This Christmas take time to ‘See Ballycastle’ and explore what it has to offer.
Why not make a day of it and find quality crafts, unique gift ideas, speciality foods and big name brands from over 60 independent shops.
The friendly, personal service that Ballycastle is famous for is evident in its independent shops, cosy cafes and gastro pubs.
There are a number of events and family friendly entertainment in Ballycastle and the surrounding area right throughout December.
The Naturally North Coast and Glens Artisan Market makes a welcome return to the Marine Hotel on Sunday 27th November to kick start your Christmas shopping from 11am to 5pm offering a fantastic array of local art, craft and food produce.
The annual Ballycastle Pony Parade takes place on 3rd December. Now in its 5th year, the Parade is a fun, festive spectacle featuring horses and riders dressed as Santa Claus – will you be able to spot the REAL Santa? He’ll be giving out treats to all the children who pop along to say hello. There’ll be a charity collection on the day for Motor Neurone Disease Association Northern Ireland and Rett Syndrome Ireland.
Julienne Elliott, Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council’s Economic Development Officer for Town Management said: “Along with the pony parade, Saturday 3rd December is Small Business Saturday and Council are encouraging everyone to Shop Local this Christmas. Ballycastle has a lot to offer in this regard, and customers can be assured of friendly, local customer service which the town is famous for.”
Ballycastle Chamber of Commerce has organized a Shop Window Christmas Display Competition which will be judged on Christmas Eve.
Retailers are getting into the spirit by decorating their windows in a truly festive fashion so look out for all the different displays as you make your way through the town.
An ideal time to view the display will be on Saturday 17th December as a variety of street entertainment has been organised to take place from 12noon to 2pm including surprise characters Olaf, Minion and Penguin as well as balloon modelling and glitter tattoos to keep the little ones entertained.
For further details on Christmas events in the Ballycastle area and the rest of the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough pick up your free brochure from various outlets or visit www.causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk/christmas