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.

17. Mission Santa
It's a real Code Red! Join the E.L.F. crew at Armagh Planetarium on Mission Santa and blast off on a Christmas adventure. Your out-of-this-world adventure will include admission to a full-dome show in the dome theatre, a present for each child and a printed family photograph alongside a live theatrical experience from November 23 to December 23. | Provided

18. CS Lewis Winter Festival
A winter wonderland of family-friendly Narnia and Christmas-themed activities is set to take place at, where else, CS Lewis Square, Belfast. The area will host the main events with other festive happenings across east Belfast from November 29 to December 1. | Getty Images

19. Georgian Light Show 2024
The dramatic “It’s A Holly Jolly Christmas” light show will transform the Market House in Armagh; a beautiful Georgian building into a shimmering canvas for images, special effects, and other surprises on November 29 and 30. Weather permitting, Santa hopes to arrive on the roof of Market House, Market Street, to wave hello to everyone too. | Provided
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20. Newtownards Christmas Switch On
Join in the festivities in Newtownards, as the specialty Christmas market returns to the town centre, soak up the seasonal atmosphere and enjoy some Christmas shopping. Follow the Christmas Passport Trail around the town for lots of festive fun, with the Lights Switch On taking place in Conway Square on November 30. | Provided

