Belfast Spring Fair to bring ‘Down the Rabbit Hole’ magic to Malone House this April
- Love Ballymena
- Apr 5
- 3 min read
Alice in Wonderland and the Mad Hatter (Hannah and Arthur Nelson) as they help launch this year’s Spring Fair at Malone House.
Belfast’s popular Spring Fair is set to return later this month, with families invited to step “down the rabbit hole” for a free Alice in Wonderland-themed celebration at Malone House and Barnett Demesne.
The much-loved annual event, organised by Belfast City Council, will take place on Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 April 2026, running from 1.30pm until 5.30pm on both days, bringing two afternoons of music, colour and family entertainment to one of the city’s most scenic parkland settings.
This year’s fair promises a whimsical twist, with the grounds of Malone House and Barnett Demesne transformed into an enchanting Wonderland-inspired experience designed to celebrate the arrival of spring.
Wonderland theme brings family fun to Belfast
Building on its reputation as one of the city’s best-attended seasonal family events, the 2026 Spring Fair will feature a wide range of attractions for visitors of all ages.
Among the highlights are the Spring Flower Show, live music and entertainment, themed “curious characters”, farmyard animals, food and craft stalls, floral art displays, circus skills workshops and a dedicated sports zone.
The event’s Alice in Wonderland theme is expected to add an extra layer of visual spectacle and imagination, with organisers promising a setting inspired by the whimsical world of Lewis Carroll’s classic tale.
Families visiting across the weekend can expect the historic house and surrounding grounds to once again become a vibrant hub of seasonal activity, combining outdoor fun with arts, horticulture and performance.
Lord Mayor launches event
Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Tracy Kelly, pictured with Alice in Wonderland and the Mad Hatter (Hannah and Arthur Nelson) as they help launch this year’s Spring Fair at Malone House.
Launching the event at Barnett Demesne, the Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Tracy Kelly, said the fair remains a standout occasion in the city’s annual events calendar.
She said:
“Our annual free Spring Fair is always a highlight in Belfast’s event calendar, and this year’s Alice in Wonderland theme adds an extra layer of magic and imagination.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity for families and friends to visit our beautiful Malone House, enjoy the gardens and experience everything from beautiful blooms to lively entertainment.”
The remarks underline the council’s continued focus on accessible, free city events aimed at bringing families and communities together during the spring season.
Travel and parking arrangements
Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Tracy Kelly, pictured with Alice in Wonderland and the Mad Hatter (Hannah and Arthur Nelson) as they help launch this year’s Spring Fair at Malone House.
Visitors planning to attend are being advised that there will be no parking available at Malone House and Barnett Demesne during the Spring Fair.
Instead, a free park and ride service will operate from Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park across both days.
The first shuttle bus will depart Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park at 1pm, with the final return bus leaving Barnett Demesne at 5.45pm.
For those travelling from the city centre, public transport options are also available through Translink.
On Saturday, visitors can use Metro Bus 8A or 8B from Donegall Square East, while on Sunday the Metro 8A service will run every 30 minutes.
Passengers are advised to check Translink’s latest timetable information before travelling.
Important visitor information
Organisers have also confirmed that only assistance dogs will be permitted into the event.
With the event free to attend and packed with attractions, the Spring Fair is expected to once again draw large crowds from across Belfast and further afield.
Further details are available from Belfast City Council.
At a glance:
Belfast Spring Fair takes place on Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 April 2026
Event runs from 1.30pm to 5.30pm on both days
Venue: Malone House and Barnett Demesne
This year’s theme is Alice in Wonderland
Free family attractions include flower show, live entertainment, stalls and workshops
Free park and ride available from Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park
No parking at the event site
Only assistance dogs permitted
