Mourne Gullion Strangford will be hosting Christmas events this festive season, adding to the community's Christmas cheer. Join with us as we light up Mourne Gullion Strangford with our annual Christmas Lights Switch on events. Click here to find out more.
Below is a handy guide to Christmas events in Mourne Gullion Strangford:
1 November - 20 December
Celebrate the festive season with the East Coast Adventure Christmas Archery Experience! Perfect for groups and individuals of all ages and abilities, this seasonal activity runs throughout the festive period, bringing fun, excitement, and a touch of holiday cheer. Held in our Indoor Archery Barn in the breathtaking Mourne Mountains, sessions are led by fully qualified instructors with over 30 years of experience, ensuring a safe, enjoyable, and memorable experience for everyone.
7 November
Sommelier Alex Johnson DipWSET, of JN Wines Crossgar who has promised some "Wines for Christmas Dining". Taking place in the Centre, this is an enjoyable evening of fine wines, tasty canapés and lots of conversation and craic. Come as a group or on your own. You'll not be lonely!
14 & 28 November
Welcome to "Date with a Donkey" at our charming farm in Ballynahinch! Get ready for a truly unique and unforgettable experience as you spend a delightful 2-hour session with our lovely donkeys.
19 November
Christmas Tree Lights Switch on at Montalto Estate, Ballynahinch
At 6pm
20 November
Celebrate the Christmas season at the Newry Christmas Lights Switch-on! This Christmas event is full of fun for the whole family, with free entertainment, and live music.
Join us as Santa himself switches on the Christmas lights, bringing a magical start to the Christmas season in Newry City! This event is a wonderful way for the community to come together, enjoy the celebrations, and support local shopping during the holidays.
21 November - 24 December
Santa's Cottage, Hilltown
Visit Ireland’s official residence of Santa Claus! From the moment you arrive, expect magical moments, charming elves, and a cosy festive atmosphere.
28 November
Join in the Festivities in Ballynahinch this Christmas or an evening filled with sparkle, joy, and festive fun!
28 November
Celebrate the season at the Downpatrick Christmas Lights Celebration in St Patrick Square, Downpatrick!
This festive event is packed with fun for the whole family, with free crafts, entertainment and live music.
Join us as Santa himself lights the tree, creating a magical start to the Christmas season in Downpatrick! This event is a fantastic way for the community to come together to celebrate Christmas and encourage shopping locally in this festive season.
29 November
Warrenpoint Chamber of Commerce is delighted to announce the annual Warrenpoint Christmas Light Switch-On will take place on Saturday 30 November 2024 from 5pm - 7pm in Warrenpoint Town Square.
29 November
Kilkeel Development Association and Kilkeel Chamber of Commerce are delighted to announce Dickens Day/Christmas Light Switch on in Kilkeel.
Activities include: Christmas Variety Show, Children's Entertainment ... and much more!
29 November
Join us as we begin the festive season in Newcastle, on Saturday 29 November for our annual Newcastle Christmas Light Switch on.
29 November
Get ready to dance, laugh, and win crazy prizes at Festive Bonkers Bingo - where the fun never stops!
29 November
Twilight Market at Newcastle Community Cinema
2pm - 4pm
29 November & 30 December
Add the perfect finishing touch to your Christmas décor with a festive wreath you’ve crafted yourself. Set amidst the beautiful surroundings of The Carriage Rooms at Montalto, this workshop is ideal for all skill levels, whether you’re a seasoned creator or a first-timer. It’s a wonderful way to spend a couple of hours with friends or enjoy a peaceful, creative escape on your own in the lead-up to Christmas.
Weekends from 29 November until 21 December
Lapland Express - Downpatrick & County Down Railway
Climb aboard the Lapland Express for a festive rail journey! Travel with Mr and Mrs Claus, enjoy onboard entertainment, and receive presents and treats as you make magical memories.
29 & 30 November
Add the perfect finishing touch to your Christmas décor with a festive wreath you’ve crafted yourself. Set amidst the beautiful surroundings of The Carriage Rooms at Montalto, this workshop is ideal for all skill levels, whether you’re a seasoned creator or a first-timer. It’s a wonderful way to spend a couple of hours with friends or enjoy a peaceful, creative escape on your own in the lead-up to Christmas.
29 & 30 November
Georgian Christmastide in the Mansion House at Castle Ward, Strangford
Experience lavish Georgian décor, bustling kitchens, and holiday storytelling.
30 November
Set within the stunning surroundings of The Carriage Rooms, add the perfect finishing touch to your Christmas décor with a festive wreath you’ve crafted yourself.
30 November
Join us for an afternoon of food, music and carols at the Slieve Donard Hotel, where guests will enjoy a festive two-course lunch followed by a powerful live performance from the Belfast Community Gospel Choir.
4 December
Step into a festive evening at the Down Arts Centre Christmas Fair – 'Tales & Tastes' on Thursday 4 December 2025, from 6 – 9pm. Enjoy a magical blend of seasonal stories, delicious festive treats, and local crafts, perfect for families and friends…
4 - 23 December
Step into a world of festive wonder this Christmas as the historic castle is transformed into a magical winter experience for all the family. Each year, Santa at the Castle brings a brand-new themed story to life, making every visit a unique and memorable adventure. In 2025, join our elves as they guide your family through the castle’s hidden basements, where storytellers, the elegant Ice Queen, the kind-hearted Mrs. Claus, and playful elves weave magic and laughter into the Christmas tale.
4 - 23 December
Step off the yellow brick road and into a Christmas adventure unlike any other!
The Saint Patrick Centre brings the magic of The Wizard of Oz to life this holiday season, combining the wonder of Oz with the joy of meeting Santa. Children will wander through a sparkling winter wonderland, meet Dorothy, the Scarecrow, and the Tin Man, and finally arrive at Santa’s Emerald City workshop.
5 December
Welcome to "Date with a Donkey" at our charming farm in Ballynahinch! Get ready for a truly unique and unforgettable experience as you spend a delightful 2-hour session with our lovely donkeys.
5 December
Get ready to dance, laugh, and win crazy prizes at Festive Bonkers Bingo - where the fun never stops!
5 & 6 December
Join us for a festive Twilight Market at The Carriage Rooms! Explore an array of artisan stalls, handmade gifts, festive treats, and local craft stalls from Northern Irish suppliers, perfect for picking out unique Christmas gifts.
5 | 12 | 19 | December
Festive Afternoon Tea at The Cafe, Montalto Estate, Ballynahinch
6 December
Get ready to indulge in 2 hours of prosecco and tasty buffet at our Festive Bottomless Brunch - the ultimate weekend treat!
6 December
This spectacular Christmas Extravaganza has become one of the most eagerly anticipated on the Christmas calendar. Riders from all over the province dressed up as Santa, will converge on the historical market town of Saintfield to take part.
6 December
Join our local artist to get into the holiday spirit and enjoy making magical Christmas art inspired by nature.
6 & 7 December
Christmas at Castle Ward, Strangford
Celebrate the season with an Artisan Market in the theatre space and Stable Yard.
6 | 7 | 13 | 14 December
Georgian Christmastide in the Mansion House, Castle Ward, Strangford
Experience lavish Georgian décor, bustling kitchens, and holiday storytelling.
6 | 7 | 13 | 14 | 20 - 23 December
Christmas at Mountpanther Farm Park, Clough
Step into a Winter Wonderland! Warm up with a festive drink, explore Santa’s Workshop, meet his reindeer and quirky elves, post your letter to the North Pole, make reindeer food, and craft your own Christmas decoration.
6 | 12 | 13 | 19 | 20 December
Christmas Party Nights 2025 - 4 Course Evening Meal plus entertainment.
6 | 13 | 20 December
Immerse yourself in the festive spirit with our Christmas Alpaca Experience, which is suitable for all ages. Enjoy meeting, walking and feeding our alpacas, followed by some Christmas crafts for both adults and children – something to take home and treasure for years to come. Everyone enjoys a visit from Father Christmas, who will have gifts for everyone, adults and children.
7 December
Join our local artist to get into the holiday spirit and enjoy making magical Christmas art inspired by nature.
7 & 14 December
Enjoy a three-course lunch with tea and coffee, a festive disco (3–5pm), Christmas face painting, and a special gift from Santa and his helpers.
7 & 14 December
Santa Sundays at The Cafe, Montalto Estate, Ballynahinch
Enjoy a festive lunch as Santa roams the café spreading joy, then take magical photos with him.
Booking is free: Call 028 9756 6100
7 | 14 | 21 | December
Enjoy a luxurious three-course carvery with a live pianist and meet Santa in a setting filled with festive elegance.
11 - 14 December
Christmas Tree Festival, Newcastle
Organised by The Fishermen's Mission - Location: St John's Church, Newcastle
Entrance £5 (proceeds to The Fishermen's Mission)
Teas & Coffee available in the hall (proceeds to St John's Church)
12 December
A unique Christmas Party Night.
Get ready for Christmas Day and incorporate seafood into your menu. Our `Festive Cook n Dine' is a 3 hour cookery demo taster session. This will also include home-made bread and cocktails. On the evening you will be sampling these mouth-watering dishes with a complimentary class of wine. Perfect enjoyable evening out with family, friends or work colleagues before the Christmas madness.
13 December
Christmas Tractor Road Run
Organised by Seaforde Working Vintage Club
Location: Kanes' Yard, Seaforde - Finishing at Mountpanther Farm Park from 4pm
13 December
Join us for a festive afternoon of creativity and indulgence in the cosy setting of The Café snug. Unleash your inner artist as you paint and personalise your own Christmas baubles, creating keepsakes to treasure or gift to loved ones. While you craft, soak up the sounds of the season with a selection of festive tunes that set the perfect holiday mood.
13 December
Step into a world of holiday sparkle, laughter, and fairy-tale magic as Santa Claus, Buddy the Elf, and their merry friends bring the spirit of Christmas to life before your eyes.
This enchanting show is packed with lively holiday tunes, toe-tapping dances, and sing-alongs the whole family can join in with. Children will be captivated by the interactive activities woven throughout the performance, while parents can capture plenty of photo opportunities to treasure long after the curtain falls.
13 December
Join our local artist to get into the holiday spirit and enjoy making magical Christmas art inspired by nature.
13 & 14 December
Yuletide Market, Rowallane Garden, Saintfield
Soak in the Christmas atmosphere festive stalls fill the garden with scents, sounds, and seasonal sparkle. Santa may even make a surprise appearance on his stroll.
14 December
Bring your furry friend to meet Santa for a paw-sitively magical experience! It's the perfect opportunity for a festive photo with your beloved pet at Montalto this festive season.
14 December
Join our local artist to get into the holiday spirit and enjoy making magical Christmas art inspired by nature.
20 December
This is the perfect chance to stop and connect with the Winter Solstice light on sacred Slieve Gullion mountain. Forest Bathing is an evidence-based wellness practice which originated in Japan in the 1980’s as a stress prevention intervention. 2 hours in the forest boosts your immunity for up to 10 days.
20 December
Christmas Experience at Kinedale Donkeys, Ballynahinch
Enjoy festive fun with the charming Kinedale donkeys, dressed in their holiday best! Brush and cuddle them, join in crafts, and meet Santa for a special Christmas surprise.
20 December
Cider & Sleigh Bells Evening at Kinedale Donkeys, Ballynahinch
Celebrate with mulled drinks, sweet treats, and time spent with your long-eared friends.
27 December
A fairytale day for the whole family. Join us as our Grand Ballroom transforms into a royal setting for little Princes and Princesses, where all ages can enjoy themed entertainment, sweet and savoury treats, and a truly magical afternoon.
28 December
Join us for an incredible night of music and dancing to your favourite Abba songs.
Doors open at 7.30pm with The Bjorn Identity performing from 9-11pm. And don't worry, we will be keeping the party going with a DJ to close the night until 12.30am. Book your tickets now to avoid missing out.
29 December
Michael English & His Band will be playing at the Canal Court Hotel & Spa on Monday 29th December in association with SS Peter & Paul Restoration Campaign. Stay for just £239 per double/twin room including bed, breakfast and ticket into show. A non refundable and non transferrable deposit of £25 per person will be debited at the time of booking.
29 December
Tractor Pull & Live Threshing Day, Seaforde
Details to follow
