Ballymena town centre enjoyed a vibrant and successful festive season, with a packed programme of activity creating a real buzz throughout December and attracting visitors from across the borough and beyond.
From live entertainment and family-friendly events to charitable initiatives and festive surprises, the town centre was alive with activity as residents and visitors chose Ballymena to shop, dine and prepare for Christmas.
Highlights included a popular Downtown Radio roadshow and Spin to Win event, which saw hundreds of prizes given away and drew strong crowds into the town centre. The annual Santa Rally, organised by the Ulster Traction Engine Club of Ulster, also brought fantastic colour and atmosphere to Ballymena, with festive participants filling the streets and adding to an already lively December.
Ballymena Business Improvement District delivered over one hundred gifts to local children through Digg Deep for Kids, while also supporting fundraising efforts for Ballymena NI Hospice, helping to raise vital funds during the festive period.
Adding to the excitement were two very busy Ballymena elves popping up across the town centre spreading Christmas cheer, alongside visits from Santa, the Grinch and some mischievous festive Minions. Treats, candy canes and surprise moments helped create a fun and welcoming environment for families throughout December.
Businesses reported strong footfall across the festive period, with Ballymena BID speaking to many visitors who had travelled from near and far to enjoy the town’s Christmas offering. The atmosphere throughout December reflected a town centre that was busy, welcoming and full of festive spirit.
Emma McCrea, Ballymena BID Manager, said:
“We would like to sincerely thank everyone who supported the festive programme, chose Ballymena to shop and dine, and purchased a Ballymena Gift Card during the Christmas period. That support makes a real difference to our town centre and will continue to benefit local businesses well into the new year.”
The Ballymena Gift Card also played a key role throughout the festive season, offering a flexible local gifting option while helping to keep spending within the town centre.
Delivered by Ballymena Business Improvement District, the festive programme forms part of ongoing efforts to support local businesses, enhance the town centre experience and encourage residents and visitors to choose Ballymena. As Ballymena BID prepares to enter its third term, the team is looking forward to delivering a strong programme of projects and activity for the 2026–27 year in support of the town centre.
