Everything you need to know – event times, parking, traffic and more.
Armagh’s Georgian Festival is set to get underway from Thursday November 28 to Sunday December 1, building towards the main event ‘Armagh Georgian Day’ on Saturday November 30.
With several road closures and parking arrangements in place to facilitate the festivities, we’ve got everything you need to know to plan ahead and ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.
What’s on – Georgian Day
Most of Armagh’s Georgian Day events are free, including:
- Georgian Day Artisan Market, City Centre, 12noon – 8pm
Over 100 festive stalls will line Mall East, Russell Street, Upper English Street, Scotch Street, Thomas Street and Market Street, offering food, crafts, and Christmas gifts. Enjoy lively entertainment and a vibrant festive atmosphere as talented musicians and singers fill the streets with festive cheer.
- Family Festive Fun, The Mall, 12noon – 6pm
Join the festive fun on The Mall with traditional rides like Swing Boats and the Carousel, games like Hoopla and Hook a Duck, Santa’s Reindeer plus more festive food and craft stalls! Enjoy hot chestnuts and, as night falls, marvel at the dazzling fire performers light up The Mall.
- Living History Characters, City Centre, 12noon – 8pm
Living History performances have become a highlight of Georgian Day, offering an unforgettable experience for all ages. Dressed in authentic period costumes, these characters represent Georgian society, from gentry in fine silks and powdered wigs to laborers, traders, and Red Coat soldiers performing military drills. The Town Crier will share the latest news, while costumed stallholders sell their wares. Adding charm and mischief are the Georgian Urchins (12noon – 5.30pm), re-enacting playful skits while showcasing their (pretend!) pickpocketing skills.
- Photo Opportunities: Scotch Street, Thomas Street and Upper English Street, 12noon -8pm
Capture the magic with the Light-Up Christmas Bauble, perfect for family photos, located on Scotch Street. Explore more delightful displays, including a Light-Up Unicorn on Thomas Street, a Red and Gold Teddy Bear, and a Musical Snowman on Upper English Street.
- Georgian Day on Vicars Hill, 12noon – 6pm
Explore one of Armagh’s finest Georgian buildings and Northern Ireland’s oldest public library, learn about Wax Sealing in the former Registry, and discover treasures from Archbishop Robinson’s Georgian vision for Armagh. From 12noon to 4.30pm, enjoy a special treat with a Georgian Caricaturist in the Library to capture your likeness!
- Silhouette Cutter, Armagh County Museum, 12noon – 4.45pm
An opportunity to capture your own silhouette memento. Drop in and get your individual or family silhouette cut.
Ticketed events:
A limited number of tickets are still available for ticketed events on Georgian Day. Tickets can be purchased at www.visitarmagh.com/georgian
- Georgian Light Show “It’s a Holly Jolly Christmas”, Market Street, 8.00pm
Enjoy an unforgettable evening as the city comes alive with festive cheer! The spectacular light show will transform the historic Market House into a dazzling display of images, special effects, and surprises. Don’t miss this enchanting experience that captures the true spirit of the season!
- Georgian Ladies who Lunch, Armagh County Museum, 12.30pm
Observe the ladies of Armagh as they prepare to take their mid-day repast. Enjoy some tittle tattle while they sip their scandal broth.
- Delicacies, Dancing, and Indiscretions, Charlemont Arms Hotel, 2.45pm
Discover the vibrant history of Armagh’s Georgian Tontine Assembly Rooms, once a hub for investment insights, local gossip, and social events. Experience history firsthand with Living History characters, who will re-enact scenes from the Tontine Assembly Rooms and heyday.
- Guided Walking Tours, City Centre (12noon) and Palace Demesne (3.00pm)
Delve into the Georgian history of Armagh with an insight into many of the notable buildings.
Listen as your Guide paints a picture of the legacy of Archbishop Robinson and the vision he had for Armagh as a University City or enjoy a leisurely tour through the splendid Place Demesne where you will be regaled with stories of the former Archbishop of Armagh, a colourful personality, who had the Primate’s Palace built in 1770.
Road closures on Saturday November 30
Market Street to Upper English Street, Upper English Street from junction of Russell Street to entrance of St. Patrick’s Trian/Market Place Theatre Car Park, Russell Street, Scotch Street, Thomas Street, Ogle Street, Top of Jenny’s Row, Castle Street (3pm-9pm with resident’s access facilitated), Mall East Lane Closure in place.
Car parking availability
Drivers are reminded that normal on street parking restrictions will be in place and people should avoid parking anywhere they may be blocking entrances to residences or businesses or where they may be obstructing emergency access.
Parking is available at several locations throughout the city:
- The Mall Shopping Centre [Mall West] – 412 spaces
- Dobbin Street Lane / St Malachy’s Car Park* – 248 spaces
- Friary Road Car Park* – 182 spaces
- Court House* – 31 spaces
- Lonsdale Road* – 99 spaces
*Council owned carparks are free of charge on Saturday November 30.
Public Transport
Free park-and-ride buses will operate to and from Armagh City Centre, with stops at Portadown Train Station, Richhill War Memorial, Elim Church, and The Mall, Armagh.
Buses will run throughout the day, departing Portadown Train Station at 10:45 am and returning from The Mall at 8:50 pm.
Additionally, park-and-ride buses will run within the city between the Palace Demesne, Navan Centre and Fort, and The Mall.
These buses will depart at 11:45 am and return from The Mall at 8:45pm.
Retailer Offers
In addition to over 100 festive stalls, it’s the ideal time to kick off your Christmas shopping in Armagh city centre.
Local retailers are joining in the holiday spirit, with many offering special promotions, discounts, and exclusive deals throughout the day.
Whether you’re looking for unique gifts, seasonal décor, or festive treats, this is the perfect opportunity to explore Armagh’s charming shops and support local businesses while enjoying the festive atmosphere and celebrations around the city.
For full details visit www.visitarmagh.com/georgian
