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The incredibly popular Newry Christmas Market will return to the city on 19 November complete with a Victorian Winterscape theme, a skating rink at the Quays Shopping Centre and a new Santa ‘Toy Box’ Experience.
The market will open on the same day as Newry’s Christmas Lights Switch-On at Newry Market in John Mitchel Place and will operate from Thursday to Sunday until 20 December 2026. This year’s event will raise money for two local charities, Women’s Aid Armagh Down and The Ernie Campbell Christmas Toys & Homeless Appeal.
The return follows its inaugural year in 2025 that welcomed more than 65,000 visitors to Newry city centre. Organised by Room Angelz, the market will have more stalls, new family experiences, entertainment and festive workshops this time. The Variety Market will be transformed with twinkling lights, decorated archways, festive garlands and seasonal décor.
Noelle Markey, founder of Newry Christmas Market and owner of Room Angelz, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to be bringing Newry Christmas Market back following such an incredible first year, with an even bigger, more ambitious focus. Welcoming more than 65,000 visitors last year demonstrated just how much people value having a high-quality festive experience right here in Newry City Centre.”
At the Santa ‘Toy Box’ Experience, children can meet Santa and his elves at a hand made, North Pole style Toy Box home in its own space in the market. They will play Santa games with the elves, share a personalised moment with Santa and Mrs Claus, and receive a special Christmas gift. Parents and guardians will be admitted free of charge, with a maximum of two adults per booked visit. Anyone booking the experience can also enter competitions for festive prizes, including luxury weekend getaways. A Skate & Santa Toy Box package booking link will go live on socials this weekend.
Visitors to the market in Newry can browse dozens of stalls selling street food, artisan crafts, gifts, festive treats and locally made products. Local choirs, bands, schools and community groups will perform during the five-week programme. There will also be Christmas movie nights, roaming characters and special festive guests, along with a food court serving street food, international cuisine and seasonal favourites such as hot chocolate and mulled drinks. A full licensed bar will operate during the market.
Bookable festive workshops will include jewellery-making, candle-making and wreath-making sessions. Local schools can take part in organised visits and workshops during weekday sessions.
All visitors will have the chance to donate to Women’s Aid Armagh Down and the Ernie Campbell Christmas Toys & Homeless Appeal, with the money raised split between the two. Admission to the market is free, but all attendees are being asked to make a donation to both charities.
Eileen Murphy, Chief Executive of Women’s Aid Armagh Down, said: “The funds raised will make a real and immediate difference to local women and children affected by domestic abuse, helping us to provide the specialist support and practical help they need at what can be one of the most difficult times in their lives.”
Ernie Campbell, organiser of the Christmas Toys & Homeless Appeal, said: “I am delighted that this years Christmas Market will help fundraise to support our work with individuals and families who are struggling with Christmas and need some kindness.” He added that people can drop off key items at the market for the appeal, especially gifts for newborn to 13 year olds.
Ms Markey said the organisers were looking forward to “welcoming visitors from across the island of Ireland and helping create another magical Christmas for the City of Newry whilst supporting the local economy during this important festive trading period.”
The market continues to receive support from local partners and businesses, including Newry Credit Union, DSD Audio Visual, Revive Saunas, Boyds Stores, Lough & Quay Accommodation, Beyond the Branding, Mackle Communications, Art Director, Anne-Marie McAleenan, D&G Security and local radio station IÚR FM. Following the 2025 event, many local businesses reported increased footfall and stronger trading.
Visitors can travel to Newry by train via Dublin, Drogheda and Dundalk, or from Belfast and Portadown with a free bus link to the city centre, just a few minutes walk from the market. Local buses from Translink also serve Newry City Centre throughout the festive period.
The market will open at 4.00pm on 19 November and run weekly to 20 December 2026. Opening times are 12 noon to 9.00pm on Thursday and Friday, 11.00am to 8.00pm on Saturday, and 12 noon to 7.30pm on Sunday. The Santa ‘Toy Box’ Experience and Skating at the Quays can be booked at www.newrychristmasmarket.com, where the festive workshops can also be booked.
Check out the promo video at https://newrychristmasmarket.com/#Experience
