Victoria Square was transformed into a winter wonderland for its Christmas Lights switch-on celebration at the weekend, bringing the centre of Belfast to life with festive cheer and sparkling lights.On Saturday 8 November, Santa was joined by Peter Corry and friends for a rousing bespoke performance of ‘The Victoria Square Express’ inspired by the centre’s new Christmas grotto theme for 2025.Acting as the conductor of the VS Express bound for the North Pole, Peter Corry led Santa and his elves, Ballerinas Sugar and Plum, and children from the Belfast School of Performing Arts in song, leading up to the highly anticipated countdown, which illuminated Victoria Square under its iconic glass dome, and signalling the start of Christmas in the city.The festivities continued into a tree-mendous weekend of live performances, music, roaming entertainers, and the return of the popular Christmas Fayre, offering the sights, smells and sounds of the season with local makers and artisan treats.Brand new for 2025, Victoria Square is proud to present The Victoria Square Express – a unique and immersive Christmas Grotto experience unlike any other.
Guests will be ‘transported’ to a snowy Christmas village aboard the magical train, where they can explore Santa’s Village Stores, meet some of his trusty reindeer – including one that sings – and step inside the Snow Globe Snug, before finally meeting the man himself.
The Victoria Square Express runs weekends throughout November, Friday to Sunday in December, plus daily from 22–24 December. Pre-booking is essential at www.victoriasquare.com.The Christmas Fayre returns on selected dates throughout the season, and late-night opening kicks off on 8 December, with stores open until 9pm on weekdays through to 23 December, giving shoppers extra time to find those perfect gifts.
Commenting ahead of the light switch-on, Michelle Greeves, Centre Manager at Victoria Square, said: “Christmas is always a magical time at Victoria Square, but this year we’re taking it to a whole new level. The Victoria Square Express is an immersive festive journey that captures the wonder and excitement of the season for children and adults alike.”
To find out more about Victoria Square’s festive entertainment, opening hours and grotto bookings, visit www.victoriasquare.com/christmas
