Tourism NI supports “atmospheric” Georgian Festival as Armagh steps back in time

Emily Magee, Events Development Manager at Tourism NI (centre), pictured with Gill Robb, Tourism Events and Animation Manager at Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council and Sheila Rooney, Georgian Living History Character.

Tourism Northern Ireland has announced its support for this year’s Georgian Festival in Armagh, as the historic city prepares to step back in time for one of Northern Ireland’s most atmospheric festive celebrations.

Running from 27–30 November, the annual event will bring Armagh’s Georgian heritage to life with an immersive programme of artisan markets, live music, themed tours, and family-friendly entertainment, all capturing the spirit of Christmas as it may have been 250 years ago.

The festival celebrates the legacy of Archbishop Richard Robinson, the visionary figure who shaped much of the city’s Georgian architecture and character.

Highlights this year include festive light shows at Market House, mock trials at Armagh Courthouse, a Highwayman’s Banquet at the Archbishop’s Palace, and an ‘Evening at the Georgian Opera’ in the Archbishop’s Chapel.

The centrepiece of the celebration will be Georgian Day on Saturday 29 November, when the city transforms into a bustling 18th-century marketplace.

It is estimated that the event will attract around 30,000 visitors, with 10% travelling from outside Northern Ireland. Around 1,000 participants will take part in the festivities, generating approximately 800 bednights across local accommodation providers and £500,000 for the local economy.

The Georgian Festival is one of 14 major events to receive funding through Tourism NI’s International Tourism Events Fund (ITEF) — a scheme designed to support large-scale cultural events that enhance Northern Ireland’s profile on the international stage.

Emily Magee, Events Development Manager at Tourism NI, said:

“Tourism Northern Ireland is delighted to welcome the Georgian Festival to the International Tourism Events Funding Programme for the first time.

“This much-loved event continues to grow, drawing thousands of visitors and raising Armagh’s profile at the heart of this historic landscape.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity to showcase the city’s unique heritage, while supporting regional and seasonal tourism.”

Gill Robb, Tourism Events and Animation Manager at Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, said:

“Excitement is building as we prepare to welcome visitors to this year’s Armagh Georgian Festival, one of Northern Ireland’s most distinctive and atmospheric festive events.

“Now in its 21st year, the festival continues to grow, offering a unique opportunity to experience the sights and stories of 18th-century Armagh.

“Thanks to support from Tourism NI’s International Events Fund, we’ve expanded the programme to include the Georgian Gourmet Food Tour, a performance by Northern Ireland Opera, an extended Sunday schedule, and more.

“Georgian Day on Saturday 29 November, featuring over 100 stalls in Northern Ireland’s largest festive artisan market, remains a major draw for visitors and a vital platform for local makers and producers.

“This investment helps us attract new audiences, extend visitor stays, and support the local economy. It’s a magical weekend, and we look forward to sharing the city’s Georgian charm with visitors from near and far.”

With its blend of history, culture, and festive cheer, the Armagh Georgian Festival continues to be a cornerstone of Northern Ireland’s winter events calendar — offering visitors a chance to experience Christmas with a touch of 18th-century magic.