Belfast Christmas Market 2026: 100 Chalets at City Hall

Drawing over a million visitors each winter, the Belfast Christmas Market has grown into one of the biggest seasonal events in the region. With around 100 chalets and a strong lineup of international food traders alongside local craft sellers, it’s a serious draw for a city that’s become increasingly confident as a short-break destination.

Belfast Christmas Market 2026

Dates

Status: Expected, based on previous years
Belfast dates: 14th November to 22nd December 2026
Last checked: July 2026

Update: Last year’s dates were announced in July. Sign up for our newsletter to be notified of changes.

Source: Verified by Ultimate Christmas Markets via Belfast City Council.

Plan Your Visit

Location and Times

Location: Belfast City Hall.
Opening times:
Monday to Wednesday: 10am to 8pm.
Thursday to Saturday: 10am to 10pm.
Sunday: 12pm to 6pm.
Christmas Day: Closed.

Travel and Accommodation

Recommended tour: Political Taxi Tour.
Public transport: Take the Glider to May Street. Buses run every 8 minutes.
Parking: Please take public transport to help limit congestion. Park & Ride services are available.
Where to stay: Ten Square Hotel is directly across from City Hall.

Amenities and Attractions

Admission: Free.
Lights switch-on: Saturday, 15th November. Lights run until the 6th January 2026.
Santa: Yes.
Ice skating: There is a covered ice skating rink.
Reason to visit: Take your pick from more than 100 chalets, have a drink at the famous beer tent and don’t miss the German gluhwein direct from the Mosel Valley.

Dietary Options

Vegetarian: Yes, plenty of options.
Vegan: Yes, plenty of options.
Gluten-free: Limited. Ask individual vendors, but beware of cross-contamination.
Food specialities: French crepes, Dutch pancakes, Belgian chocolates and Spanish paella.

Accessibility

Accessible: Yes.
Pet-friendly: Yes, dogs are allowed on a lead.

Convenient Hotels

Belfast’s compact city centre stretches from the Grand Opera House to Waterfront Hall, with Belfast City Hall between the two. This is the best area to stay. It’s easily walkable, and there are regular bus services. I suggest staying at the Ten Square Hotel, which is directly across from City Hall.

Interesting Tours

The Political Taxi Tour is one of the most popular and interesting tours in Belfast. It showcases the city’s history surrounding the Troubles.

Alternatively, a food tour can provide an opportunity to learn about the local culture through its diverse cuisine. This food tour combines a walking food tour with a visit to street art.

Plan your winter break with my guides to the UK Christmas Markets and the Irish Christmas Markets.

Event Location

Wrapped up your Christmas visit? We’d love to hear about your experience. Share your story and tag photos with #UltimateChristmasMarkets on social media.

What to Expect

With over 100 chalets, the market has a wide selection of unique and traditional items, making it the perfect place to shop for holiday gifts or to treat yourself. This year, there will be additional vegetarian and vegan food choices. Make sure to visit and enjoy the lights, decorations, window displays, and street performances.

Food Specialties

A good portion of the food at the market stalls is supplied by the nearby St George’s Market, a beloved Belfast institution. Keep an eye out for your favourite vendors as you wander through the festival.

Mince pies: Small, sweet dried fruit pies.
Christmas pudding: The classic, dense pudding made with dried fruit and spices.
Bratwurst: Germany’s famous sausage is typically grilled and served in a bun with condiments.
Crepes: Both sweet and savoury are available.
Churros: Have the simple version coated in sugar or with a side of hot chocolate or caramel sauce.
Belgian waffles: Crispy, light waffles served with your choice of toppings.
Goulash: Hearty Hungarian stew with paprika.
Poffertjes: Bite-sized Dutch pancakes flavoured with butter and powdered sugar.
Paella: Often with seafood, but vegetarian options are available.
Gluhwein: Mulled wine from the Mosel Valley.

What to Buy

Pottery and ceramics: Find gifts that include bowls, vases and mugs.
Traditional decorations: Such as baubles, ornaments, lights and wreaths.
Unique jewellery: Locally made items crafted from a variety of materials, such as wood, glass and metal.
Local art and prints: From local artists featuring scenes from Belfast and Northern Ireland.
Handmade toys: You can find puzzles, figurines and games.
Fashion: Designers and makers from Northern Ireland.

Responsible Travel Tips

Shop mindfully by purchasing only what you need. Consider buying locally made products and gifts that support the local economy.
To get around the city, you can walk, cycle, or use public transport. Thanks to the increasing number of protected bike lanes, cycling is safe and convenient.
Stay in a sustainable hotel that uses renewable energy sources or supports local environmental initiatives.
Avoid using plastic or purchasing items made or packaged with plastic. Bring a reusable bag, water bottle, and food container.
Try to eat locally sourced organic food where possible, thereby supporting local farmers.
Limit your consumption of meat and dairy products, as they can have a significant environmental impact.
Explore more than just the main tourist areas. Belfast has many hidden gems and neighbourhoods waiting to be explored.
Support the arts and attend local events. Belfast boasts a vibrant arts scene, featuring numerous galleries, theatres, and music venues to enjoy.

Please comment below if you want to leave a review of the Xmas market.

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Recommendations are independently chosen based on personal travel experiences and extensive research. While we make every effort to provide accurate information, the dates and details listed here should not be relied upon as definitive. Please consult the official website before booking your trip or planning a visit.