An event outside City Hall, voices rising into the night and an entire city entering the festive season: Belfast is preparing for its big Christmas lights switch-on. On Saturday 14 November 2026, the ceremony will bring families and visitors together around the City Hall. To attend, however, you will need to have booked: tickets are being released today, 3 November, in two waves.
Belfast prepares for its first major Christmas event
A family evening outside City Hall
According to Visit Belfast, the programme will combine songs, circus and nods to end-of-year shows. The Shamrocks and Avenue Arts Academy will take part in this season-opening event, alongside Tumble Circus and others. It is a chance to discover a festive Northern Irish capital beyond its best-known attractions.
Free tickets, but booking is compulsory
One ticket for every family member
Free entry does not mean open access. The Belfast City Council states that everyone must have a ticket, including children in pushchairs. The standard allocation is five places per booking. Once you receive the email, open it and download the tickets: the confirmation alone is not enough, as entry is checked using the QR code.
The booking times and their French equivalents are listed in the practical information below. If the first allocation sells out, a second release is scheduled for the same day; this does not guarantee a place for every applicant.
Prepare for your evening without any unpleasant surprises
Check your entrance and plan for the weather
The ceremony takes place outdoors, with everyone standing. Wear suitable clothing and check the entrance assigned on your ticket rather than heading indiscriminately towards the front of City Hall. An accessible platform requires a separate booking. Before setting off, reread the council’s conditions and check for any transport changes.
To extend your stay, our guide to getting to central Belfast from the airport will help you organise your arrival. Then allow time to discover another side of the city, from Belfast Castle to walks around Belfast Lough.
