The Belfast Christmas Market is set to return after a two-year absence marking its 16th year outside City Hall.
The long-awaited r eturn of the market comes after it was forced to cancel its event in 2020 due to the pandemic.
Ahead of its return, organisers have shared with Belfast Live some detail about what to expect this year.
Here's everything you need to know:
When will the Market return to Belfast?
The Belfast Christmas Market 2021 opens at noon on November 20 and runs until 6pm December 23.
What are the opening hours?
Mon: Wed 10am - 8pm
Thurs: Sat 10am – 10pm
Sun: noon – 6pm
What kind of traders and stalls can we expect to see this year?
There are more than 25 different nationalities represented at the Christmas market, from as far away as South Africa. Closer to home there will be plenty of local businesses represented at the market, with 35% of traders from Northern Ireland.
Old favourites such as the vintage Dutch Pofitjes stall which serves up bitesize Dutch pancakes will return this year.
There will also be a new sushi bar and a stall from Naples which will be doing handcrafted chocolate.
Additionally, the Belfast Christmas Market are currently running their Pitch Perfect competition which is offering a chalet at the Market throughout November and December free of charge for a worthy business. Applications can be submitted by email to info@mpel.co.uk by 26 October 2021
Will the beer tents return?
Managing director Allan Hartwell confirmed with us: "Both beer tents will be coming back. We've worked with the council on this and we will be fully compliant with Covid guidelines at the time."
What will the layout look like?
In order to adapt to Covid safety guidelines, there will be a safe queuing area on the Donegall Sq East Side of the Market. There will also be additional seating in the food court area, as well as additional chalets in the centre of the market adding to the alpine Christmas feel. The Market organisers have said that congestion points will be reduced.
What else can visitors expect?
Aiming to be a more inclusive market, the Belfast Christmas Market organised will continue using the JAM card and app – a tool created by the NOW Group that lets people with a learning difficulty, autism or communication barrier tell others they need 'Just a Minute'. The Market has also introduced a ‘quite room’, a place for those who may need a little time out from the hustle and bustle.
To download an application for the 'Pitch Perfect competition, visit www.marketplaceeurope.co.uk/news
Applications must be submitted by email to info@mpel.co.uk by 26 October 2021
