A packed programme of more than 30 festive, family events, plus a choice of high street favourites, speciality shops and unique local craft fairs where you can purchase the perfect gift, are just a few of the reasons why Ards and North Down is the perfect place to ‘Make Someone’s Christmas’ in 2016.

Ards and North Down Borough Council officially launched its Christmas campaign with a seasonal online video that features two Christmas baubles – Beau and Belle – who accidentally become separated amidst the Christmas shopping frenzy.  Beau travels to the Christmas light switch on event in Newtownards to find Belle and be reunited in time for the festivities.

The video’s seasonal message – Make Someone’s Christmas – reminds everyone that the festive period, while often busy, is also a time to enjoy, a time to connect with family and friends and there is no better place to do that than in Ards and North Down.

The video can be viewed on the Council’s Facebook page, where you can also access information about upcoming events and promotions.  And the fun doesn’t end there.  Throughout the Christmas period there will be competitions, opportunities to participate in more videos and lots of other festive Facebook joviality.

Speaking at the launch, Mayor of Ards and North Down, Alderman Deborah Girvan, said:

“Ards and North Down is the best place to visit and shop this Christmas. The Council will be delivering a superb programme of over 30 events across the borough to help residents and visitors ‘Make Someone’s Christmas’.  This includes Christmas light switch ons, craft fayres, musical performances, Christmas movies and more.   Our Christmas baubles – Beau and Belle – may feature at some of these.  View our full events programme on-line.  We also believe we offer some of the best retail experiences in the towns across our Borough, so don’t miss out on the opportunity to enjoy the build up to Christmas in the shops and markets in Bangor, Comber, Donaghadee, Holywood and Newtownards.”

The first event of the season is the ever-popular Bangor Christmas switch on at the McKee Clock, Queen’s Parade, Bangor on Saturday 19 November (5.30pm).  A spectacular fireworks display will accompany the switch on.  Plus, a special Christmas market, providing a sneak peak of the festive gifts and goodies on offer in Bangor shops, will also run from 12noon – 7pm.

Find out more about all our events at visitardsandnorthdown.com.  For festive pictures, updates and promotions ‘like us’ on Facebook and follow us on Twitter @ANDborough.