Belfast says Yeo - ho - ho: How you can support local arts and businesses this Christmas

By Georgia McPoland

Wondering how you might spend your festive season in Belfast city? Do you want to spread some love to local businesses and the arts this Christmas? Look no further! Let’s go on a journey through some of the biggest festive events going on in the Capital this month.

Of course, Christmas would not be the same without a visit to the infamous Christmas markets. Whether it’s a tinder date or a night out with flat mates, there’s truly something for everyone in the audience. You can enjoy a festive flavoured pint in the beer tent or grab some dutch pancakes to fuel your walk around the gorgeous scenery of the city hall. The markets are open up until the 22nd of December, giving organised and last-minute shoppers alike the perfect opportunity to support some incredible Northern Irish local businesses.



If you want to see some of your favourite festive films on the big screen, be sure to check out Queen’s Film Theatre. Conveniently located just a four-minute walk from the McClay, QFT Christmas screenings are the perfect escape from assignment season. These screenings run from the 4th of December all the way up to Christmas Eve, giving students and families alike plenty of time to see all the classics ranging from "Elf” to “Home Alone”. With student tickets starting at £4.50, there’s no reason to miss these screenings!

If you’re looking for live performances this Christmas, be sure to grab a ticket to “The fairest panto in the land” at The Grand Opera House. The Pantomime is not only a great day out, but also a fabulous way to introduce children to the wonders of live performance, while ensuring there’s some laughs for the adults in the audience too. This year’s rendition of “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” is a hit for the whole family (or flat), having already sold a record- breaking 45,000 + tickets.

Whether you hit the markets or the Grand Opera House, we hope you guys have a very merry festive season.


Georgia McPoland is the Culture Editor at the Scoop.

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