TOTALLY TOURISTS TRAVEL FEATURES
ONTOUR NI WHO’S TOURING
THE FASHION FILES WHAT’S IN STYLE
CRUISE NEWS
BELFAST 1888 STORIES FROM THE PAST
FOODIE PAGES
BELFASTTIMES
And just like that it’s the end of 2025 and that darkest of months brightened by the twinkling of lights on the streets and in our homes. It’s a time to think about locking in your goals for the winter season and thinking ahead for your 2026.
December is also a month for the fun of pantomime and Christmas shows; as always there are a lot of them happening Check out our listings for some shows to get in your diary and things to do this month.
Our fashion pages with the inspiring Nuala Meenehan sparkle with glamour and style, our Foodie Features with @keevaeats will leave you wanting more and a travel update from @everythingwithangela will inspire your staycation plans.
Have a super sparkly month and remember to focus on your own wellness if you can
Jeff
DECEMBER
WHAT’S ON IN DECEMBER
Belfast Christmas Market at the City Hall open until 22 December.
Late Night Art Belfast 4 December 6-10pm
Christmas Weekends at the Ulster Folk Museum. Cottages and exhibit buildings will be decorated for the season, with lights, wreaths and cosy fires
Tumble Circus is back on Writers' Square, Belfast. Running from Friday 12th December to Sunday 4th January!
NI Opera Christmas Extravaganza at The Harrison. An afternoon of festive magic with NI Opera's Jenny Bourke and Aaron O'Hare. 14 December.
MORE THAN BELFAST
Royal Hillsborough Christmas Market takes place in the magical setting of The Dark Walk at Hillsborough Fort in the heart of the historic village. 12 & 13 December
WINTER THEATRE
THE ADVENTURES OF PINOCCHIO
SAT 29 NOV - SUN 11 JAN
The Adventures of Pinocchio brings you all the hallmark features of a traditional Grand Opera House panto with thrilling song-and-dance, beautiful costumes, dazzling staging and effects and laugh-out-loud comedy.
DECK THE HOLS
COMING IN JANUARY 2026 HERE AND NOW
TUE 27 JAN - SAT 31 JAN 2026
Get your party on with HERE AND NOW, the hilarious, brand-new musical based on the songs of multi-million-selling pop phenomenon, Steps. Hailed as the “biggest jukebox hit since MAMMA MIA!” (The Sun), don’t miss this feel-good celebration of love and friendship as it tours the UK & Ireland following a record-breaking world premiere.
THU 4 DEC - WED 31 DEC
The Grand Opera House Studio Christmas show returns with an utterly hilarious and unmissable festive night out with Caroline Curran and pals.
WINTER THEA
LYRIC THEATRE THE MAC
A CHRISTMAS CAROL
THE LYRIC THEATRE
28 NOV 2025 - 10 JAN 2026
After enchanting audiences and earning rave reviews in 2024, this joyously reimagined version of Charles Dickens’ Christmas classic, brought to life by award-winning playwright Marie Jones, returns to the Lyric Theatre
A Christmas Carol brings Scrooge’s journey to life with music, wit, and wonder
PIGEON & PLUM'S VAUDEVILLE CIRCUS
THE LYRIC THEATRE
10 DEC - 21 DEC 2025
Belfast’s very own punk rock Victorian Music Hall of Absurd Comedy & Circus Cabaret is back!! Step through the Worm Hole in their Victorian dressing room that will spit out an entirely fresh motley crew of talent to tickle your senses and spank your FESTIVE retinas!!
Review: Jack Frost at the MAC
The MAC’s 2025 Christmas production, Jack Frost, is a magical, fast-paced winter adventure perfect for families seeking festive theatre Running from 26 November 2025 to 1 January 2026, the show centres on the mischievous but big-hearted Jack Frost, played by Conor Quinn When the legendary Frozen Bell has tolled more than once it’s a rare warning that winter’s magic is under threat and Jack sets off on a snow swirling adventure to save the season
Jack’s quest is supported by a charming ensemble: Saint Nicholas (Sean Kearns), Jon Snow the talking snowman (Darren Franklin), Hoot the wise owl (Mark Dugdale), and Neve the snow angel (Eimear Fearon). Together, they face off against chilling foes, including the fearsome Krampus (Jack Watson) and the icy Cailleach (Roise Barry).
The production is filled with moments of tension, fantasy, and theatrical spectacle with wintry sets and floating moons
Written by Allison Harding and directed by Cameron Menzies, the production has turned the MAC into a shimmering winter wonderland “where frost glows and snow sings.” With its focus on adventure, friendship, and courage, Jack Frost is an uplifting story for audiences aged 5 to 105.
With a five-week run and strong local cast, this glittering festive tale is shaping up to be one of the highlights of the year at The MAC.
Performance Dates: 26 November 2025 - 1 January 2026
Age Recommendation: 5+
Venue: The Metropolitan Arts Centre (MAC), Belfast, Cathedral Quarter i k h li lf b
THE ART EDIT
Mise en Abyme by Sharon Murphy
Golden Thread Gallery
22 November 2025 – 31 January 2026
Murphy draws from her background in theatre and influences from psychoanalysis and magic realism. Delving into theatrical settings, she captures moments of quiet and stillness.
Marie Hanlon & Rhona Clarke: LAST ACT
The Mac
9 Oct 2025 - 4 Jan 2026
LAST ACT is a synchronised video installation by Marie Hanlon in collaboration with composer Rhona Clarke. The work presents climate change as something both real and abstract, as such mirrors the human response to a changing earth.
RUA ANNUAL EXHIBITION
Ulster Museum
Ends Sunday 4th January
One of the highlights of Northern Ireland’s cultural calendar, bringing together an inspiring mix of established names and emerging talent Visitors can explore over 300 works of art across painting, sculpture, ceramics, print and textiles.
T.P. Flanagan and Seamus Heaney on display at Ulster University
Art Gallery, McCracken Building (Block BC), Ulster University Belfast Campus UNTIL 22 December 2025
Ulster University is hosting the eighth annual Art Unwrapped exhibition, a treasured holiday tradition showcasing rarely seen artworks gifted to the city of Belfast from the national collection
ONTOUR NI
DECEMBER
Who’s on tour this month? Check out our gig listings on social media ONTOURNI
AD-CLICK ON THE IMAGE FOR TICKETS!
WINTER GARDEN
Forget everything you know about Christmas lights! From 28 November to 30 December 2025, Antrim Castle Gardens is transformed into the Enchanted Winter Garden, Northern Ireland’s favourite festive experience and this year it’s bigger, brighter, and better than ever
New for 2025:
The Enchanted Tree Choir: Watch the trees of Antrim Castle Gardens come to life in a magical, never-before-seen performance.
More Sparkle, More Wow: Discover dazzling new light installations, including a stunning laser display.
Upgraded Funfair: Thrilling new rides for little adventurers and adrenaline seekers alike.
Extra Festive Fun:
The event extends to 27–30 December for the Grinch to take over Santa’s Grotto!
Santa’s Grotto runs until 23 December.
Festive Food Fayre: Seasonal treats, street food, and warming drinks. Inclusive Evenings: 4 & 10 December offer softer lighting and reduced sound for a calmer experience
Whether it’s a family tradition or your first visit, Enchanted Winter Garden 2025 is a magical must-see this December.
BELFAST
LIGHTS SWITCH ON
IT’STIM
LISBURN SWITCH ON
BANGOR LIGHTS
ANTRIM CASTLE GARDENS
TITANIC BELFAST
VICTORIA SQUARE
CHRISTMAS DAYS OUT WITH THE NATIONAL TRUST
It’s time to get into the festive spirit – and there’s no better way than visiting the National Trust.
See historic houses decorated in the style of Christmases gone by, wrap up warm and enjoy the crunch of frost underfoot on family trails or shop for stocking fillers under twinkling lights at Christmas markets.
Rowallane Garden – Step into a winter wonderland this December The Yuletide Market returns on 13–14 December with local crafts, food, live music, and a Christmas Letter Trail for children.
Mount Stewart – Enjoy a late-night Christmas unveiling on 20 Dec, the “Christmas in the Big House” experience, a festive nature trail from 28 November to 4 January,, wreath-making workshops, sensory music sessions, and for a truly unique celebration, the Winter Solstice Sound Spa at the Temple of the Winds on 20 December offers a restorative retreat overlooking Strangford Lough.
Castle Ward – Indulge in Georgian-style Christmas celebrations on select dates 6 and 7 and 13 and 14 December.. Visit the Christmas Artisan Market on 6–7 December for local crafts and seasonal treats.
The Argory – The Twilight Market on 5 Dec and the Christmas Fair on 6–7 Dec offer festive stalls, artisan foods, live music, and seasonal fun; Santa included!
North Coast – Enjoy winter walks at Downhill, Mussenden Temple, Portstewart Strand, White Park Bay, and explore the charming village of Cushendun.
For full details and availability. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/northernireland/christmas
This month @keevaeats sent us foodie photos from Capparelli at the Mill. Their menu changes regularly.
Winter light glows across Belfast City Hall, perfectly framed from our table; its dome and twinkling decorations setting the stage as festive lunch begins
We start with a delicate Buffalo Mozzarella kissed with truffle honey, and the cosy embrace of Irish Stout & Onion Soup
The Roast Turkey Ballotine brings all the classic festive cheer; tender turkey wrapped around apricot and pork stuffing, thyme-roasted potatoes, bacon-wrapped sausages, and Brussels sprouts with chestnuts A satisfying, traditional Christmas lunch without the rush of Christmas Day
For a lighter, colourful option, the Lentil and Aubergine Bake brings warmth without heaviness, layered with mixed grains, roasted pumpkin purée, watercress, and a smooth tomato sauce; a vibrant choice for a winter afternoon.
Sides like Colcannon and thick cut chips are shared across the table, adding a touch of homely comfort to the meal
Then dessert appears just as City Hall’s lights blink a little brighter:
Warm mince pies dusted with pine sugar, or The Ivy Santa, a playful mix of parfait, mousse, and white chocolate bliss
From the first bite to the last, lunch at The Ivy is a pause in the day: festive, comforting, and full of winter flavours A moment to gather, unwind, and enjoy the season all before the afternoon continues
A lunchtime escape wrapped in sparkle a festive feast with the best view in the city.
Discover the joy of Christmas this year at The Ivy, Belfast www ivycollection com
TOP WINES FOR CHRISTMAS DAY
With the festive season now in full swing, it’s the perfect time to start thinking about which wines deserve a place on your table this Christmas.
Here are my top picks to enjoy on Christmas Day
For me, Christmas Day simply wouldn’t be the same without a bottle of fizz. Whether it’s a glass with breakfast, an aperitif before dinner or a toast shared with family and friends, it’s an essential in my house. It also happens to pair beautifully with a variety of starters, including smoked salmon, prawns or even pâté. For an indulgent, yet budget friendly option, I suggest choosing one of the many fabulous Champagnes available in your local supermarket. They’re often produced by some of the most famous Champagne houses (although they won’t tell you that on the label!) and offer great value for money.
Try: Co-op Les Pionniers Non Vintage Champagne, £22.75
Choosing the perfect wine to accompany the main meal can be surprisingly tricky, as a traditional Christmas dinner brings together an array of different flavours all competing for attention. From the richness of the gravy to the sweetness of the cranberry sauce and the savoury character of the stuffing, it’s a true medley of flavours on the plate. In my house, turkey always takes centre stage, and I like to serve a light red such as Pinot Noir or a good quality Beaujolais. These wines have enough acidity to cut through the richness of the food while remaining delicate enough not to overpower it. However, there are some excellent white options that work just as well. A fuller-bodied white such as a lightly oaked Chardonnay or an aromatic Viognier are great choices as they are robust enough to complement the variety of flavours on the plate yet bring a lively freshness to the meal.
Try: M&S Maison Riveraine Fleurie, £12 or Bread & Butter Chardonnay, £16 Sainsbury’s
For dessert, a Tawny Port is a great choice. Its rich, nutty character complements traditional festive treats, especially those containing dried fruit and nuts likeChristmas pudding or mince pies. It’s also delicious with chocolate or caramel desserts and pairs beautifully with strong cheeses such as Mature Cheddar, Manchego or Pecorino.
Try: Graham's 10 Year Old Tawny Port, £22.50 Tesco
About me
My name is Lisa, and I am a wine educator and writer based in Belfast. I have a passion for making wine both accessible and enjoyable and host a variety of informal yet informative wine classes in and around Belfast
In March 2025 I published my first book, ‘The Divine Wine Guide’ This beginner-friendly guide covers everything you need to know about selecting the perfect wine for any occasion and is available to buy on Amazon as both a hardback and eBook
Christmas Fashion: Sparkle, Sass, and Survival
What to wear during the festive period is an annual internal debate of epic proportions. How much glitter is too much? (Answer: never. Ever) Do sequins clash with fairy lights? (Answer: they’re in love, they enhance each other.) And can you survive a family dinner in heels without accidentally taking out the dog or a close relative (Answer: maybe, maybe not).
The holiday season is our chance to indulge in that velvet you’ve been dreaming about since February, the satin slip dress that makes you feel like a disco queen from a 70s fever dream, or the sequined blazer that screams, “Yes, I’m festive, fabulous, and I might challenge Santa to a danceoff.”
Accessories? Vital. Statement earrings, brooches that look like they belong in a museum, and lace tights that whisper mystery are the unsung heroes of festive style this season.
So, how do you embrace this most magical time of the year without looking like a festive photocopy of everyone else at the party? One show-stopping piece. That’s it. A jewel-toned coat, a feathered hem, or earrings so dramatic they deserve their own Instagram reel. Accessories are your allies: sculptural earrings, madly brilliant brooches, patterned tights, or a belt that whispers I am fabulous, hear me roar.
Tailoring is your secret superpower. Cinched waist? Check. Oversized blazer? Check. Structured coat? Check. This says: I didn’t just throw this on; I arrived like a hero in a Christmas epic. Layer thoughtfully, not like you’ve been attacked by your wardrobe. A statement lip is always always a simple style power move!
There are standout pieces everywhere in the recently dropped H&M Studio collection.
The collection is an escapist, glamorous take on the holiday season that revolves around the power of selfexpression – and creativity.
Celebrating the provocative, theatrical essence of the New Romantics, this latest collection brings together extravagant style and a fierce attitude. It’s a balancing act of the exuberance of the 1980s movement and the rationality of today – from dresses with exaggerated ruffles to sharp-shouldered blazers, dramatic dotted lace to a dark, opulent floral print, and washed leather to sheer sequinned mesh.
H&M Studio Holiday is available in selected stores and online at hm.com now.
Confidence, my sweets, is the glitter that actually matters. The rest? Optional. Remember sparkle like you mean it!
Schuh
Dr Martens- buzz lace
high boot- dark brown
£200
REGATTA
MEN'S MAYFIELD BOOTS | BLACK
£100
Barbour X Sorel
Daystorm Resolute GTX
Waterproof Hiking Boots
£250 00
Available at Barbour.com
GEORGE AT ASDA RED SANTA FOOTBALL JUMPER £12
MATALAN 'CLAUSEMOPOLITAN' SWEATSHIRT £16
PEACOCKS
XMAS REINDEER FAMILY JUMPER
£22
RIVER ISLAND
BRIGHT MG DEAR SANTA XMAS JUMPER
£29
In slang, "locking in" means to enter a state of intense focus, deep concentration, and full commitment to a specific task or goal
WHAT’S YOUR FOCUS THIS WINTER?
Winter in Belfast isn’t for hibernating—it’s for LOCKING IN
☕ Cosy cafés like Daisies, Black Sheep, and The Pocket become your hubs for focus, creativity, and productivity. Shorter days = fewer distractions = perfect time to tackle goals, whether it’s fitness, personal projects, or learning something new.
�� Book lovers rejoice!
The Linen Hall Library, one of Ireland’s oldest libraries, is perfect for quiet reading or research. Belfast Central Library offers an inspiring space with vast resources and study areas. Dive into new subjects, write, or simply reflect—winter is made for it.
�� Stay active!
Belfast is gearing up as the 2026 European City of Sport, and its City Council leisure centres are ready to help you move. From swimming pools and gyms to sports halls and group fitness classes, there’s something for everyone Even in the colder months, the city encourages you to stay motivated, try new activities, and keep wellness a priority.
�� Fresh air breaks
Wrap up and enjoy crisp walks along the River Lagan or through Botanic Gardens, where winter’s calm beauty is everywhere. Pop into local markets for seasonal treats, or warm up with your favourite café coffee while planning your week.
This winter, Belfast isn’t a city to endure, it’s a city to thrive in. Cosy spaces, mindful walks, and staying active make the quieter months your most productive yet. �� 27
Belfast International Airport has announced a series of new food and beverage options as part of its £100m five-year investment plan. The first, ‘Soul and Grain’, opened this week in partnership with SSP Group A new 300-seat premium bar and kitchen is in development, while Starbucks and Burger King will stay alongside a new family-friendly dining concept The Lagan Bar will also be refreshed with more seating.
These upgrades build on the airport’s new security hall, duty-free area, arrivals zone and forecourt. Chief Executive Dan Owens said the aim is to reflect Northern Ireland’s renowned hospitality and enhance the passenger experience
The new outlets will highlight local culture and produce, forming the centrepiece of a revamped terminal SSP UK & Ireland CEO Kari Daniels said the redevelopment will showcase the best of Northern Ireland, offering more choice through new own-brand concepts and refreshed favourites.
The 33 annual Holiday World Show Belfast in association with Bookit by NI Travel News will return to the ICC Belfast at the Waterfront on January 9-11, 2026, bringing a world of travel under one roof for a weekend of holiday inspiration, expert advice and exclusive offers
The three-day event showcases a huge choice of travel options at home and abroad to more than 10,000 visitors every year.
Stena Line has more than doubled the number of pet cabins on its Belfast–Liverpool sailings and added a new deluxe option as demand rises. Nearly 14,000 pets have travelled on the route this year.
The route now offers 11 pet cabins: interior and sea-view four-berths, plus new deluxe cabins with a double bed, balcony, and direct outdoor access.
If you’re visiting Cobh, this charming harbour town packs history, scenery, and cosy spots for a day of exploring
1. Titanic Experience – Begin your journey where history meets storytelling. Walk in the footsteps of Titanic passengers and uncover fascinating tales of triumph, tragedy, and Cobh’s role as the ship’s final port of call.
2. St. Colman’s Cathedral – This Gothic Revival gem dominates the skyline. Contact the on-site Parish office to book a tour of this beautiful Cathedral.
3. Oasis Tea Room – Recharge at this hidden local favourite at St. Benedict's Priory. Sip perfectly brewed tea, savour homemade cakes, and soak in the warm, welcoming atmosphere; it’s the perfect pause in a day of exploring
4. Harbour Promenade towards the Titanic memorial garden – Wander along the waterfront, watch boats drift by, and take in the colorful houses lining the quay It’s relaxing and picture-perfect
5. Deck of Cards photo stop – Don’t miss the view of the famous row of houses Their vibrant facades and perfect hillside lineup create one of Ireland’s most photographed scenes; deal for capturing your own postcard moment.
BALLYSCULLION PARK
Discover Bellaghy, Mid Ulster for an Autumn or Winter staycation
Northern Ireland is full of hidden gems, and this month we’d like to introduce you to one of themthe charming village of Bellaghy in Mid Ulster. Bellaghy is the hometown of Nobel Prize winning poet Seamus Heaney, and many of the surrounding landscapes inspired some of his most celebrated work Because of this deep connection, Bellaghy is often affectionately known as “Heaney Country”
Sometimes it’s the places people rarely talk about that are the most rewarding to visit, and Bellaghy is definitely one of them.
At the heart of the village is Seamus Heaney HomePlace, an award-winning museum dedicated to Ireland’s most beloved poet The exhibition does require an entry ticket, but it is well worth itvisitors can listen to Heaney himself reading his poems, making for a truly unforgettable experience.
The cosy café inside the HomePlace is free to enjoy, whether you want a coffee, a bite to eat, or simply to browse their peaceful library Beyond the museum, Bellaghy offers scenic walking trails, nearby historic sites, and a warm small-village charm that instantly makes you feel at home
�� How far is it from Belfast?
Bellaghy is around 40 minutes to one hour from Belfast, depending on traffic and the route you choose - perfect for a day trip.
We decided to stay overnight at Ballyscullion Park Courtyard Cottages, set within beautiful gardens and peaceful surroundings. There was so much to explore, and we were lucky enough to watch flocks of swans migrating from Greenland - it truly felt like stepping into a David Attenborough documentary.
There are also several local restaurants serving seasonal game menus, which was a unique and memorable experience.
Bellaghy touched our hearts in so many ways. So, are you planning a visit to Seamus Heaney HomePlace soon? And if you know someone getting married, Ballyscullion Park is well worth checking out.
We can’t wait to share even more amazing places around Northern Ireland.
Angela Tong - Everywhere With Angela
Galgorm, Northern Ireland’s premier luxury resort, has achieved international acclaim following a series of major international hotel and spa accolades. The resort was named Global Winner for Luxury Resort at the World Luxury Hotel Awards, and Global Winner for Luxury Golf Resort Spa at the World Luxury Spa Awards At the Condé Nast Johansens Awards in London, Galgorm’s celebrated Thermal Spa Village was awarded Best Spa Weekend.
At the World Luxury Spa Awards, the resort also received the titles of Luxury Thermal Spa for Europe and Luxury Spa Resort for Northern Europe. At the World Luxury Hotel Awards, Galgorm was additionally recognised as the United Kingdom’s Leading Luxury Wedding Resort and Luxury Golf Resort.
Adding to its internationally acclaimed spa offering, Galgorm will officially open the first phase of its new Forest Spa Garden on 18 December 2025, marking the beginning of a multi-year development programme that will see subsequent phases unveiled annually through to 2029. th
THE HOTE
The Marcus Portrush, Tapestry Collection by Hilton celebrated its opening with a special launch event attended by Simon Vincent, President, Europe, Middle East and Africa, Hilton, Stephen Cassidy, Senior Vice President, UK & Ireland, Hilton, and Deputy Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council Alderman Richard Stewart The hotel has been developed by Andras Hotels, Northern Ireland’s largest hotelier, which will operate the hotel as part of Hilton’s Tapestry Collection by Hilton brand.
This Christmas, room2, the UK’s first hometel brand, is giving the festive season a sustainable twist by transforming waste coffee grounds into a thoughtful selection of gifts and experiences including 3D printed ornaments, soaps, and cocktails Taking place across its Chiswick, Southampton, and Belfast locations, the Circular Christmas celebrations will run from 1st to 31st December 2025.
B E LFAST
®
Oceania Cruises unveils Oceania Sonata, set to debut in 2027 The vessel will be the first of four 1,390-guest ships in the new Sonata Class, representing the next chapter in the line’s continued evolution of its intimate, luxurious ships.
Celebrity Cruises has launched a first-of-its-kind festival programme debuting on Celebrity Xcel, the newest Edge Series ship and home to The Bazaar, a unique multi-level, multi-sensory venue After its Caribbean debut, Celebrity Xcel will sail Europe in Summer 2026, marking the brand’s first dedicated European festival experiences at sea Four new “Only in Europe” festivals will transform The Bazaar, each celebrating iconic European flavours, traditions and summer atmospheres
Oceania Cruises® has christened its newest ship, Oceania Allura™, during a vibrant ceremony in Miami. The line’s eighth vessel features spacious 290-square-foot staterooms, measures 791 feet, and weighs over 67,000 tons. Designed for 1,200 guests, Oceania Allura maintains a high staff-toguest ratio, with two crew members for every three guests and half devoted to culinary service.
Star Princess; the newest and most innovative ship from Princess Cruises was officially named by godparents, Camila and Matthew McConaughey.
