Christmas shopping for a great cause as Ballymena Hospice Fair returns
Tuesday 3 November 2026
Christmas shoppers searching for something a little different this festive season can discover a wonderful selection of handmade gifts, local crafts and seasonal treats when the annual Northern Ireland Hospice Christmas Fair returns to Ballymena next week.
Organised by Ballymena Northern Ireland Hospice Support Group, the popular fundraising event takes place at Tullyglass House Hotel on Wednesday 11 November, bringing together 33 independent traders for a day of festive shopping in support of a much-loved charity.
From handcrafted jewellery and artwork to candles, decorations and delicious treats, the fair offers an opportunity to get ahead with Christmas shopping while supporting independent businesses and a cause that makes a real difference to families across Northern Ireland.
A Christmas shopping experience with a difference
Running from 11am until 7pm, the fair gives visitors plenty of time to browse the stalls, discover unusual presents and enjoy a little early Christmas cheer.
Whether you're looking for a thoughtful gift for someone special, something handmade that cannot easily be found on the high street, or simply fancy a festive day out with friends, there will be plenty to explore.
Among those taking part are Belfast Candle Company, Wee Cat Glass Art, Rose and Bumble Handcrafted, Lauren Kelso Illustrator, Vera McCullough Jewellery, Galgorm Melts and Rachel's Stone Art.
Food and confectionery businesses will also be represented, including Pollocks' Pickles & Preserves, Baked in Belfast, Granny Shaws Confections and Annie's Delights.
Meet the independent traders
The organisers have announced a varied line-up of 33 traders for this year's fair, showcasing the creativity and talents of independent businesses.
The participating traders include:
• Stitched Stuff
• Rose and Bumble Handcrafted
• Wee Cat Glass Art
• Glance Pics
• Rock Island Crafts NI
• Pollocks' Pickles & Preserves
• Belfast Candle Company
• The Little Handmade Shop
• Cloud Wine
• Bellas pot people
• All Good Inc
• Baked in Belfast
• GRAIN & GLORY
• Cyberprint
• Rachel's Stone Art
• Kountry konnections
• Lauren Kelso Illustrator
• Galgorm Melts
• Granny Shaws Confections
• The Happy Hooker
• Karen Acheson Magnetix
• Vera McCullough Jewellery
• Blueangeldesignsuk
• The Yarn and Craft Emporium Whiteabbey
• Sams Granny
• CraftyTreasures2
• Kennedy Bacon
• Flossy Treats
• Quirky Rainbows
• Kraft Creations NI
• Annie's Delights
• Ruby’s Deco
• SherylNewellArt
With such a varied selection under one roof, shoppers can take their time exploring the stalls, meeting independent traders and finding gifts with a more personal touch.
Shopping that makes a difference
While the fair promises plenty of festive inspiration, there is an important reason behind the event.
Northern Ireland Hospice provides specialist palliative care and support for people living with life-limiting illnesses, alongside care and support for their families.
Community fundraising events such as the Christmas Fair help raise vital support for the charity's work, bringing people together to make a positive difference.
Visitors can also purchase raffle tickets at the door, providing another opportunity to contribute to the fundraising effort.
Everything you need to know
The Christmas Fair is open throughout the day, making it easy to call in for a browse, meet friends or enjoy an afternoon of festive shopping.
• Event: Northern Ireland Hospice Christmas Fair
• Organiser: Ballymena Northern Ireland Hospice Support Group
• Date: Wednesday 11 November 2026
• Time: 11am–7pm
• Venue: Tullyglass House Hotel, Ballymena
• Admission: £5 per person, payable at the door
• Raffle: Tickets available to purchase at the door
With Christmas approaching, the fair offers a lovely opportunity to tick a few names off the gift list while discovering the talent and creativity of independent traders.
And perhaps the best reason to go along is that, beyond the gifts and festive atmosphere, every visitor will be helping support an organisation that provides care and comfort to people and families when they need it most.
