That magical time is almost here and there are so many things to do and see in such little time. If you can’t decide or find the right place to go over the holidays with your loved ones, don’t worry we’ve got the perfect list for you. Here’s a list of 5 great events in Northern Ireland for all the family to enjoy!

1) Belfast Christmas market

It’s not Christmas without attending Belfast’s most well-known winter market!

Paint a picture of curling up to a cozy glass of mulled wine and a pint of Irish beer in a festive Irish pub whilst watching the kids ride on the bright, enchanted Ferris wheel outside and listening to classic carols. For six weeks only (20th November – 23rd December), watch as the Belfast City grounds transform into Northern Ireland’s award-winning Continental Christmas market, displaying stalls filled with goodies from all over the world.

Great for families, kids can have their fair share of fun riding on Santa’s train, the busy-bee carousel, and many more rides. Mum and dad can enjoy themselves in the many Irish pubs around, not to mention there being over 32 different kinds of cuisines of food to feast on. From good old-fashioned crepes and pancakes to exotic wild boar and crocodile burgers – You can find it all here at the Belfast Christmas market.

There will also be a series of contests and competitions held throughout the duration of the Christmas market. To find out more information about this magical event, click the list below:

2) Enchanted Winter Garden in Atrim Gardens

Get ready to have an evening of fun as Northern Ireland’s premier event returns to the award-winning Antrim Gardens this holiday season.

The great Enchanted Winter Garden returns to Antrim Castle Gardens with a bang, offering an array of familiar rides and attractions such as the Wave Swinger, Wonderland Wood, and who can forget the classic Big Wheel. and carousel. Cozy up and make smores by the marshmallow firepit or dig into a delicious hot dog at one of the Enchanted Garden’s many vendors. There’s so much to do and see at this Christmas extravaganza!

It’s also worth mentioning that the Garden will also be hosting an Evening of Inclusive Enchantment for both children and adults with special needs on Wednesdays the 1st and December. This will include reduced numbers of people, lighting and sound levels, and a sensory & quiet room.

Sounds exciting? – Click the link below to find out more!

3) Santa’s Polar Express at Slieve Donard Resport & Spa – Newcastle

Hop on board and travel through the beautiful resort grounds and the North pole on Santa’s polar express. A great experience for young families.

For 10 days of the year, Slieve Donard resort & spa is truly a sight to see when Santa’s polar express comes to town, especially whilst the nearby Mourne mountains are topped with snow. This Polar Express is a great way to get into the spirit for the Christmas season.

Hop on board this wonderful train journey through Santa’s workshop and Winter Wonderland. Classic movies and writing letters, Christmas stalls throughout the trip all add to the festive experience. And at the end of the day, you’ll be greeted by the jolly St. Nicolas himself where kids will receive gifts and personalised photos. I don’t think it gets any better than that.

Santa’s Polar Express will open from Saturday 11th to Tuesday 21st of December – So hurry and get your tickets before it’s too late. For more information, click below.

4) A Christmas Carol at the Grand Opera House – Belfast

Watch this Charles Dickens classic come to life at Belfast’s leading theatre house.

For one week only, this sellout production is revived back into Belfast’s Grand Opera House this November. watching this fabulous musical adaptation to Dickens’ classic family tale is a great way to start off the festive holiday season.

Energic, magical, and uplifting from start to finish, expect to see a few ghostly surprises and learn about the true essence of Christmas in this heartwarming tale. A great experience for the whole family, ages young and old. For more information, click the link below.

5) Armagh Georgian Weekend – Armagh

Travel back in time and celebrate Christmas at the Armagh Georgian Weekend from Thursday the 25th to Sunday the 28th of November.

Join your family and friends as they show you their rich Georgian heritage with a touch of Christmas. T’is the season after all!

Enjoy a charming horse-drawn carriage ride down the Georgian mall, sample wonderful snacks at the markets, and more. There will be live music, Georgian characters, and mulled apple juice in the air. Enjoy the historic ambiance and dazzling festival lights.

For more information on this fantastic event, click the link below.

6) Winter Wonderland at Todds Leap – Ballygawley

Come along and tour the magical Winter Wonderland.

Mr. and Mrs. Claus along with their mischievous little elves have taken over Todds Leap once again over this December. This Santa’s Grotto has so much to offer: From visiting the elves at the post office, helping out at the workshop, and boarding the famous red sleigh – enjoy a complete Christmas experience.

if that’s not enough, there is a Christmas Courtyard & Treats for sale. Meet Santa’s animals, sing Christmas carols, do arts and crafts, and enjoy complimentary goodies while on the trail. For more information, click the link below.