Experience the magic of Christmas in Ballymena town centre, where the festive spirit comes alive every Saturday from 30th November to 21st December!
With a wonderful mix of entertainment, delicious food, and unique shopping opportunities, Ballymena is the perfect place to soak up the Christmas atmosphere this season.
Stroll through the streets and discover an amazing variety of treasure troves, offering everything from bespoke gifts to stylish festive must-haves.
Ballymena’s vibrant shopping scene boasts a fantastic combination of independent boutiques and high street favourites, all conveniently nestled across the town’s charming streets and two bustling shopping centres. Whether you’re searching for the perfect present or looking to treat yourself to a touch of seasonal style, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
When it’s time to take a break, indulge in the welcoming food scene, where cosy cafés, tempting treats, and hearty meals are waiting to refuel your festive fun.
Here’s what’s happening on our festive Saturdays:
Menacing Festive Minions
Saturday, 30th November
Kickstart the festivities with some Minion-inspired mayhem!
From 1pm to 3pm, these mischievous yellow characters will be causing hilarious havoc around the town centre.
Can you spot them? Bring the family along and snap some fun photos with these cheeky festive troublemakers!
Jingle Day
Saturday, 7th December
Make your way to Ballymena for Jingle Day, the town’s much-loved annual fundraiser in support of the Children’s Hospice.
With live entertainment, face painting, balloon modelling, and a host of festive characters, it’s a fantastic day out for all ages – and all for a great cause.
Downtown Christmas Roadshow / Santa Rally
Saturday, 14th December
Prepare for a day packed with excitement as the Downtown Christmas Roadshow comes to Ballymena from 12pm to 3pm. Expect festive friends, fun giveaways, and face painting galore.
The highlight of the day: At 6pm, the spectacular Santa Rally will make its way through the town centre, featuring hundreds of Santa's travelling on tractors, vintage cars, and more. It’s a truly magical and unique event!
Festive Finale on the Bandstand
Saturday, 21st December
End the festive celebrations on a high note with the Festive Finale on the Bandstand, running from 11am to 2pm. This day is dedicated to celebrating local talent, with live performances in association with the Ballymena School of Music.
Gather around Ballymena's bandstand to enjoy the music and soak up the wonderful Christmas atmosphere. We will also have festive characters with treats for the kiddies.
Plan Your Visit
Ballymena Town Centre has everything you need for the perfect Christmas outing: delicious food, unique shops, and family-friendly entertainment. Whether you’re ticking off your Christmas shopping, enjoying quality time with loved ones, or simply soaking in the festive vibe, Ballymena is the ideal destination this holiday season.
Mark your calendars and join us for these unmissable Saturdays in Ballymena. Let’s make this Christmas magical together! Follow Ballymena Means for updates and info on everything that’s happening and hot in Ballymena this Christmas.