Belfast City Council has launched a city-wide Christmas campaign inviting residents, businesses and communities to explore the people, places and experiences behind the festive season.

Supported by organisations across the city, Unwrap Belfast at Christmas aims to promote Belfast as a welcoming and inclusive destination. It will highlight family activities, live music, independent businesses, lesser-known attractions and community figures.

The programme begins with the annual Christmas lights switch-on on Saturday 14 November, starting at 6.30pm. Gates open at 6pm.

Belfast Christmas Market opens at City Hall at noon on Saturday, while Santa's arrival parade also begins at noon and travels through the city centre to CastleCourt. On Sunday, the sold-out Belfast City 5K Fun Run leaves City Hall at 9am. Santa's post office, run by Belfast One BID, opens at 2 Royal Avenue from 10am to 5pm.

The campaign builds on cooperation between organisations during Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, bringing partners together to promote Belfast during the festive period.

Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Róis-Máire Donnelly, said: "With festive preparations now well underway across the city and the Christmas tree taking pride of place at City Hall, Belfast is inviting everyone to unwrap what makes the city so special at this time of year.

"Tríd an fheachtas seo, ba mhaith linn go mbainfidh an méid daoine agus is féidir sult as áilleacht, cairdiúlacht agus atmaisféar na cathrach ag am speisialta seo den bhliain, agus go gcruthóidh siad cuimhní cinn le chéile. Bí linn agus bí ag tacú lenár ngnólachtaí áitiúla, bain sult as an chlár imeachtaí iontach agus na heispéireas a mbeidh ar fáil, agus déan ceiliúradh ar mhuintir fháilteach Bhéal Feirste. "Through this campaign, we want as many people as possible to enjoy the colour, warmth and atmosphere of our city and create memories together. Come in and support our local businesses, enjoy the fantastic programme of events and experiences on offer, and celebrate the people who help to make Belfast such a welcoming place.

"Whether you've lived here all your life, or you're visiting Belfast city centre for the first time in a long time, there is always something new waiting to be discovered, or a story to celebrate which highlights the warmth and compassion our city is famous for."

After the lights switch-on, the campaign will share stories from traders, artists, volunteers, hospitality, retail and transport workers, musicians, community groups and residents. It will also promote events, family activities, experiences and recommendations from people who know the city.

People will be encouraged to share their own memories and favourite Belfast Christmas experiences. The council will use its social media channels to feature generosity, volunteering and community spirit across the city.

Partners including the three Business Improvement Districts, Translink, the Police Service of Northern Ireland and Belfast Chamber will use #UnwrapBelfast to recommend independent businesses, hidden gems and new experiences.

Practical information will also be available for those planning a visit, including itineraries, transport details, late-night shopping hours and Christmas activities across Belfast.

A separate Make It a Belfast Christmas marketing campaign will target audiences across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. Led by Visit Belfast and part-funded by the council, it will promote the city's shops, events and hospitality to day visitors and those considering an overnight stay.

Residents and businesses can find out what is on and take part at belfastcity.gov.uk/Christmas, follow @belfastcitycouncil on Facebook and Instagram, and use #UnwrapBelfast.