It's a little under two months until Christmas Day 2024, and already there are a plethora of events taking place across Northern Ireland leading up to the big day.
From the works of CS Lewis being celebrated to a mission to save Santa at Armagh Planetarium, there is a little bit of something for everyone this year - and plenty of Christmas Light Switch Ons taking place throughout November 2024.
Many of the events we’ve chosen are free, but in the event your interest is piqued by one of the paid events, we’ve made sure it’s something that either won’t break the bank or is worth the price of admission.
So what 21 events have we chosen across different areas of Northern Ireland worth planning for in the weeks ahead? Take a look and start marking dates on your calendar.
.jpeg?crop=4:3&trim=&width=800)
13. Christmas Light Switch Ons - Causeway Coast & Glens
Santa has a busy time ahead to look forward to, as he will make his way around the four towns marking the beginning of Christmas celebrations. Festivities will commence in Ballymoney on Thursday November 21, followed by Saturday November 23 in Limavady, Thursday November 28 in Ballycastle and finishing on Friday November 29 in Coleraine. | Provided
.jpeg?crop=4:3&trim=&width=800)
14. City of Bangor Christmas Switch On
Celebrate Christmas in the City! Enjoy festive family fun throughout the city centre, including the annual City Centre Passport Trail. Kickstart your Christmas shopping, be entertained, and mark the beginning of the Christmas season in Bangor on November 23. | Provided
15. Christmas Twilight Market
Belfast’s magical Christmas Twilight Market at St George's Market returns on November 26 and 27, offering samples from delicious artisan food and drink to finding the perfect Christmas gift for someone special, the market has something special for every visitor. When the shopping is completed, relax and enjoy the Christmas atmosphere with live music and entertainment including cookery demonstrations and workshops by the Belfast Stories team. | Provided
16. Christmas Light Switch On in Antrim and Newtownabbey
Get ready to kick off the holiday season in style! The annual Christmas Light Switch On events take place across Antrim and Newtownabbey. The first set of lights are set to be turned on at Crumlin Leisure Centre on November 21, with John Street Car Park, Randalstown, Lilian Bland Park, Glengormley, Hazelbank Park, Mossley Mill and Railway Street Car Park lights being turned on the following day, culminating in the The Square Car Park, Ballyclare turn on taking place November 30. | Alexandru Manole from Pixabay