Getting Here
Getting to the Armagh Georgian Festival is easy! It’s just 60 minutes from Belfast or 90 from Dublin by car, with direct bus links from many areas across NI and ROI. The Enterprise train runs between Dublin and Belfast, stopping at Newry and Portadown. A free shuttle bus will operate hourly on Saturday 30th November, connecting Portadown Train Station to Armagh.
11.00am: Arrival
Once you arrive, check into your accommodation. From hotels and self-catering to cosy glamping, guest houses, and B&Bs, there are plenty of options close to the city. Explore accommodation options here.
12:00pm: Georgian Day Stalls
Start your day with a wander through the heart of Armagh, where the streets come alive with Georgian charm. Brass bands and carol singers bring festive cheer, and you can enjoy a cozy lunch at a local café or the hot food village before diving into the artisan Christmas markets. Packed with handmade crafts and tasty local treats, the kids will love discovering hidden gems while you soak in the cheerful atmosphere.
Keep an eye out for Georgian characters in period costume, including the Town Crier with the latest news, Red Coats performing military drills, and mischievous young Urchins – who might just be cheeky pickpockets!
Top Tip: Don’t forget to snap a family photo with some of the wandering Georgian characters who are sure to bring some extra holiday spirit to your day!
We also recommend a short walk to the Hill of Armagh, where the Robinson Library and No. 5 Vicars’ Hill invite visitors to step back in time and discover the Georgian art of wax sealing.
2.00pm: Family Fun on The Mall
Next, head over to The Mall, the heart of the festive family fun! Kids will love the traditional funfair rides as this tree-lined Mall comes alive with family stalls, and children’s entertainment. The Mall is buzzing with entertainment that will captivate kids and adults alike with the ever-popular carousel, festive music, and hot chestnuts ensure hours of fun for all.
Whilst there are loads of activities to enjoy, here are some highlights to plan your day:
- 2.00pm – Courthouse Mock Trials (pre-booking required): Step into Armagh Courthouse for an interactive and often hilarious experience of Georgian justice. Play your part as a jury member in this engaging mock trial. Tickets are popular, so book ahead here! (Also available at 12pm)
- Traditional Funfair Rides: The Mall offers classic fun with swing boats, a beautiful carousel, and traditional games like Hoopla, Hook a Duck, and Coconut Shy. Plus, meet Santa’s reindeer before they prepare for sleigh duty.
- Silhouette Cutter: Visit Armagh County Museum to capture your very own silhouette memento, just like in fashionable Georgian society. This free activity is available without booking, subject to availability.
- Fire Performances: As the day winds down, enjoy fresh hot chestnuts and watch mesmerising fire performances light up The Mall as night falls.
6pm: Lightshow – ‘It’s a Holly Jolly Christmas’ **
The Light Show is a must-see on every family’s bucket list to cap off a fantastic day! As the city lights up for Christmas, the dramatic “It’s a Holly Jolly Christmas” light show will transform a stunning Georgian building into a shimmering canvas filled with images, special effects, and delightful surprises! The whole family will leave with hearts full of Christmas cheer and memories to last all season long.
** Please note: the lightshow is extremely popular, and tickets must be pre-booked. Tickets will be available from 10am on Tuesday 5th November 2024 here. Other show times on Georgian Day are: 5pm, 6pm, 7pm and 8pm. Tickets are also available for Friday evening.
7.00pm: Dinner at Uluru Bar & Bistro
Uluru Bar & Grill is an award-winning Australian style restaurant that celebrates authentic cooking with an Australian twist. Serving a wide range of menu options complimented by an extensive wine and cocktail menu, it is the perfect way to end a magical day. Top Tip: Pre-book your table for Georgian Day!
