The 10 Best things to do in Belfast this December.
Northern Ireland’s capital, Belfast, comes alive this December with a star-studded program of events, concerts, performances and experiences.
With holiday vibes in full swing, the program of “what’s on” in Belfast becomes more electric than ever. Check out our top 10 round up of things to do in Belfast this December.
10. Santa at Sea Cruise
A fun-filled day for the whole family awaits aboard the Santa at Sea cruise this December in Belfast.
This full-day extravaganza will surely be one to remember as the boat departs at 11.30am only to return at 5.45pm.
Santa will be aboard, too, and have a present for every single child. There will be games, a disco, karaoke and activities to keep families with children of all ages busy from start to finish.
When: Running various Saturdays and Sundays during December 2018
Where: Stena Line, Belfast Port, Belfast, Northern Ireland
How Much: £14 – £27
9. Def Leppard
The much-anticipated concert of December is finally here: Def Leppard at the SSE Arena in Belfast.
For hard-core rock and roll lovers, this will be a dream as the iconic band perform their landmark album ‘Hysteria’ alongside their many, many other classic hits.
When: Sunday 2 December 2018 @ 6.30pm
Where: SSE Arena, Belfast, Northern Ireland
How Much: £55.50 – £65.50
8. Gandeys: Greatest Snowman Circus
Prepare to be blown away as you get lost in the magic of the circus this December. This all-star troupe have only the best performers from Ukraine, Mexico and Europe and the show promises to be a non-stop, action-packed, gravity-defying phenomenon.
There are two shows per day until 21 December but remember to book in advance, this is a pretty hot ticket!
When: Until 21 December 2018 @ 5pm & 7pm
Where: Theatre Big Top Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland
How Much: £7 – £40
7. Festive Blues Afternoon Rademon Estate
Feel like an indulgent day away from the kids? Look no further than this one-day gin and blue fest in Rademon Estate in County Down, only 30 minutes drive from Belfast city.
Featuring live blues musicians to keep spirits merry and gin by Shortcross Gin with an open bar, Christmas-inspired cocktails and lots of mingling, this is bound to be a brilliant day out up North.
When: Sunday 2 December 2018 @ 1.30pm
Where: Rademon Estate Distillery, Church Road, Crossgar, Downpatrick, Down, Northern Ireland
How Much: £25
6. The Elves and the Shoemaker
This December, look no further for a festive experience than The Elves and the Shoemaker live at Belfast’s MAC.
This laugh out loud family-friendly theatre experience is set around the festive season and offers guests an enchanting fairytale about the old cobbler and his magical Christmas helpers.
When: Throughout December 2018 @ various times
Where: MAC, Belfast, Northern Ireland
How Much: £12.50 – £25
5. Christmas at the Castle
Prepare for a festive experience to rival all others: this is Christmas at the Castle.
Running throughout December, this jolly holiday experience offers live music, seasonal treats and beverages, live music, performers, carolers and family workshops – and all in the atmospheric surroundings of Hillsborough Castle & Gardens.
Expect candlelight and costumes, mistletoe and more! This immersive holiday experience is truly not to be missed.
When: Everyday until 23 December 2018 @ 9.30am – 4pm
Where: Hillsborough Castle, The Square, Hillsborough, Belfast, Northern Ireland
How Much: £5.10 – 8
4. Snow Patrol
One of the hottest gigs in Belfast this December has got to be Snow Patrol live at Belfast’s world-class SSE Arena.
Performing their much anticipated new album Wildness – the first in seven years – it is safe to say this will be a show to remember.
When: Friday 7 December & Saturday 8 December 2018 @ 6.30pm
Where: SSE Arena, Belfast, Northern Ireland
How Much: £60 – £70
3. The Snowman Family Concert
When it comes to Christmas activities for the whole family this December, The Snowman Family Concert has got to be at the top of the totem pole.
This event will offer guests a magical opportunity to experience the much-loved film alongside the live Ulster Orchestra at Belfast Waterfront.
When: Saturday 1 December 2018 @ 2pm & 4.30pm
Where: Belfast Waterfront, Belfast, Northern Ireland
How Much: £11.50 – £49
2. Kylie – Golden Tour
There are few bigger names to have graced the stage in Belfast this year than Kylie Minogue. This is bound to be one of the most dynamic, show-stopping performances of the year, and sure to sell out.
With a career spanning decades and too many awards to count, she is a true pop icon and sure to put on a spectacular performance!
When: Wednesday 5 December 2018 @ 8pm
Where: SSE Arena, Belfast, Northern Ireland
How Much: £55.50 – £100.50
1. Belfast Christmas Market
No December would be complete without a visit to the Christmas market. Belfast has one of the best going too, and with free entry and a variety of live music, performers, choir singers, artisanal producers and international and national stallholders, this is sure to be a highlight of the season.
Where: Everyday until 22 December 2018
When: Belfast City Hall, Belfast, Northern Ireland
How Much: Free
