Armagh’s annual Georgian Festival will kickstart Northern Ireland’s festive season, marking the perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit.
Returning for its 20th year this November, the award-winning event will run from November 28 to December 1, launching the Cathedral City’s Christmas celebrations.
The city is set to bring its Georgian past to life through buildings, characters, customs and a jam-packed programme of events that will appeal to history buffs, curious families, culture vultures and foodies.
Many of the events are free to attend, and so the destination is preparing to welcome thousands to the city across the four days.
Festival goers can choose from a range of guided tours, each offering a unique glimpse into Armagh’s rich history.
From the scenic Palace Demesne Tour and exclusive Archbishops Palace tours to the informative Guided Georgian Walking Tour, there’s something for everyone.
Food lovers can indulge in a sparkling three-course feast in the glorious surroundings of the Archbishop’s Palace at the Highwayman’s Banquet as they listen to tales and tunes dedicated to stories of the Notorious Highwaymen and Rapparees, creating a dining experience that seamlessly blends history, storytelling, and fine cuisine.
There’s also the chance to get a taste for the pitiless Georgian legal system as a member of the jury at Armagh Courthouse in a mock-trial – a spectacle of rough justice.
Throughout the city, festivalgoers will encounter iconic Georgian figures—noble gentry, street urchins, and gin-soaked ladies—as they wander and explore.
On The Mall, families can enjoy an array of festive activities, including traditional funfair rides like the Carousel and Swing Boats, along with classic games such as Hoopla, Hook a Duck, and Coconut Shy.
Santa’s reindeer will even make an appearance, and as night falls, fire performers will light up the evening for all to enjoy.
Topping off the programme is the acclaimed Light Show. It will run Friday, November 29 and Saturday, November 30 and is a dramatic Holly Jolly Christmas animation that will transform the Market House into a shimmering canvas for images, special effects, and other surprises. (Tickets essential)
Deputy Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Cllr Kyle Savage said: “Our Georgian Festival is an established cornerstone of Armagh’s cultural calendar – it’s recognised far and wide for its impressive selection of activities, and the unforgettable energy and atmosphere it brings to the city.
“Through the combined efforts of the local Council team, and our artists, performers, retailers and artisans, we’ve been able to build an event that brings the local community together, whilst also welcoming visitors to experience the rich heritage and history of Armagh City and its surrounding areas.”
The Georgian Festival originally launched in 2004 as a one-day market, thanks to the efforts of a team of remarkable local retailers.
Since then, it has transformed into the four-day celebration known to most today and has soared in popularity with people from Ireland and the UK, as well as international visitors, as a result.
The artisan market element of the festival has now grown to include more than 130 festive market stalls selling high-quality crafts, gifts, food and seasonal products, making it one of the largest on the island. Set to take place on Georgian Day, Saturday November 30, the Georgian market stalls will take place as the clip clop of horses and the aroma of roasting chestnuts and mulled spices fills the street.
Roberta Wright of Wrights Interiors on Scotch Street in the city was part of a team of retailers who were responsible for establishing Georgian Day in its early days.
It was created as an opportunity to showcase Armagh, to highlight the wealth of independent retailers in the city and add some Christmas sparkle for visitors.
She said: “It’s incredible how far the festival has come since we first launched in 2004. Armagh has such a unique history, a fascinating story to tell, and a community of people who are passionate about the heritage of this place, and our Georgian Festival gives us the perfect platform to showcase everything that makes Armagh the wonderful place it is.
“Excitement is already building for our 2024 celebration, and I would highly recommend visitors pop by the wide range of independent stores in the city to do some Christmas shopping as they make their way around the exciting activities taking place across the city.”
The team behind the festival are continuing to embrace sustainability as Gill Robb, Events Manager at Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council explains.
She said: “Our famous, must-see light show, running on the evenings of Friday, November 29 and Saturday, November 30, will switch to a more sustainable power source this year, whilst park and ride facilities will also be available on Saturday.
“We’ve also tried to limit as many single use plastics as possible with stallholders switching to compostable plates, glasses and cutlery, and abiding by our complete ban on plastic bags.”
For more information and to book tickets for special events head to visitarmagh.com.
