Santa on Tour hits Armagh, Portadown, Banbridge and more
Thousands of families are expected to gather to enjoy festive favourites, live performances, and the much-anticipated Christmas light switch-ons at Santa on Tour 2026, visiting Armagh, Portadown, Banbridge and more.
The most wonderful time of the year is just around the corner! Santa on Tour is hitting the road once again across the Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough, bringing a dazzling programme of entertainment, glittering lights, and festive community spirit to local towns and villages.
Beginning his journey in Brownlow on Wednesday 18 November, Santa will swap his traditional sleigh for his famous red bus to tour the borough. Thousands of families are expected to gather to enjoy festive favourites, live performances, and the much-anticipated Christmas light switch-ons.
What to Expect at Every Stop
Live Entertainment: Enjoy performances from local schools, community groups, and talented artists, alongside cheerful walkabout characters.
Festive Activity Zone: Kids can enjoy face painting, seasonal crafts, meet Santa in his grotto, and listen to a heartwarming Christmas story with Mrs Claus.
Artisan Food & Craft Markets: Running alongside town centre switch-ons, offering unique gifts, holiday treats, and a chance to support local makers and producers.
Santa on Tour 2026 Schedule
Date Location Time
Wed 18 Nov Brownlow 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Thurs 19 Nov Lurgan 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Fri 20 Nov Portadown 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Fri 20 Nov Markethill 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm
Sat 21 Nov Dromore 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Wed 25 Nov Richhill 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Thurs 26 Nov Donaghcloney 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Fri 27 Nov Banbridge 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Fri 27 Nov Tandragee (Tayto Courtyard) 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Sat 28 Nov Rathfriland 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Sun 29 Nov Armagh (Georgian Weekend) 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Thurs 3 Dec Keady 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Fri 4 Dec Waringstown 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Armagh Georgian Festival (From 26 November): Armagh transforms into a nostalgic winter wonderland featuring the spectacular animated projection, the Christmas Lightshow. Tickets are on sale now and expected to sell out fast!
Relaxed Christmas Sessions: Held at the Bleary Business and Community Centre, these inclusive, calm sessions are tailored for children with autism and special educational needs (SEN). Free tickets become available to book on Friday 20 November.
Free Parking & Shop Local: Enjoy free parking in all council-owned off-street car parks every Saturday in December and on official light switch-on days. Residents are encouraged to support local retailers and explore the Shop ABC Gift Card as a flexible holiday gifting option.
Wrap up warm, bring the family along, and make Christmas 2026 unforgettable! For full event details and updates, visit the official Santa on Tour ABC Website.