Christmas Evenings at the Ulster Folk Museum
Visitors wander through cobbled streets and cottages decorated with wreaths, twinkling lights, and glowing braziers. Guests can listen to carol singers, a harpist, and live Ulster Orchestra performances, or settle into the Picture House for silent-era festive films and fireside stories. Activities include traditional willow star crafting, meeting the resident donkeys, and watching heritage makers at work.
What to Expect
Traditional evening festivities featuring crafts, fireside tales, and the Ulster Orchestra.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Organizer
Ulster Folk Museum
Food & Drink
Buy cinnamon toast, roasted nuts and Christmas cake, or purchase mulled wine and hot chocolate in the courtyard.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and anyone who enjoys traditional christmas festivities
Vibe
Nostalgic and festive
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
££
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Adult £17.50; Child £10.90; Under 5 years free; Senior £13.75; Student £15.13 including donation; Family of 3 £37.35; Family of 4 £43.05; Family of 5 £51.10. Member single £8.75; Member Joint £17.50; member family tickets £18.65–£25.55. Green tickets: Adult £14.00; Child £8.70; Senior £11.05; Student £12.16 including donation; Green family tickets £29.85–£40.90. Carer, Accessible Adult and Accessible child tickets are free. Optional 10% donation may be added. – Get tickets
- Hours: Both evenings: 17:00 to 21:00. Ulster Orchestra performances: 30-minute performances at 6pm, 7pm and 8pm on 11th December (string quartet) and 18th December (brass quintet).
- Parking: Parking will be limited. The page recommends public transport and says it gives 20% off admission when visitors select “Green Ticket” while booking and show proof of a valid public transport ticket on arrival. An accessible bus will run between overflow car parking and the museum entrance; visitors are asked not to walk between the overflow car parks in the dark.
- Accessibility: An accessible bus operates between overflow parking and the entrance, and most of the site is wheelchair accessible.
- Pets: Dogs are allowed in outdoor spaces on a short lead but not inside exhibit buildings unless they are assistance dogs.
Tips & Advice
- Book your Christmas Evening ticket in advance, as spaces are limited and on-the-night sales depend on availability.
- Select Green Ticket when booking and bring proof of a valid public transport ticket to claim the public-transport discount.
- Book a separate Santa ticket if you want a Santa visit; it also includes access to Christmas Evenings.
- Wrap up warm and put your phone on silent, as requested for the event.
- Use the accessible bus between overflow parking and the entrance rather than walking between car parks in the dark.
Special Events & Promotions
- Under-5s enter free.
- Members have reduced-price event tickets.
- Visitors travelling by public transport can save on admission with a Green Ticket; proof of a valid ticket is required on arrival.
- Groups of 15 or more receive a discount.
- Visitors with a registered disability and their accompanying helpers or carers enter free.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What can visitors do during the Christmas Evenings?
Explore decorated cottages and cobbled streets, try traditional crafts, watch silent-era Christmas films, listen to fireside stories and meet the donkeys and heritage makers.
Can I buy tickets on the night?
On-the-night tickets are subject to availability, and pre-booking is recommended because spaces are limited.
Is a visit with Santa included?
No. Santa visits require a separate ticket, which also includes access to Christmas Evenings.
What food and drinks are available?
Cinnamon toast, roasted nuts and Christmas cake are available, along with mulled wine and hot chocolate for purchase in the courtyard.
What is different about the two evenings’ orchestra performances?
The Ulster Orchestra performs a string quartet on December 11 and a brass quintet on December 18, with several performances each evening.
More Christmas Events Near Holywood
More Christmas Events near Bangor
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.