Belfast Christmas Market 2023: What you need to know!

Last Updated - 14/11/2023 | 4 Minute Read

It's back, the Belfast Christmas Market is returning to City Hall for 2023! Just five minutes walk from Travelodge Belfast central, you will find a winter wonderland of festive fun. 

Details on the Belfast Christmas Market 2023

Opening times & dates for 2023

The festive celebration will return from November 18th to December 22nd. It will open at the following times. 

Days Opening Time Closing Time
Monday-Wednesday 10am 8pm
Thursday to Saturday 10am 10pm
Sunday 12pm 6pm

The Beer tent and other bars will stay open for one hour after closing time on Monday - Saturday. 

Location of the Belfast Christmas Market 

For the 11th year, the Belfast Market will return to Belfast City Hall, in Donegall square. City Hall is easily accessible by foot, public transport and by car. While there are plenty of car parks around, these may be very busy so plan ahead. 

Travelodge Belfast Central is located in Belfast City Centre and just 450 metres or roughly 6 minute walk from Belfast City Hall. 

The market stalls in Belfast

What to expect from the 2023 Belfast Christmas Markets

  • Food, glorious food

Dutch Pancakes, Belgian Waffles, and sweet treats can all be found in the festive stalls in the tasty treats section. 

Whereas traditional stalls will have some of your favourite savoury foods like sandwiches, bratwurst, fries and artisan butchery. 

For the lovers of unusual foods, there are continental treats on offer. There is an exotic selection of wild boar sausages to crocodile burgers and even a selection of ostrich to choose from the international traders, I'll leave that you to though. 

  • Family activities

The festive market is a brilliant place to enjoy with kids. With a vintage carousel amongst other fairground rides, there is no shortage of things to do with kids in Belfast market. 

Sip on a hot chocolate and stroll through this fabulous event and eye up some of the wonderful gifts with your family. 

Toast marshmellows over hot coals at the Belfast Christmas Market

  • Santa

What family visit to the markets could be complete without a visit to Santa's Grotto. Start the festive period right and let the children meet Santa Claus. The Grotto does not need to be pre-booked, just walk in on the day. 

  • Glühwein

You may not have heard the name Glühwein before, but I'm sure you know all about Mulled Wine. The Kochem vineyard is back with their winter warming comforting drink perfect for the cool nights at the market. 

Sample the Mulled wine as your browse the festive stalls

  • The Beer tent

If you're a fan of the continental drinks and treats, then a stein of paulaner will no doubt be in order! 

The popular beer tent will return to the Belfast Christmas Market 2023, it does get busy so be prepared to keep an eye on the best spot. 

  • Christmas lights switch-on

A lot of the Christmas lights around Belfast are turned on from Sunday the 19th of November. However some are after, and before. 

There are plenty of different festive illuminations to choose from. At the market there are tonnes of lights and decorations. If you're in Belfast for the weekend then check out the decorations at Victoria Square, Queen' Arcade and at the Titanic attraction. 

  • Make a weekend of it at Travelodge

The Travelodge is centrally located in Belfast. A five minute walk from the major attractions like Victoria Square, Queen's arcade and of course the Belfast City Christmas Market. 

Check out the rates for your stay and rest in one of our comfortable rooms, with a cosy duvet, tea & coffee and free Wi-Fi

Stay in one of our Double or Twin rooms at Travelodge Belfast Central, just 5 minutes from the Christmas Market.

The Wrap Up

The Belfast Christmas Market is a brilliant weekend city break for families or couples. The continental market has brilliant shopping experiences, artisan products and delightful gift ideas. 

There are plenty of things to do in Belfast Christmas Market for both kids and adults, with brilliant fairground rides for the little ones. While the festive event is also host to some brilliant market traders for the adults. 

Nevertheless, a hot Gluhwein and a few culinary delights are enough for anybody to enjoy on a city break to Belfast City. 

FAQs - Belfast Christmas Market 2023

When is the Belfast Christmas Market taking place in 2023?
The market will run from November 18th to December 22nd.

What are the opening hours of the Belfast Christmas Market?
- Monday - Wednesday: 10:00 - 20:00
- Thursday - Saturday: 10:00 - 22:00
- Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00

Where is the Belfast Christmas Market located?
The market is held at Belfast City Hall, in Donegall Square. The City Hall is easily accessible by foot, public transport, or car.

How far is Travelodge Belfast Central from Belfast Christmas Market?
Travelodge Belfast Central is approximately 450 meters or a 6-minute walk from Belfast City Hall.

Is there a Beer Tent at the Belfast Christmas Market 2023?
Yes, the popular Beer Tent will be back, serving continental drinks and treats. It is recommended to be prepared for it to get busy, so keep an eye out for the best spot.

When are the Christmas lights switched on in Belfast?
Many Christmas lights, including those at the market, are turned on from Sunday, November 19th. However, some may be switched on before or after this date.