Global Major Cities Guide

Annual cultural events, music festivals, and other seasonal celebrations that bring the Belfast community together.

Description: Held annually in the grounds of Belfast City Hall, the Belfast Christmas Market is a festive shopping and entertainment event. It features over 100 stalls offering unique gifts, crafts, and food from around the world. Expect mulled wine, bratwurst, Belgian chocolates, and local Irish crafts.
Location: Belfast City Hall, Donegall Square.
Dates: Mid-November to late December.
Costs: Free entry; food, drinks, and goods are individually priced.
Ticketing: No tickets required for entry.
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible; accessible toilets available.
Local Tips:
- Visit during weekdays or early mornings to avoid crowds.
- Bring cash, as some vendors may not accept card payments.
- Try the local delicacies like Irish stew or soda bread from the food stalls.

Description: This annual festival celebrates the arts with a mix of theatre, dance, music, visual arts, and literature. It often includes performances and exhibitions in shopping districts and entertainment venues across the city.
Location: Various venues, including The MAC (Metropolitan Arts Centre), Lyric Theatre, and Ulster Hall.
Dates: October to November.
Costs: Ticket prices vary depending on the event, ranging from free to £30+.
Ticketing: Tickets can be purchased online via the festival’s official website or at the venue box offices.
Accessibility: Most venues are wheelchair accessible; check individual event details for specific accommodations.
Local Tips:
- Book tickets early for popular performances.
- Combine your visit with a shopping trip to nearby Victoria Square or CastleCourt Shopping Centre.

Description: St. George’s Market is a historic indoor market that hosts themed events throughout the year, including craft fairs, food festivals, and live music performances. It’s a great spot for shopping for local produce, handmade goods, and artisan products.
Location: St. George’s Market, 12-20 East Bridge Street.
Dates: Open every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday; special events are held periodically.
Costs: Free entry; items are individually priced.
Ticketing: No tickets required for general market days; special events may require advance booking.
Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible.
Local Tips:
- Arrive early for the best selection of goods.
- Don’t miss the live music performances on weekends.
- Engage with local vendors to learn more about their crafts and products.

Description: This eclectic festival combines music, comedy, theatre, and visual arts, often hosted in the trendy Cathedral Quarter. Many events take place in pubs, galleries, and outdoor spaces, blending entertainment with the area’s vibrant nightlife.
Location: Cathedral Quarter, Belfast.
Dates: Late April to early May.
Costs: Ticket prices vary; some events are free.
Ticketing: Tickets can be purchased online or at the festival box office.
Accessibility: Many venues are accessible, but check individual event details.
Local Tips:
- Explore the area’s street art and stop by local pubs like The Duke of York or The Dirty Onion for a drink.
- Look out for free pop-up performances in public spaces.

Description: A must-attend event for fashion enthusiasts, Belfast Fashion Week showcases local and international designers. It includes runway shows, styling workshops, and pop-up shops.
Location: Various venues, including the Europa Hotel and Victoria Square.
Dates: March and October (Spring/Summer and Autumn/Winter editions).
Costs: Tickets range from £10 to £50, depending on the event.
Ticketing: Tickets can be purchased online via the official Belfast Fashion Week website.
Accessibility: Most venues are wheelchair accessible.
Local Tips:
- Dress to impress, as the event attracts a stylish crowd.
- Take advantage of the pop-up shops to purchase unique fashion pieces.

Description: A seasonal evening market held at St. George’s Market, featuring food, drink, crafts, and live entertainment. It’s a lively event perfect for socializing and sampling local and international cuisine.
Location: St. George’s Market, 12-20 East Bridge Street.
Dates: Typically held in spring and autumn.
Costs: Free entry; food and drinks are individually priced.
Ticketing: No tickets required.
Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible.
Local Tips:
- Arrive early to secure a table.
- Try the locally brewed craft beers and ciders.

Description: This festival celebrates cinema with screenings of local and international films, often held in unique venues like the Belfast Barge or Queen’s Film Theatre. It also includes workshops and Q&A sessions with filmmakers.
Location: Various venues across Belfast.
Dates: November.
Costs: Tickets range from £5 to £15 per screening.
Ticketing: Tickets can be purchased online via the festival’s website or at participating venues.
Accessibility: Most venues are accessible; check individual event details.
Local Tips:
- Look out for screenings in unconventional locations for a unique experience.
- Combine your visit with a meal at a nearby restaurant, such as Deanes or Mourne Seafood Bar.

Description: A one-night celebration of arts, culture, and community, featuring free performances, workshops, and exhibitions across the city. The event transforms Belfast into a hub of creativity and entertainment.
Location: Various locations, primarily in the Cathedral Quarter.
Dates: September.
Costs: Free.
Ticketing: No tickets required.
Accessibility: Most events are accessible; check individual event details.
Local Tips:
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll likely be walking between venues.
- Arrive early to secure a good spot for popular performances.

Description: Northern Ireland’s largest celebration of cultural diversity, the Belfast Mela features music, dance, food, and crafts from around the world. It’s a family-friendly event with activities for all ages.
Location: Botanic Gardens, Belfast.
Dates: Late August.
Costs: Tickets typically cost £5 to £10.
Ticketing: Tickets can be purchased online or at the entrance.
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible; accessible toilets available.
Local Tips:
- Bring a picnic blanket to enjoy the performances comfortably.
- Sample the international cuisine on offer.

Weather: Belfast’s weather can be unpredictable, so bring a waterproof jacket or umbrella, especially for outdoor events.
Transport: Use public transport or walk to events in the city center, as parking can be limited.
Currency: Northern Ireland uses the British Pound (£). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it’s good to carry some cash for smaller vendors.
Local Customs: Belfast locals are friendly and welcoming. Don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations or directions.

With this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy the shopping and entertainment festivals and events that Belfast has to offer!

Belfast