islands aboard their fast speed boat – Black Jacket. 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.

Until 5 January

North Down Museum

Back by popular demand, the Made in AND: Pop-Up Christmas Shop is a unique shopping experience in the lead up to Christmas at North Down Museum! Explore and browse the museum, filled with beautiful hand-made products from over 30 makers. The perfect place to get that extra special gift and support your local artists and crafters.

13 December

The Dark Walk, Hillsborough Fort

Join for festive cheer and experience a truly festive Christmas market as you stroll through the stalls along The Dark Walk. Enjoy a hot drink and bite to eat against the backdrop of Hillsborough Fort and be entertained by local choirs, ukelele collectives and acoustic musicians.

Until 23 December

Lisburn Castle Gardens

Let beams of light across the skyline guide you to the spectacular Lisburn Light Trail, a must-see attraction in Castle Gardens. Entry is FREE from 4 pm to 8:30 pm daily, with last entry at 8pm. With Santa’s Grotto, a mini-Christmas market and live music every Wednesday – Saturday, it is perfect for all ages.

Until 3 January

Ulster American Folk Park

Step into Christmas past, full of nostalgia and traditions as you wander the wintery scenes of the Ulster American Folk Park, Omagh.  Look at traditional Christmas cards, write your letter to Father Christmas and bring your camera for a photograph at the sleigh, as the little ones enjoy their Christmas tree trail.

Until 22 December

WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre

Santa will join you during breakfast for festive fun and storytelling. Then, Santa will guide you to the Aviary for a special hand-feeding session with our ducks and geese. Afterwards, set off across the reserve on the Reindeer Trail to find all of Santa’s reindeer.

20 – 21 December

Ulster Transport Museum

Settle in for a festive evening in the nostalgic setting of the Ulster Transport Museum, surrounded by Northern Ireland’s rich transport heritage. You can see two of your Christmas favourites – The Polar Express and It’s a Wonderful Life. Your ticket includes access to the Rail Gallery at the ticket times advertised and a warm drink (hot chocolate at The Polar Express or a mulled wine at It’s a Wonderful Life).

Until 23 December

Jungle NI

Join this December, for one of the most unique Christmas experiences in Ireland. Christmas Wonderland at The Jungle is the ultimate festive day out for families, where colourfully illuminated woodlands, friendly elves and sackfuls of festive cheer set the scene for a different kind of family day out.

Until 21 December

Bow Street, Lisburn

Small festive market each Thursday, Friday and Saturday under the twinkling light of Bow Street. The mini market features local businesses and social enterprises offering everything from sweet treats to unique crafts and special gifts.