Dating back to the end of the 19th century, St. George’s Market has long played a major role in the traditions of Belfast. A lively ambiance accompanies the fresh local produce and handicrafts decorating the stalls. Meet some of the 300 traders, musicians and artists to get an idea of the local culture.
Visit the Friday Variety Market, a weekly morning bazaar with about 250 stalls selling fresh food. The fish section is particularly large and impressive. The following day is the Saturday City Food, Craft and Garden Market. Electrify your taste buds with some of the international cuisine offered. Listen to live jazz or flamenco performances in the market. Purchase plants, flowers and intriguing crafts.
Attend the Sunday Food, Craft and Antique Market for its variety of artworks and handicrafts. Purchase scented candles, jewelry, antiques and souvenirs. Peruse the clothes section for bargains.
In addition to the daily markets, many other events take place here. Attend a food festival, art exhibit or concert. Popular artists such as Duffy, Deep Purple and Kasabian have played inside the market building.
A street market has occupied this site since the 17th century, although the structure itself was built later in 1890. Learn how the city used it during World War II as an emergency mortuary, when hundreds of bodies were brought here in an attempt to identify them. After falling into disrepair in the 1980s, the building was fully renovated and finally reopened in 1997.
The main three markets take place from Friday to Sunday. The first two close in the early afternoon, but the Sunday market stays open longer. Use the free Wi-Fi available on site.
St. George’s Market is near the Belfast Waterfront in the center of the city. It is just a few blocks southwest of the River Lagan and a 10-minute walk east of Belfast City Hall. Several multi-story parking lots, such as Victoria Square, are nearby.
