Christmas and New Year

Christmas and New Year is a special time in Northern Ireland, so if you're planning a short break to make new memories or looking forward to spending time with friends and family, we're looking forward to hosting you here.

Our capital city Belfast becomes a magical place, with twinkling lights and cosy pubs to escape into as the nights turn cooler. Work up an appetite with a trip around Victoria Square shopping centre, before heading over to the famous Belfast Christmas Market at City Hall. Kick off the season of indulgence with a night of fine dining in one of our many Michelin starred restaurants, or cocktails at Bullitt to start a festive night out in the Cathedral Quarter.

Alternatively, make for the maiden city of Derry~Londonderry, and kick off your Christmas celebrations with a trip to the Walled City Markets (4/5th & 11/12th Dec), a stroll along the Peace Bridge and a night of merriment at the Walled City Brewery. Culture yourself at The Playhouse or Millenium Forum or book a last minute spot on a Bucket List experience like Far&Wild Boomboards or Seamus Heaney Homeplace.

With all this and more to see and do, it really is the time to Embrace the Festive Season in Northern Ireland.

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Festive Inspiration

Awaken your Giant Spirit

Your Giant Guide to Short Breaks

This guide provides useful information for planning a spring break in Northern Ireland, with events, offers and ideas for days out.
Rachel Ivie's festive weekend in Belfast

‘Tis the season to embrace the festive spirit! Belfast is the ultimate destination for a weekend away in the build up to the most magical time of the year. Last year Discover NI invited Dublin teacher and blogger, Rachel Ivie, to mark the festivities with a girl’s getaway to Belfast.
Cosy Christmas Stays

Dreaming of your next staycation? The season of wrapping up and staying snug is here and we have lined up a brilliant list of hotels and cosy lodges that you should check out, before checking in to them this winter. From short stays to spa experiences, there is something for everyone this Christmas…
Gift a Stay to Remember this Christmas

We can agree that it is beginning to look a lot like Christmas now, and we are very excited. So how about putting some thought into this year’s presents by getting them a voucher for a staycation in Northern Ireland? Not only will you be helping to support local, but vouchers are also a practical solution as it can easily be popped in the post.
Gift Card Offers

Treat someone you love this Christmas to the gift that lasts. Why not treat a loved one to a festive gift card from one of Northern Ireland’s many accommodation providers, visitor attractions and experiences? Check out our offers.
Ultimate Shopping Guide

Northern Ireland appreciates the joy that a good day’s shopping can bring. So, wherever you go, you’ll find top class shopping centres, wonderful local markets, boutique design stores and artisan craft shops. All perfect places to pick up something special as a gift to bring home – or a way to treat yourself.
Embrace the Causeway Coast and Glens this Winter

Discover NI invited Northern Ireland food and travel bloggers Dish You Were Here, Eating Ideas and Jackie’s Blog Spot on a trip to the Causeway Coast and Glens. Otherwise known as Marty, Lynne and Jackie, the group made their way from Belfast to find out what the area had to offer.
Explore our winter trails and more

Wrap up warm, pull on your wellies and take the little ones (and big ones!) on a walk around one of our trails.