Author: whatsonni

Discover NI’s Offers of the Week

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Culloden Estate and Spa, Cultra, County Down

 

As the days grow shorter, retreat to the warmth and comfort of the historic Culloden Estate. Enjoy an exclusive 15% discount and a complimentary upgrade to the next room category. Melt away tension in the spa, complemented by 10% off spa treatments and ESPA products. From £195 per room, available until 19th December 2025. Visit https://www.cullodenestateandspa.com/offers/ for more information.

 

 

Bushmills Townhouse, Bushmills, County Antrim

 

Nestled in the captivating town of Bushmills, a short distance from the iconic Giant’s Causeway, Bushmills Townhouse offers an exquisite blend of luxury suites and superb dining. Starting from £90pp, the offer includes complimentary bubbles on arrival, a three-course dinner and breakfast the next morning. Available now through to end of December. Visit  https://bushmillstownhouse.com/ for more information.

 

 

For more inspiration or to plan your next adventure in Northern Ireland, visit www.discovernorthernireland.com.

Offers are correct at the time of publication and are subject to availability and change without notice. Terms and Conditions apply to each offer and can be viewed on the individual provider’s websites. Tourism NI acts as a promoter of third-party offers and accepts no responsibility for any changes, withdrawals, or inaccuracies made by providers. 

10 Things to do in Northern Ireland

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Here are ten exciting things to do 10 – 16 November

 

  1. Belfast Christmas Market, 15 November – 22 December. With over 100 international and local traders, the festive village offers a delightful array of quality Christmas fayre, handcrafted goods, and bespoke artisan products. Set against the magnificent backdrop of Belfast City Hall, the market is an ideal destination, offering the perfect place to tick off your holiday shopping list.
  2. Belfast Punk Music Walking Tour, 15 November. Come explore the story of punk music in Belfast on this walking tour, with a specialist music guide who has loved punk music since the 1970s. Since bands like The Outcasts, Rudi, Stiff Little Fingers, Ruefrex and Victim erupted onto the scene in Belfast back in the late 1970s, Belfast punk has held a special place in music history, near and far.
  3. Christmas Craft Market at Flowerfield Arts Centre, Portstewart, County Londonderry, 15 November – 23 December. Now firmly established as the ‘must go to’ festive shopping event, the best contemporary craft market on the North Coast returns with over 35 independent makers and uniquely special gifts for all tastes and budgets. Featuring homeware, jewellery, textiles, clothing, artisan food and more, you’ll find the perfect present from a bespoke range of beautiful ceramics, glass, necklaces, artwork, candles, luxury skincare, throws, stationery, festive décor and beyond.
  4. Traditional Irish Breadmaking, Killinchy, County Down, 15 November. Join Tracey in her kitchen on the shores of Strangford Lough in County Down, just 30 minutes from Belfast. You’ll be welcomed into her home with the aroma of homemade fruit soda bannock as it comes out of the oven. You’ll enjoy this sweet treat with some award-winning Irish butter.
  5. Atlantic Sessions, various locations, Portrush & Portstewart, County Antrim and County Londonderry, 13 – 16 November. A high quality, musical feast, showcasing original music. From traditional to contemporary, electric to acoustic, Atlantic Sessions has emerged as a permanent feature on the cultural calendar creating an energetic, vibrant atmosphere in the pubs, hotels, coffee shops and town halls across Portrush and Portstewart.
  6. Northern Ireland Music Prize at Ulster Hall, Belfast, 12 November. The Northern Ireland Music Prize is an annual awards night curated by Oh Yeah to recognise and celebrate the incredible and diverse talent we create. With categories such as Album of the Year supported by PPL as well as Live Act of the Year, and the Oh Yeah Legend Award, the NI Music Prize is the local music scene’s biggest night.
  7. From Darkness to Light – Black & White Photography Exhibition at The Cathedral Church of Saint Patrick, Armagh, County Armagh, until 29 November. Now that we have reached that part of the year with fewer hours of daylight, St Patrick’s Church of Ireland Cathedral in Armagh is delighted to be hosting a black and white photographic exhibition with the title ‘From Darkness to Light’. As the Cathedral community celebrates the completion of its new lighting system which transforms the interior of the Cathedral and shines new light on its unique architectural details, the timing and theme of this exhibition could not be more appropriate.
  8. National Trust’s Florence Court, Florencecourt, County Fermanagh, visit website for open dates and times. Located around eight miles from Enniskillen, Florence Court is one of the most beautiful Georgian houses in Northern Ireland, nestled against the wild mountain backdrop of Benaughlin and the Cuilcagh Mountains. You can enjoy glorious walks around the grounds which include a walled garden, holiday cottage, sawmill and ice-house. In the gardens you will find the famous Florence Court Yew – reputedly the ‘parent’ of all Irish yew trees.
  9. OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory, Omagh, County Tyrone, visit website for open dates and times. Take a journey through time and space with a visitor experience that’s out of this world. Book your visit to Northern Ireland’s only International Dark Sky Park. Fully guided by an experienced tour guide, the centre will give visitors a unique opportunity to experience the night sky as it is rarely viewed.
  10. Festive Fair at Magheramorne Estate, Magheramorne, County Antrim, 11 and 12 November. As the holiday season approaches, the upcoming Festive Fair at Magheramorne Estate will bring together an incredible selection of local suppliers. The fair will be held in their charming and cosy drawing rooms and elegant ballroom, creating the perfect ambiance for a delightful Christmas experience.

 

For more information on what’s on, or to plan your next giant adventure in Northern Ireland, visit discovernorthernireland.com. Subject to availabilities with select dates.

Flowerfield Christmas Craft Market returns – bigger, brighter and bursting with creativity!

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Get ready to start off the festive season at Flowerfield Arts Centre as the much-loved Christmas Craft Market returns from Saturday 15th November 2025.

Join us from 11am – 4pm for the official opening, when Naturally North Coast and Glens Market will be there to add even more Christmas cheer!

This year’s market promises to be the most exciting yet. Following the largest number of applications to date, a line-up of 50 outstanding makers from right across Northern Ireland has been curated – a vibrant showcase of creativity, craftsmanship and festive inspiration.

Expect a wonderful mix of ceramics, jewellery, glass, woodcraft, homeware, clothing, scents, food and mixed giftware – with something to suit every taste and budget. From delicate handmade jewellery to beautiful pottery, cosy textiles, aromatic candles and delicious local produce, you’ll find thoughtful gifts that tell a story.

Many of our talented makers hail from the Causeway Coast and Glens area, but every purchase directly supports small creative businesses, helping to sustain Northern Ireland’s thriving craft community.

The Flowerfield Christmas Craft Market runs from 15th November to 23rd December, with late-night shopping on Wednesdays and Thursdays, giving you plenty of time to discover something special for everyone on your list.

Come for the bespoke handcrafted gifts, enjoy the festive atmosphere – and celebrate the very best of local creativity this Christmas at Flowerfield Arts Centre.

SIMPLY THE ‘BEAST’ SHOW AROUND AT ARMAGH’S MARKET PLACE THEATRE

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Be our guest this Christmas at The Market Place Theatre’s furry-tale pantomime spectacular, ‘Beauty and The Beast’. Prepare yourself for a tale as old as time but told in a way you won’t have seen the like of before!

Can Belle save the day before the last petal falls from the enchanted rose? Join our heroine as she tries to break the Wicked Fairy’s curse and escape the castle of the ‘monstrous’ Beast… but is he really as bad as he seems?

There’ll be talking teapots, singing candlesticks, dancing dogs and a bunch of wily wolves to deal with, but with your help, can Belle reverse the curse?

Beauty and The Beast will be sure to make you laugh, sing, shout and cheer as you fall in love with a host of hilarious (and hairy) characters. Get ready for magic, music and mayhem aplenty, all rolled up in one action-packed show that’s sure to be simply the beast!

‘Beauty & The Beast’ will run at Armagh’s Market Place Theatre from Saturday 29 November to Sunday 21 December, with a range of times to suit all busy schedules!

 

Prices range from £15 to £19. Tickets are flying out the door, so hurry to book yours now!

 

To book your tickets for the most exciting pantomime of the season, phone the Box Office now on 03300 561 025, or book online at www.visitarmagh.com/marketplacetheatre.. The house is sure to be packed to the rafters for this festive hit! There will be BSL signed, captioned and relaxed performances during the run. Please contact the Box Office for full details.

 

To keep up-to-date with the latest news at the Market Place Theatre, you can follow us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/marketplacearmagh) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/mptarmagh) where you will find all the latest information, special offers and video previews.

 

Discover NI’s Offers of the Week

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Ballygally Castle, Ballygally, County Antrim

 

Join Hastings Hotels in celebrating 400 years of history, hospitality and charm with a special overnight escape by the sea, starting from £150 per room per night. Enjoy the ultimate coastal experience with an overnight stay and a limited edition Ballygally Castle Signature Candle for you to take home as a memento of your stay. The next morning, wake and indulge in a freshly cooked full Irish breakfast as the perfect send off before you go. Offer is available until 30th November 2025. Visit https://www.ballygallycastlehotel.com/offers/ for more information.

 

 

Bishop’s Gate Hotel, Derry~Londonderry

 

Embrace the festive season and indulge in a luxury shopping break in the heart of the Walled City with Bishop’s Gate Hotel’s festive shopping package. Starting from £199 per night, you can book now and pay later with an offer that includes overnight stay with cooked to order breakfast, three-course dinner in The Gown Restaurant, a glass of prosecco on arrival and 10% off all gift purchases at Walled City Crafters. Offer is available Sun-Fri in November and December. Visit https://www.bishopsgatehotelderry.com/ for more information.

 

 

For more inspiration or to plan your next adventure in Northern Ireland, visit www.discovernorthernireland.com.

Offers are correct at the time of publication and are subject to availability and change without notice. Terms and Conditions apply to each offer and can be viewed on the individual provider’s websites. Tourism NI acts as a promoter of third-party offers and accepts no responsibility for any changes, withdrawals, or inaccuracies made by providers. 

10 Things to do in Northern Ireland

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Here are ten exciting things to do 3 – 9 November

 

 

  1. Sound of Belfast Festival at Oh Yeah Music Centre, Belfast, 6 – 16 November. The festival is dedicated to showcasing Belfast’s musical talents and its status as a UNESCO City of Music. Spanning gospel to garage rock, electronic to rap, the festival celebrates our world class music community through collaboration, partnerships and specially curated events across the city.
  2. The Echlinville Distillery Tour and Tipple, Kircubbin, County Down, 8 November. The Echlinville Distillery Tour and Tipple offers a unique insight into the workings of the family-run farm distillery. View their beautiful copper stills and enjoy the earthy aromas of their whiskey maturation warehouse.
  3. Wildlife Walk at Ulster Folk Museum, Holywood, County Down, 7 November. Take a walk around the nature-rich grounds of the Ulster Folk Museum and talk to CEDaR (Centre for Environmental Data and Recording) staff as you learn how to identify and record plants and animals. This is a beginner’s guide to biological recording.
  4. The Derry Girls Experience at Tower Museum, Derry~Londonderry, visit website for open dates and times. Visit the home of Derry Girls and discover where it all began. See original memorabilia from the hit show, like Erin’s diary, Aunt Sarah’s famous pyjamas and Ma Mary’s Woolworths sweater, not to mention the infamous Spice Girls costumes. Step into the set of the Quinn’s household and feel like one of the family.
  5. Leid AND Lairn: A Celebration of Ulster-Scots Language and Heritage at the Ards Arts Centre, Newtownards, County Down, until 25 November. This October and November, Ards and North Down will once again celebrate the richness of Ulster-Scots language, culture and history with the Leid AND Lairn festival. Organised by Ards and North Down Borough Council, the diverse programme invites audiences to explore the tradition through music, storytelling, walks, a talk and exhibition.
  6. Curator Tour: Ulster Emigration and Indigenous Peoples at Ulster American Folk Park, Omagh, County Tyrone, 9 November. Join Liam Corry, Curator of Emigration, for a tour of the Ulster American Folk Park exploring the impact of emigration to North America – not only through the eyes of those who left, but also those who were already there.
  7. Jen Farrar: A Journey into the Amazing Mini Jungle Around us at Sir Hans Sloane Centre, Killyleagh, County Down, 4 November. Jen will define Biodiversity and the importance of Bioabundance. Reframing “weeds and bugs” & exploring the interconnectedness of the flora and fauna around us. This is part of a Biodiversity Series of events thanks to funding from Newry, Mourne and Down District Council.
  8. Martel’s Candlelight Tour at Marble Arch Caves, Florencecourt, County Fermanagh, 9 November. Experience the thrill of this historic exploration first-hand as you accompany Martel in an authentic re-enactment of his groundbreaking discovery of the show cave, as it was 130 years ago. With the electric lights switched off, you’ll journey underground through the cave’s natural darkness, guided solely by candlelight and lanterns.
  9. Photography Masterclass at The Market Place Theatre and Arts Centre, Armagh, County Armagh, 8 November. Join internationally acclaimed photographer James Hughes for an exclusive masterclass exploring the art and craft of photography through the lens of his celebrated career. With over 30 years of experience spanning social documentary, commercial, and fine art photography, James will share the techniques that have defined his distinctive visual style.
  10. Halloween Slemish Market Supper Club, Ballymena, County Antrim, 8 November. Slemish Market Supper Club invites you to their Halloween Feast in the hauntingly beautiful Secret Garden Café at the Ecos Centre, Ballymena. Chef Rob “Scarecrow” Curley will conjure a 6-course menu of devilishly delicious dishes, crafted from regenerative produce from Slemish Market Garden and Co. Antrim’s finest suppliers. Expect eerie flavours, seasonal surprises, and a celebration of ancient Samhain traditions and BYO.

 

For more information on what’s on, or to plan your next giant adventure in Northern Ireland, visit discovernorthernireland.com. Subject to availabilities with select dates.

Northern Ireland’s Most Magical Christmas Event Returns

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Presented by Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council, the much-loved Enchanted Winter Garden will return to Antrim Castle Gardens from Friday 28 November to Tuesday 30 December 2025, promising to be its most dazzling year yet.

In response to the event’s growing popularity, Enchanted Winter Garden will run for an additional four nights, giving families the opportunity to experience the magic through the festive season and up to just before New Year’s Eve.

This year’s event introduces a host of exciting new features designed to elevate the experience for visitors of all ages. Among the highlights is the debut of the Enchanted Tree Choir, a new attraction that will see the trees of the forest brought to life.

The funfair has also been expanded, offering new, more thrilling rides to entertain both the little and big kids. Visitors can also look forward to a series of brand-new light installations, including a striking light show.

Returning favourites will also make a welcome appearance, including the Festive Food Fayre, serving up delicious seasonal treats and of course Santa’s Grotto, where families can meet the man himself until 23 December.

Post Christmas, when Santa heads home for a well-earned rest, his Grotto will be taken over by The Grinch, who’ll be up to no good as he brings his own mischievous twist to attendees from 27 – 30 December.

The Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Leah Kirkpatrick said, “As an Antrim woman and a mum of two, the Enchanted Winter Garden holds a very special place in my heart. It’s a magical experience for families and a chance to make lasting memories together right here in our beautiful Antrim Castle Gardens.”

The event will also continue its commitment to accessibility, with Inclusive Evenings on 4 and 10 December, offering reduced lighting, sound levels and a relaxed environment for visitors with additional needs. These evenings are supported by The Junction Retail and Leisure Park.

Tickets are on sale now at www.enchantedwintergarden.com. Book early to secure your preferred date and join the fun at Antrim Castle Gardens.

BELFAST CHRISTMAS MARKET SET TO COME ALIVE WITH FESTIVE FLAVOUR, LOCAL TALENT AND SUSTAINABLE SPIRIT

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With the festive season almost upon us, Market Place, stars of Channel Four’s ‘Secrets of the Christmas Market’ and the UK’s leading specialist market operators, are preparing the tinsel and baubles for another year of food, drink and craft celebrations.

The Belfast Christmas Market will officially open its gates at 12 noon on Saturday 15 November, running until 22 December in the stunning grounds of Belfast City Hall. 

Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Tracy Kelly, said:

“Belfast Christmas Market is an unmissable part of our city centre festive experience, offering magical opportunities to spend time and make memories with family and friends. It’s such a magnet for visitors, generating important income and showcasing local emerging and established entrepreneurs alongside international traders. I can’t wait to see all the happy faces, hear the buzz and enjoy the treats on offer!”

This year, visitors will be spoilt for choice with a huge variety of authentic goodies including crêpes from France, Dutch pancakes, Belgian chocolates, an exotic selection of ostrich, wild boar and crocodile burgers, giant bratwurst from the iconic Schwenkgrille, Spanish paella and nougat from Italy. Visitors can take a culinary trip around the world before relaxing in one of the bars, serving international drinks until late into the evening.

With free entry for all, the market offers a vibrant shopping experience for those seeking unique and meaningful gifts. Visitors can explore an extensive selection of artisan products, from ornate Christmas decorations, handcrafted jewellery and original paintings to cosy hats and scarves—perfect for ticking off that all-important shopping list.

Allan Hartwell, Managing Director of Market Place, said:

“The Belfast Christmas Market is more than just a festive attraction, it’s a celebration of culture and community. Each year, our goal is to create an experience that brings people together, champions local businesses, and proudly showcases Belfast on an international stage. Welcoming over one million visitors annually and generating more than £60 million in economic impact, the market plays a vital role in the city’s seasonal economy.

Sustainability remains a cornerstone of our operations and we continue to invest in environmental initiatives which have led to an 85% reduction in non-biodegradable packaging. We’re committed not only to delivering a magical Christmas experience, but to doing so responsibly and with purpose.”

No Christmas is complete without the laughter of excited children, and families will find plenty to delight them at this year’s market. Returning to the festive village are the traditional carousel and the vintage Helter Skelter, offering panoramic views of the market and a thrilling descent for those brave enough to take the slide. Although Santa Claus is taking a well-deserved break from his grotto this year, he won’t be far! Keep your eyes peeled for the big man in red as he makes his weekly stroll through the market, spreading cheer, sharing sweet treats, and rewarding those on the nice list. Capture magical moments inside the giant snow globe or gather around the fire to toast delicious marshmallows – creating cherished memories to last well beyond the season.

In a continued effort to support young and emerging businesses, Market Place has partnered with the National Market Traders Federation (NMTF) to donate two chalets to young entrepreneurs, allowing them to trade free of charge and showcase their products to thousands of visitors. The NMTF’s Northern Ireland regional winners of the Young Traders Market, Mini Sticher and The Candle Bottle Bank, will also have their own dedicated chalet, offering sustainable handmade clothing for little ones and a range of candles and soy wax melts, inspired by the beautiful Causeway Coast.

Visitors can stay up to date with market news, entertainment schedules and weather by following Belfast Continental Christmas Market on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Media partner Q Radio will be on-site with a bespoke DJ booth in the food court, playing festive music, engaging with visitors and offering spot prizes. Travel partner Dublin Express will also be offering convenient transport options and exclusive giveaways throughout the season.

Belfast Christmas Market will open in the gardens of Belfast City Hall at 12noon on Saturday 15 November and run until 6pm on Monday 22 December.

Opening hours are:

Monday – Wednesday 10am – 8pm

Thursday – Saturday 10am – 10pm

Sunday 12noon – 6pm

Ards Arts Centre Opens New Solo Exhibitions by Patrick Hickey and Bernie McAdam

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Ards Arts Centre in Newtownards is pleased to welcome two new exhibitions to its Georgian and Sunburst Galleries: A Longing for a Feeling I Cannot Remember a solo exhibition by Patrick Hickey, and I heard the footfall of the flower spring.., a solo exhibition by Bernie McAdam.

In A Longing for a Feeling I Cannot Remember, Patrick Hickey presents a new series of oil paintings and works on paper exploring queerness, masculinity, and identity through the depiction of the nude male figure in otherworldly landscapes.

Inspired by Irish mythology and the mythical island of Hy Brasil, Hickey reimagines a place of safety and openness for queer identities. Viewers will encounter stoic fishermen, dreamlike terrain, and abstract seascapes that reference mythological heroes like Cu Chulainn and Lugh. The exhibition opens in the Georgian Gallery on Thursday 13 November.

Bernie McAdam’s exhibition, I heard the footfall of the flower spring.. reflects an engagement with Greek mythology through the lens of personal trauma and loss, exploring how ancient narratives resonate with contemporary emotional landscapes.

Looking through the prism of these Greek sagas and characters, a vista is opened that explores the misrepresentations of women in particular who have been maligned and vilified by blinkered classicists with a patriarchal bias throughout the ages. Themes of injustice and betrayal emerge but values of kindness and humour also prevail. Bernie’s work

encompasses oil painting, cyanotype print, mixed-media drawing and writing. This exhibition opened in the Sunburst Gallery on Friday 31 October.

Both exhibitions will continue until Wednesday 3 December. Admission is free.

 

All are welcome to attend a Preview Event in Ards Arts Centre on Thursday 13 November at 7pm. As part of her exhibition, Bernie McAdam will give an informal Artist Talk on her current research and influences at Arts Centre on Thursday 13 November at 6.30pm. The talk is free to attend but pre-registration is required. For more information visit; www.andculture.org.uk

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

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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.

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