Belfast City Council has distributed £85,000 in funding to support a diverse programme of over 90 festive events across the city's neighbourhoods.

The initiative saw five separate grants of £17,000 allocated to lead organisations in North, South, East, and West Belfast, as well as the Greater Shankill area.

The funding was designed to facilitate activities for families, young children, and older residents. In the north of the city, initiatives included Santa's grottos, healthy eating packs, and wreath-making workshops, alongside "hugs in a mug" hampers for the elderly. Meanwhile, West Belfast utilized the support for family fun days, sensory-friendly events for children with additional needs, and celebrations at Falls Park and Páirc Nua Chollan. In South Belfast, the focus remained on strengthening community bonds through festive dinners for older people, inter-generational projects, and Christmas light switch-on ceremonies. East Belfast saw ten community groups collaborate on lantern parades, carol singing, and parties aimed at reducing social isolation. Additionally, the Greater Shankill Partnership hosted its annual Winter Festival, which included a local market, live music, and a parade.

Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Tracy Kelly, praised the impact of the local efforts: "Communities and families are at the heart of Christmas, and I'm pleased we have been able to support these local events which bring people together, including those who most need our support at this time of year.

"I've been out and about over the last few weeks visiting many of these events and they do the heart good to see the community spirit in every neighbourhood, where people are determined to look out for their neighbours and celebrate the season together.

"A big well done to all event organisers, including our own council staff who also go the extra mile in our own community venues at Christmas to ensure everyone is included and involved."