It may still only be summer but for artisan designers and canny shoppers now is the time to think ahead and make a date in your diary for those all-important Christmas fairs.
Armagh City Hotel is one of the premium hospitality spots during the festive season and the range of festivities kicks off in earnest with its fair on Sunday, November 13 from 11am-4pm.
The hotel will be transformed into a hub of local bakers, crafters, designers and more, selling unique and handcrafted gifts and services.
It’s the ideal showcase event for craftspeople to display their wares while dedicated Christmas shoppers are sure to find some original and creative gifts.
This year, the hotel is going all out to make the festive season one to remember.
With party nights, lunches, dinners and overnight stays, it’s the perfect way to unwind and let someone else do the hard work.
The party nights will run on consecutive Friday and Saturday nights, December 9, 10, 16 and 17, with a festive set dinner menu, live music by Marty Fay and Justin McGurk followed by a DJ.
When booking the nights, there is one free place per 25 attendees, meaning the 26th person goes free.
And when booking six or more bedrooms, the organiser will also get free overnight accommodation and breakfast for up to two people sharing.
There are also special party night accommodation rates, which include full breakfast and use of the health and fitness club.
However, there is a limited number of rooms at this price, so it is advised to book early.
Meanwhile, Christmas lunches and dinners will be available every Thursday and Friday in December in the Friary Restaurant.
Or if festive afternoon tea is more up your street, enjoy a selection of finger sandwiches and seasonal pastries – once again served throughout December.
To coincide with Armagh City’s Georgian Day, relax and enjoy Georgian Afternoon Tea on Saturday, November 26 from 2-5pm, with a glass of mulled wine on arrival and a soft drink for children along with live entertainment.
For senior citizens, the festive, three-course lunch with tea and coffee always proves popular. This year it’s on Tuesday, December 13 with music from Ace Hi.
And for those who want to usher in the New Year in style, gourmet dinner is available on New Year’s Eve with a glass of bubbly and live entertainment from Jinx in The Callan Lounge.
Special accommodation rates are also available for New Year’s Eve guests which include brunch the next morning and use of the health and fitness club.
Of course, no New Year’s Eve would be complete without Bingo Loco featuring DJs playing the best of 90s/00 music, confetti showers, dance-offs, lip sync battles, and prizes ranging from international holidays to lawnmowers. Tickets will go on sale via the Bingo Loco Website
To find out more or make a booking, telephone +44 (0)28 3751 8888.
For Christmas Fair enquiries contact Cheryl at cpatterson@armaghcityhotel.
For party night enquiries email conference@armaghcityhotel.com and for restaurant, lunch and dinners contact info@armaghcityhotel.com
