Belfast’s most magical and much-loved festive market returns this November when St George’s Market is transformed for the annual Christmas Twilight Market, launching the city’s Christmas celebrations in spectacular style over two sparkling evenings.
This year’s Twilight Market, taking place on Tuesday 24 and Wednesday 25 November, will have a distinctly international flavour to it when it opens its historic doors from 4pm to 10pm, as traders will be flying in from India to showcase arts, crafts, textiles and spices for the first time.
St George’s Christmas Twilight Market
With more than 150 traders bringing together the best of local produce, handmade gifts, gourmet street food, and artisan crafts, beneath twinkling lights, the Christmas Twilight Market promises to be a memorable start to Belfast’s Christmas celebrations. From mulled wine, seasonally themed food, unique stocking fillers and festive florals, visitors can enjoy a feast of seasonal flavours and discover something special for everyone on their Christmas list.
Families, friends and late-night shoppers will all find plenty to enjoy, with seasonal drinks served by McEnaney’s Bar throughout the event. The final hour each evening is reserved for adults only as they can continue to soak up the festive atmosphere, enjoy live music and savour artisan treats after the children have gone home.
Christine Cousins, Market Organiser and owner of Sonic Events, said: “The Christmas Twilight Market is one of the highlights of the year for both traders and visitors. As St George’s comes alive with the sights, sounds, and smells of Christmas, it’s a truly magical experience for all the family.
“I’m particularly excited that this year’s event will feature a first, with traders travelling from India to join with more than 150 incredible local traders. Together they will offer market goers an exciting mix of festive food and drink, unique gifts, crafts and entertainment for all ages.
“I would encourage everyone to come along and support our local and international traders as this market is the perfect opportunity to embrace something different and enjoy Belfast’s Christmas celebrations in style.
“We are also looking forward to welcoming four startup businesses funded by Belfast City Council, giving them a valuable platform to showcase and sell their creations at what promises to be a very vibrant and busy market.”
Helping to launch this year’s event, Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Róis-Máire Donnelly, said: “The Twilight Market provides an extra special opportunity for shoppers to browse our beautiful St George’s Market during the evening, pick up unique Christmas gifts and enjoy a night out with family and friends.
“This is an iconic destination in our city and it’s great to see so many local and international traders already signed up for what is always a festive highlight.
“Tugann an t-imeacht speisialta seo deis luachmhar do ghnólachtaí a bhfuil ag glacadh páirt inár dtionscnamh Test Trading lena dtáirgí a chur os comhair an phobail, custaiméirí a mhealladh isteach agus taithí luachmhar a fháil. Cuireann an t-imeacht seo go mór leis an stádas dearfach atá ag an mhargadh mar gheall ar an ardán tábhachtach a thugann sé do na gnólachtaí cumasacha atá ag teacht chun cinn sa chathair.
“This special event also offers a valuable chance for businesses taking part in our Test Trading initiative to showcase their products, engage with customers and gain valuable experience, further building on the market’s status as an important platform for the city’s emerging business talent.”
Visitors can look forward to an impressive variety of traders, with sweet treats and refreshments from The Little Popcorn Shop, Papas Minerals, Brownie Barn, CocoBros and Symphonia Spirits. Arts and crafts on offer will include work from Joel Smyth Goldsmith, Vinted USA and Rickydrewapiccy, who designed the magnificent market logo for Sonic Events.
For those seeking something more substantial to tempt their taste buds, hot food options will include Frankies Lasagneria, The Crepe Makers, Sizzle and Roll, El Toro and Simply Irresistible.
Speaking about the specialist traders travelling to the market from India, The Consulate General of India, said: “This is a wonderfully unique experience for specialist Indian traders and craftspeople to bring distinctive crafts and products of India’s regions to the Christmas Twilight Market for the first time.”
Representatives from chosen charities Dogs Trust and Ulster Wildlife Trust will be on hand to share more about their work and the difference their support makes.
With its unique mix of local talent, international influences, seasonal food and festive entertainment, the Christmas Twilight Market is the perfect place to shop local, discover independent businesses and soak up the festive season in the heart of Belfast.
Visitors are encouraged to wrap up warm, bring family and friends, and join the celebrations at St George’s Market on Tuesday 24 and Wednesday 25 November.
