From live music and arts festivals to Christmas celebrations, family shows and local markets — here are 17 dates worth knowing about in Belfast this November.
In date order. Follow each event link for official timings and booking information.
An evening with the creative voices behind some of Northern Ireland’s best-known television, theatre and visual art. Declan Lawn, Lisa McGee and Colin Davidson are among the guests billed for this special Lyric Theatre conversation.
Explore Belfast’s galleries after hours during this free, citywide evening of exhibitions and creative spaces. A good chance to see several galleries in one night without spending anything on admission.
A citywide celebration of the people and places making Belfast a UNESCO City of Music. Expect gigs, conversations and special events spanning a wide range of genres, including the NI Music Prize.
Luail, Ireland’s National Dance Company, brings an ambitious contemporary dance triple bill to the MAC. The programme includes work by choreographers Akram Khan, Oona Doherty and Liz Roche.
A friendly local market with independent growers, food producers and artisan traders. Browse seasonal produce, chat to makers and pick up something from Northern Ireland’s food community.
The Ulster Orchestra celebrates the film music associated with Steven Spielberg, including unforgettable themes from Jaws, E.T., Indiana Jones and more. An evening for film lovers as much as classical-music fans.
One of the biggest nights in the Northern Irish music calendar. Homegrown acts come together for live performances and awards celebrating albums, singles and artists making their mark.
Marking 20 years of Outburst, this festival brings together independent film, theatre, visual art, conversation and performance. Explore the programme to find the events that appeal to you.
The Christmas Market returns to City Hall with seasonal food, gifts, local traders and festive stalls. The market stays open until 22 December, so this is a date to save even if you cannot visit on opening day.
The Lord Mayor and local performers help light up the city for Christmas. This is a free but ticketed event, so anyone planning to go should secure a ticket in advance rather than just turn up.
A festive five-kilometre event through Belfast city centre, welcoming runners, joggers and walkers of different abilities. Even if you are not taking part, it promises a lively atmosphere around the start and finish.
A pop-up retro arcade filled with classic cabinets, pinball machines and console games. Sessions are ticketed and include a family-friendly Sunday slot; all the games are set to free play once you are inside.
St George’s Market opens after dark for two evenings of independent traders, gifts, seasonal food and live entertainment. Browse more than 100 stalls in a festive version of one of Belfast’s best-loved buildings.
A single artwork from the Ulster Museum collection goes on display at Belfast School of Art as a seasonal gift to the city. The work is revealed closer to opening, which makes this one worth keeping an eye on.
Four US college ice-hockey teams compete across two days in Belfast for the Belpot Trophy. A lively international sporting occasion, with four matches over the Thanksgiving weekend.
Browse handmade crafts and gifts from local artists, makers and independent businesses in the setting of Belfast Castle. A good opportunity to explore the castle grounds at the same time.
The Grand Opera House’s Christmas pantomime brings Ariel and friends to the stage with big costumes, music, comedy and plenty of Belfast panto tradition, including May McFettridge.
Last reviewed 24 October 2026. Details, availability and prices may change. Check organisers’ official event pages before visiting. Belfast Brief is an independent events guide, not a ticket seller.