Month: November 2025

Santa’s spectacular tour returns to drive Christmas cheer across the borough

By

The magic of Christmas is set to roll into town once again as ‘Santa on Tour’ returns to Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough promising a sleigh-full (or should we say bus- full) of sparkle, community spirit and festive fun for all ages!

Launching today, Monday 3 November, the much-anticipated annual extravaganza sees Santa, Mrs Claus and their merry band of elves hit the road in their dazzling red bus. From Friday 14 November, ‘Santa on Tour’ will bring festive sights, sounds and smiles to towns and villages across the borough, officially switching on Christmas lights and delivering a magical roadshow of cheer to every corner of ABC.

Expect an action-packed stage show featuring local schools, community groups, artists and professional acts, alongside a sprinkle of spectacular walkabout entertainment from stilt walkers, jugglers, acrobats, and dazzling performers who are sure to light up the night.

Little ones can get crafty in the festive arts and crafts zone, enjoy face painting and balloon modelling, and of course, visit Santa in his grotto or snuggle up for a heartwarming Christmas tale from Mrs Claus herself. But beware – the Grinch might just try to throw a spanner in Santa’s shiny red bus with some cheeky mischief!

Adding even more festive flavour this year, the Artisan Food & Craft Markets will pop up at the town switch ons, bringing a winter wonderland of local produce, handmade crafts and delicious treats. It’s the perfect opportunity to eat, shop and be merry while supporting talented local makers and producers.

Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Alderman Stephen Moutray, said: “It’s fantastic to see ‘Santa on Tour’ return for another year bringing families and friends together across our borough to celebrate the true spirit of Christmas. These events are all about community, enjoying great entertainment, supporting local traders, and creating special memories that last a lifetime. I’d encourage everyone to come along, join the fun, and make the most of everything our city, towns and villages have to offer this festive season.”

Yet, the festive fun doesn’t stop there! Armagh City will once again don its Georgian finery for the ever-enchanting Armagh Georgian Festival, running from Thursday 27 November to Sunday 30 November. Expect the impressive light show, living history, street performers and the irresistible charm of a bygone Christmas.

The much-loved ‘Relaxed Christmas Sessions’ will also return to Bleary Business and Community Centre from Friday 5 December offering children with autism and special educational needs the chance to meet Santa and Mrs Claus in a calm, magical and supportive environment. Free tickets will be available from Friday 21 November at santaontourabc.com.

Then, if you’re on the lookout for the perfect present that keeps on giving, why not wrap up local with a Shop ABC Gift Card? A brilliant way to support local businesses while spreading a little extra joy to friends and family this Christmas.

With so much to see, do and enjoy, ‘Santa on Tour’ promises to make this Christmas truly tree-mendous. So hop on board, follow the jingling bells, and join Santa as he brings his bus-load of festive cheer to towns and villages across Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon!

For full event details, visit santaontourabc.com and follow the Council’s social media pages.

Charities Inspire Northern Ireland To Give Back Ahead Of Belfast Careers And Volunteer Fair

By

With only days to go before The Winter Charity Careers & Volunteer Job Fair takes place at the Assembly Buildings Conference Centre in Belfast on Wednesday 5th November, organisations across Northern Ireland are celebrating the power of community and volunteering by encouraging people to get involved, give back and make a difference.

Among those leading the way are The Conservation Volunteers, Volunteer Now and Cats Protection, who will represent the charities and community groups helping to build a stronger, more connected Northern Ireland.

The Conservation Volunteers (TCV), a returning exhibitor, creates opportunities for people to care for their local environment while improving their own health and wellbeing. The charity runs conservation projects that bring communities together to enhance green spaces, wildlife habitats and public parks across Northern Ireland.

Ciara Diamond, Volunteer Recruitment and Engagement Officer at The Conservation Volunteers, said the event is an important opportunity to connect with the local community.

“The fair is a great opportunity for us to engage with the community around us here in Northern Ireland, to spread the word about what we do and how people can get involved. It’s always a fun and engaging afternoon out, and a chance to learn about the opportunities that exist right on your doorstep.”

Cats Protection, a new exhibitor, supports cats and kittens across Northern Ireland through rehoming, education and volunteer engagement. Run by a dedicated team of cat lovers, the charity works to improve the lives of cats, offer advice and raise awareness of responsible ownership.

Jonny Wilson, Community Fundraising Volunteer Team Leader at Cats Protection, said the fair is an opportunity to meet people who share their passion.

“We’d love to meet you and chat about how you could volunteer with us in fundraising and cat welfare. It’s a great chance to find out more about what we do and how you can help make a difference for cats across Northern Ireland.”

Volunteer Now, a new exhibitor, will also take part in the fair, highlighting the breadth of volunteering opportunities available across the country. The organisation plays a vital role in connecting people with volunteer placements, training opportunities and community projects, helping individuals find ways to use their time and skills to support others.

They will be joined by RSPB Northern Ireland and the Presbyterian Church in Ireland, both long-standing champions of community action and volunteering. Together, these organisations represent the many ways people across Northern Ireland are stepping up to create change, from environmental protection and animal welfare to faith-based outreach and neighbourhood support.

More than 25 exhibitors are confirmed for the event, covering causes across health, disability, youth work, community development, education and wellbeing. The fair offers jobseekers and volunteers a chance to meet directly with charities offering both paid and voluntary roles that have a lasting impact.

Chris Bunce, Co-founder of Charity Jobs NI, said this final fair of the year captures the heart of what the sector stands for.

“Community and volunteering are at the centre of what makes Northern Ireland special. Every charity taking part in this event shows the incredible commitment people here have to helping others. With more than 25 organisations involved, the fair is about celebrating that spirit and giving everyone the chance to find their place in making a difference.”

Free to attend and open to everyone, The Winter Charity Careers & Volunteer Job Fair will take place on Wednesday 5th November from 10am to 2pm at the Assembly Buildings Conference Centre, Belfast.

To book your free ticket to attend or find out more about how your organisation can exhibit and take part go to charityjobsni.com/charity-careers-fair

© Copyright What's On NI 2017. All Rights Reserved.