One week to go until the Belfast Continental Christmas Market opens
The set-up is currently underway 🍻
This year’s Continental Christmas Market in the grounds of Belfast City Hall is back, and the countdown is officially on to November 18th.
Around every corner you’ll discover a local artisan business or exciting pop-up shop, and if you’re lucky, something tasty to eat.
Set in the heart of the city, the market is the perfect spot for families, tourists, day-trippers and city shoppers, offering a unique and exciting festive experience.
Serving everything from a warm cup of hot mulled wine and hot chocolate, to hog roasts, dutch pancakes, sweetie treats and crêpes.
There's even an inflatable Snow Globe, twisting Helter Skelter and vintage carousel too.
When does the Belfast Christmas Market officially open?
The gates will swing open Saturday 18th November at 12 noon, it will close that day at 10pm (bars remain open until 11pm).
Later that day at 6.30pm-7.30pm Cool FM’s Pete, Paulo and Rebecca will bring that magic Christmas touch to the festivities on stage for the official Belfast Christmas Lights Switch On event at City Hall.
What are the Belfast Christmas Market opening times?
Monday – Wednesday 10am – 8pm
Thursday – Saturday 10am – 10pm
Sunday 12noon – 6pm
*Market closes at 6pm on Friday 22 December
Last year we put together a helpful list of the top 10 foodie favourites visitors should try at the Continental Market. We can't wait to see what new delights will be waiting for us all this year.
Take a look at last year's favourites 👇
Dutch Pancakes
Everyone knows the Dutch Pancakes stall is a market staple! If you haven't visited before, don't let the queue put you off, it moves fast and these little beauties are worth the wait! Light, fluffy and topped with an array of sweet treats, you can't visit the market without stopping by!
Loaded Waffles
Take a peek inside the Belgian waffle stand, perhaps not when you're hungry though! This year, they've introduced warm cookie dough, which can be topped off with extra chocolate and sugary delights! They look incredible.
Pick 'n' Mix Treats
Every kids fantasy...sweeties as far as the eyes can see! With a handy one-way system in place, the Pick 'n' Mix stall is a whirlwind of colour and sugar. Kids are going to love it!
Paella
When you first hear the word Paella, you might not necessarily think of Belfast Christmas Market, but just wait until you try this. Filled with flavour and Spanish charm, when you grab a bowl of the Paella, you'll be transported to sunnier and much warmer times!
Kraken Fish Bar
Located in the handy food court, Kraken is the perfect spot for fish lovers. Something that certainly caught our eye was the Spice Box, filled with Cod Goujons, Salt & Chilli Squid, Monkfish Scampi, chips and salad with a curry mayo - yes please!
Churros
They might not look too glamorous, and perhaps eating them is a struggle, especially with cold hands, but trust us, these are gold dust! No matter your topping, you won't be disappointed with a trip to the friendly French team at the Churro van.
Grilled Cheese Toasties & Dirty Fries
Sometimes all you need as you roam the grounds of the City Hall is something to nibble on and share. What could be better than fries topped with melted cheese and savoury fillings, or even a grilled cheese toastie! Grab a couple of forks and off you go.
Mac ‘n’ Cheese
If ever you were going to say 'why not, it's Christmas' then of course it has to be for a bowl full of carbs. Oh and cheese too! But this is Mac 'n' Cheese with a difference, just look at the list of yummy toppings. Can we have one with everything please!
S'mores
As you hold your cup of warm mulled wine in one hand, why not grab a marshmallow with your other, and toast it over a roaring fire pit for s'mores. Located close to the snow globe and helter skelter ride, kids are loving this interactive feast. Warning, it can get a little sticky!
Mulled Wine
Mulled wine is the most popular holiday drink at Christmas markets across Europe. You can grab a festive cup from various stalls across the market - if you're looking for something that little bit different, the stall in the food court offers additional flavours and syrups.
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