Santa makes a splash in Donaghadee as Christmas Market get’s underway 

21st November 2025

The magic of Christmas will return to Donaghadee on Saturday 6 December, when Santa Claus makes his grand arrival in the harbour aboard the RNLI lifeboat at 3pm. He’ll be greeted by the Mayor Councillor Gillian McCollum before leading a joyful parade through the town to his grotto in the Methodist Church Hall, where the Christmas Market will also be taking place.

Children will have the chance to meet Santa from 3.30pm, while families enjoy a festive afternoon filled with music, market stalls, and plenty of Christmas cheer.

The event promises fun for all ages, celebrating the spirit of the season and bringing the community together in true Donaghadee style.

So mark your calendars, wrap up warm, and come along to welcome Santa as he arrives in Donaghadee for this much-loved festive tradition.

Santa will make his way to the Grotto in Methodist Church, Moat St and families can enjoy a packed Christmas Market in the car park behind the church off Church Lane. 

There will be 30+ stalls selling local crafts and gifts, festive treats and surprises. 

And the family-friendly town means ALL the family are welcome including dogs. We will have a professional photographer taking photos of your best friends with donations welcomed for work at the cherished Barn Animal Rescue. 

Christmas in Donaghadee .. the town with heart and harbour.

Find out more via the organisers, Donaghadee Community Development Association.