Belfast Christmas Continental Market

If sweating in overcrowded shopping centres, lugging bags, tripping over small children and fighting over the last gift boxed panettone sounds like one Christmas nightmare too many consider taking a shopping trip with a difference. Christmas markets are becoming more and more popular all over the UK, inspired by those in Germany and Eastern Europe.

Cities throughout the UK are inviting traders from all over the continent to sell their wares, from tasty treats to beautiful arts and crafts and unusual toys. The markets are an opportunity to pick up gifts with a difference and get in to the Christmas spirit with an evening time trip, wrapped up in winter woollies and trying before you buy.

Once again in Belfast, the front lawns of City Hall will be divided into a number of villages including German, Irish and European. Each village will have its own themed entertainment as well as gifts, crafts and food.

There will be plenty to tempt even the most discerning taste buds. This includes food from Holland, Spain, France and Germany. If it’s liquid refreshment you’re after then why not take a glass of warming Gluwein or sample one of the liquor coffees. Alternatively, just sit and relax in Lavery’s Marquee, or sample the great German and continental beers from the Franzisskaaner German Bar.

A special section will showcase some of Northern Ireland’s best food products. These include Country Harvest’s delicatessen, Suki Teas, Archana Indian Cuisine, the Rocket and Relish gourmet burger bar and many more.

There is a very special addition to this years attractions – a visit from the main man himself, who will take up residence in a specially-designed Santa`s Grotto, hidden away in a magical forest, where only children can reach him!

So why not come along and do some shopping under the Christmas lights.

Belfast Christmas Continental Market
19 November - 20 December 2008

City Hall, BT1 5GS

For more information: www.belfastcity.gov.uk