Santa on Tour will return to Armagh in November, bringing festive entertainment, Christmas markets and family activities to towns and villages across the Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough.
The famous red bus will arrive in Armagh on Sunday 29 November, from 1pm to 4pm, as part of the city’s Georgian Weekend celebrations. The event is one of several stops on a tour expected to draw thousands of people for Christmas light switch-ons, performances and family fun.
What to expect in Armagh
Visitors can expect local school, community group and artist performances, festive walkabout characters, face painting, seasonal crafts and a festive activity zone for children. Santa’s grotto and a Christmas story with Mrs Claus will also form part of the programme.
Artisan Food and Craft Markets will accompany town-centre switch-on events across the borough. The markets will give visitors the opportunity to shop locally, find gifts from local makers and producers, and enjoy festive food and treats.
In Armagh, the Georgian Festival will begin on Thursday 26 November, turning the city into a winter-themed destination with family activities, Christmas nostalgia and seasonal entertainment. The Christmas Lightshow will be a central attraction, using animated projection to bring the city centre to life. Tickets are already on sale and the council says demand is expected to be high.
Inclusive sessions and festive travel
Relaxed Christmas Sessions will also return at Bleary Business and Community Centre. The sessions are designed for children with autism and special educational needs, offering a calmer and supportive setting in which to enjoy Christmas activities. Tickets are free and will be available to book from Friday 20 November.
Free parking will be available in council-owned off-street car parks every Saturday in December, as well as on Christmas light switch-on days across the borough. Residents and visitors are being encouraged to support local retailers, with the Shop ABC Gift Card available to spend at participating businesses.
Lord Mayor Councillor Mary O’Dowd said: “Santa on Tour has become one of the highlights of the festive calendar and we’re delighted to see it return for another year. The programme brings communities together, supports our local businesses and creates magical moments for families right across the borough. Whether you’re watching the lights switch on, meeting Santa, enjoying the entertainment or picking up gifts from our local traders, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.”
She added: “I would encourage residents and visitors to wrap up warm, come along and join us as we celebrate the season and make Christmas 2026 a truly memorable one.”
Santa on Tour 2026 schedule
- Brownlow: Wednesday 18 November, 4pm to 5.30pm
- Lurgan: Thursday 19 November, 6.30pm to 8.30pm
- Portadown: Friday 20 November, 6.30pm to 8.30pm
- Markethill: Friday 20 November, 6.30pm to 8pm
- Dromore: Saturday 21 November, 4pm to 7pm
- Richhill: Wednesday 25 November, 6.30pm to 8.30pm
- Donaghcloney: Thursday 26 November, 6.30pm to 8.30pm
- Banbridge: Friday 27 November, 6pm to 8.30pm
- Tandragee, Tayto Courtyard: Friday 27 November, 6.30pm to 8.30pm
- Rathfriland: Saturday 28 November, 6pm to 8pm
- Armagh, Georgian Weekend: Sunday 29 November, 1pm to 4pm
- Keady: Thursday 3 December, 6pm to 8.30pm
- Waringstown: Friday 4 December, 6pm to 7.30pm
Further event information and festive updates are available at www.santaontourabc.com and through the event’s social media channels.