It’s certainly beginning to look, and feel, a lot like Christmas. With both Halloween (or Samhain) and Bonfire Night done and dusted, we are now on the inevitable march to this year’s big day.
Which means time to start thinking about Christmas gifts for those people in your life that aren’t handing you over their list for Santa, or yourself, to check over twice.
We’ve cast our Santa’s sack across the whole of Northern Ireland to bring to you 21 events to help you with that shop, and to also assist in keeping the little ones at bay as their excitement no doubt increases this time of year. From a chance to meet Santa Claus before his busiest night of the year, to artisanal markets offering something a little different in terms of stocking fillers this year.
Who knows - maybe by chance you might get a chance to bump into Santa more than once while he’s on tour across Northern Ireland?
21. Royal Hillsborough Christmas Market (December 12 & 13)
Enjoy this picturesque market set in the historic Royal Hillsborough village and fort grounds. The atmosphere is charming and ideal for catching the spirit of Santa's traditional winter. 🎅 The Dark Walk and Hillsborough Fort, Hillsborough, BT26 6AG. | [email protected]
22. Carryduff Christmas Market (December 16)
A convenient local Christmas market focused on community, local traders, and festive supplies near the Lidl Car Park. A useful last-minute stop before Santa's big day! 🎅 Lidl Car Park, Church Road, Carryduff, BT8 8DP. | Provided