Event: Georgian Day & Festival 2024, Armagh
Date: Thursday 28th November - Sunday 1st December 2024
Time: See Below
Location: See Below
Price: See Below
Georgian Day & Festival 2024
Step back in time as the Georgian Festival returns to Armagh. Delve into the Georgian history of Armagh through the buildings, characters and customs of the latter half of the 18th Century. The Georgian Festival will run from Thursday 28th November until Sunday 1st December 2024.
Georgian Day on Saturday 30th November is the highlight of the festival – a day rich in atmosphere where you can hear the clip clop of the horses’ hooves along the Mall, and listen to musicians around the streets. You’ll enjoy the smell of the roasting chestnuts and mulled spices as you wander among the array of craft and food stalls throughout the bustling city centre and on the picturesque setting of The Mall. Make sure to look out for the Georgian characters; the Gentry, the urchins and the gin soaked ladies as they wind their way through the city streets and Mall. The tree-lined Mall will be alive with activity including Horse and Carriage Rides, Stalls, Children’s entertainment, with the ever popular Carousel, festive music and Hot Chestnuts.
The day starts at 12noon where you can browse the amazing Christmas markets across the City Centre and the Mall and at Noon enjoy the spectacle of the Georgian Gentry arriving on the Mall for the day ahead, transported by horse and carriages.
The Hill of Armagh will play its role in welcoming visitors for Georgian Day as the Robinson Library and No 5 Vicars’ Hill, the former Registry, are open to the public welcoming visitors to step back in time. The Library, which was built in 1771 as a public library and is the oldest library in Northern Ireland, and the 1772 Registry, holds precious documents and records where you can learn about Wax Sealing. You can book at tour of the Armagh Observatory, a stunning Georgian building with a continuous history of astronomical research from its beginnings in 1790 to the present day. All these buildings were part of Archbishop Robinson’s legacy to Armagh.
There are ticketed events throughout the festival including “It’s A Holly Jolly Christmas”, our light shows on Friday and Saturday, a Highway Mans Banquet, Walking Tours, Mock Trials in Armagh Courthouse plus a Candlelit Concert in the Archbishop’s Chapel.
Georgian Festival Armagh promises to be a weekend which brings the city’s Georgian history and stories to life, where you can uncover some of our city’s hidden gems and take part in a range of activities and experiences which are not only enjoyable but interpret and explain our city’s Georgian roots.
What’s On…
The Highwayman's Banquet
Date: Friday 29th November
Time: 7.30pm
Location: The Archbishop’s Palace
Price: £75.00 - Book Here
“Highwayman’s Banquet - Stand & Deliver, Rapperees & Rogues, tales & tunes on the Gentlemen of the Road.”
Rest and relax in the safe surroundings of his Lordship’s home for the evening after a long day’s coach travel. Feast heartily on a sparkling three course banquet, sup a glass from the wine cellar as you enjoy tales and tunes dedicated to the Gallant Highwaymen & Rapparees. Pass away the night with good company and with your valuables and monies away from the clutches of the Highway Rogues and Dastardly Footpads, “If male thou art , look to your purse, if female look to thy heart!“
Ticket price includes a drinks reception with canapes and a three course meal paired with wines. Non-alcoholic drink offered.
Not So Gorgeous Georgian Walking Tour
Date: Friday 29th & Saturday 30th November
Time: 6.45pm
Location: from Armagh Gaol, Gaol Square, Armagh BT60 1DH
Price: £10.00 - Book Here
Delve into the underbelly of Georgian society and be amazed, entertained or repulsed! This informative and enjoyable tour will focus on the not so fragrant, not so sober and not so hygienic Georgians! Learn more about some of the unsavoury pastimes of the era along with the range of crimes and subsequent punishments.
Learn more about the stories of Georgian times. Be regaled with stories of how ladies shaved off their eyebrows and replaced them with mouse skin. Learn more about rodents making their nests in the fashionable tall & powdered wigs! Missing teeth were often replaced by false teeth made of clay, walrus tusk or even dead people’s teeth!
The tour will last 90 minutes approx. suitable for ages 12+. Please note starting point for this tour is outside Armagh Gaol and finishes outside Armagh Courthouse.
Georgian Light Show 2024 - It’s A Holly Jolly Christmas
Date: Friday 29th & Saturday 30th November
Time: See Below
Location: Market Street, Armagh
Price: £3.00 - Book Here
Show Times:
Friday 29th November: 6.00pm | 7.00pm | 8.00pm
Saturday 30th November: 5.00pm | 6.00pm | 7.00pm | 8.00pm
Join us for an unmissable experience as the city lights up for Christmas. The dramatic “It’s A Holly Jolly Christmas” light show will transform the Market House, a beautiful Georgian building into a shimmering canvas for images, special effects, and other surprises!
Tickets will be bookable from 10.00am on Tuesday 5th November 2024. All tickets must be booked online and everyone, including all children, must have a valid ticket. Please note that you require a valid email address for downloading tickets. There is a maximum of 6 tickets per booking and there are no exchanges or refunds once booked.
There will be a minimal charge of £3.00 per person for the Light Show. The small charge allows us to continue to offer the Light Show.
Tickets are only available online to this year’s Light Show. You must have either a printed ticket or a ticket on your mobile device. There will not be any tickets available other than online. Tickets are only valid for the show time booked. We will be checking tickets when you arrive – if you have them on a mobile phone screen, we would appreciate if you could have it magnified and the screen as bright as possible. Please do not arrive at the Light Show site without a ticket as you will not be able to gain access.
Should you or anyone in your party have any access or sensory requirements, please book a ticket for the Light Show you wish to attend, then contact us via georgianarmagh@armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk by 19th November, quoting your booking reference and advise us of your particular access or sensory needs. We will endeavour to facilitate your needs as consideration can be given to a limited number.
🟥 ACCESS TO SITE IS VIA MARKET STREET ONLY
ALCOHOL FREE ZONE: The Georgian Festival Light Shows are a family friendly events and alcohol is not permitted, by law, on the event site.
CHILD PROTECTION: All children under the age of 14 must be accompanied by an adult at all times. If your child is missing, please report to the nearest steward who will deal with the situation immediately.
STEWARDS: In the interest of safety for everyone, you are requested to co-operate with stewards & security personnel at all times.
WEATHER CONDITIONS: As this is an outdoor event, please dress accordingly. In the event of wet weather, and for the safety, comfort and viewing of others, we kindly request that umbrellas are not used for the duration of the Light Show – stewards may ask you to comply with this request. We suggest that you wear hats / coats with hoods / ponchos etc.
PARKING: Park and Ride locations: Elim Church, Armagh / Navan Centre / Palace Demesne / Richhill / Portadown. Please use city centre car parks, which are free of charge for Georgian Day. All city centre car parks have accessible parking spaces, no additional accessible spaces will be available for the events. Please see car park map using this link.
PRAMS / PUSHCHAIRS: As Market Square is on a quite steep incline the site isn’t recommended for prams / pushchairs.
Once purchased, your ticket is your property. Armagh Georgian Festival cannot refund its value to you, nor exchange it for any other ticket under any circumstances. Where an event goes ahead, we accept no responsibility for tickets that are unable to be used due to circumstances outside of our control, for example bad weather and transport difficulties.
For any queries, please contact: georgianarmagh@armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk
We hope that you enjoy this year’s Georgian Festival Light Show.
Georgian Ghost Tour
Date: Friday 29th & Saturday 30th November
Time: 7.30pm & 8.00pm
Location: Departs Vicar’s Hill
Price: £10.00 - Book Here
For a more spooky way to celebrate Georgian Day, join us on a ghoulish evening walking tour where you will hear spine-chilling stories about some of the ghosts of Armagh City.
You will tread the historic streets accompanied by your tour guide to hear of locations haunted by disturbed souls of the past - not for the faint hearted, book a place - if you dare!
Wear suitable walking shoes and warm clothing, good level of fitness required. Age 13+. Starts at Vicar's Hill, lasts one hour to finish at the Mall opposite Gaol Square. Distance approx 1.5km.
Please dress appropriately for all types of weather, we suggest you wear walking shoes. You may wish to bring a coat and small umbrella, just in case. A moderate level of fitness is required for this walk.
Georgian Day - Local Business Special Offers
Date: Saturday 30th November
Time: Click below for more info
Location: Armagh City Centre +
Georgian Day Stalls
Date: Saturday 30th November
Time: See Below
Location: The Mall & Armagh City Centre
The Mall: 12.00pm - 6.00pm
Armagh City Centre: 12.00pm - 8.00pm.
Over 100 festive artisan stalls will be selling their wares on Georgian Day. Lining the city centre streets and spilling out onto The Mall, an abundance of high quality crafts, seasonal gifts, beauty products, artisan food and drinks will be on offer!
Enjoy what is also on offer in the hot food area.
Family Festive Fun
Date: Saturday 30th November
Time: 12.00pm - 6.00pm
Location: The Mall
Join the festive fun on The Mall where you will find traditional funfair rides of Swing Boats and the beautiful Carousel.
There will also be traditional games including Hoopla, Hook a Duck and Coconut Shy. Santa's Reindeer will also be on The Mall to meet everyone before their preparations for pulling a sleigh!
Enjoy hot chestnuts fresh from the fire and as darkness falls watch the amazing fire performers light up The Mall.
Horse and Carriage Rides
Date: Saturday 30th November 2024
Time: Slots available from 11.15am to 7.10pm
Location: Departing from Charlemont Place, Mall East, Armagh
Price: £25.00 (max 5 people per carriage) - Book Here
Horse-drawn carriage rides around The Mall in Armagh are a wonderful way to behold the beauty of Armagh City’s distinctive Georgian architecture. Sit back and enjoy a traditional horse-drawn carriage ride around the iconic tree-lined Georgian Mall, in a stylish coach operated by a Georgian Coachman. Make lasting memories with that someone special, friends and family this Christmas. Departing from outside Charlemont Place, Mall East, Armagh.
The trip will last approximately 15 minutes. Please ensure you have your ticket with you and please arrive at least five minutes before your departure time. Late arrivals cannot be accommodated. Warm clothing advised. This booking permits a maximum of 5 people per carriage. We endeavour to meet booking times but there may be slight delays with traffic. We appreciate your understanding.
Mock Trials at Armagh Courthouse
Date: Saturday 30th November 2024
Time: 12.00pm & 2.00pm
Location: Armagh Court House
Price: £12.00 - Book Here
Witness the harshness of the Georgian legal system dealt to thieves and murderers in Armagh Courthouse.
Take your place to play your part as a member of the jury in this spectacle of rough justice with an interactive (and sometimes hilarious) trial.
Georgian Christmas Afternoon Tea -Armagh City Hotel
Date: Saturday 30th November 2024
Time: 12.00pm - 5.00pm
Location: The Archbishop's Palace, Armagh
Price: £29.50 per adult / £15 per child (under 12 years) - Book Here
Indulge in the charm of a Georgian Christmas afternoon tea experience like no other at Armagh City Hotel. Celebrate the festive season in style during the Armagh Georgian Weekend, where you can relish delectable treats and aromatic mulled wine. Immerse yourself in the festive ambiance while enjoying light live entertainment that adds an extra touch of magic to your afternoon. Join us for an unforgettable blend of flavours and festive delights.
Book online or call us on +44(0)28 3751 8888 (option 0)
Full payment taken at the time of booking - 24 hour booking / cancellation required - Gluten free, allergies and vegetarians will be catered for with advanced notice
Tours of the Archbishop's Palace
Your costumed guide will welcome visitors to this magnificent building with the Primate's Chapel and Ice House providing you with a fascinating tour lasting approximately 60 minutes.
Date: Saturday 30th November 2024
Time: 12.00pm, 3.00pm & 5.00pm
Location: The Archbishop's Palace, Armagh
Price: £10.00 - Book Here
The Palace was designed by famous architect Thomas Cooley in the classical style, originally it had two stories and a basement. In 1825 another floor and raised portico were added under the primateship of Lord John George Beresford. Your guide will share their knowledge of the former Archbishop of Armagh, Richard Robinson 1765 to 1794, a colourful personality, often known as the Builder of Armagh.
Silhouette Cutter
Date: Saturday 30th November 2024
Time: from 12.00pm
Location: Armagh County Museum, Mall East Armagh
Price: Free of charge and no booking required
Portrait silhouettes or “shades” became all the rage in fashionable Georgian society and were popular as mementos to be given away.
This is your opportunity to capture your own silhouette memento. Drop in and get your individual or family silhouette cut.
Free of charge and no booking required, but… subject to availability.
Georgian Day on Vicars' Hill
Date: Saturday 30th November 2024
Time: from 12.00pm
Location: Robinson Library, Vicar’s Hill, Armagh
Price: Free of charge and no booking required
The Hill of Armagh will play its role in welcoming visitors for Georgian Day. The Georgian buildings of the Library and No 5 Vicars' Hill, the former Registry, will be open on Saturday 30th November 2024 to encourage visitors to step back in time.
Visitors will have the opportunity to see inside the Library, which was built in 1771 as a public library and is the oldest library in Northern Ireland, and see inside the 1772 Registry, which held precious documents and records, where you can learn about Wax Sealing.
Both buildings were part of Archbishop Robinson's plans for Georgian Armagh. Library staff and volunteers will be on duty to talk with visitors to let them learn more about the Library's treasures, and on Georgian Day they will have additional help from Mrs Smith, who will add to the Georgian atmosphere.
Drop in – no booking required - free of charge, subject to availability.
Georgian Ladies Who Lunch
Date: Saturday 30th November 2024
Time: 12.30pm
Location: Armagh County Club, English Street, Armagh BT61 7HG
Price: £6.00 - Book Here
Observe the ladies of Armagh as they prepare to take their mid day repast. Enjoy some tittle tattle while they sip their scandal broth.
This event takes place on Saturday 30th November 2024 at 12.30pm until 1.00pm at Armagh County Club, 33 Upper English St, Armagh BT61 7HG.
Gorgeous Georgian
Date: Saturday 30th November 2024
Time: 2.00pm
Location: Armagh County Museum, Mall East
Price: £6.00 - Book Here
Witness our model being transformed into a gorgeous Georgian lady.
Learn about how she dressed the makeup she wore and enjoy a demonstration of the language of the fan.
Delicacies, Dancing and Indiscretions - The Georgian Tontine Rooms
Date: Saturday 30th November 2024
Time: 2.45pm
Location: Charlemont Arms Hotel, 57-65 Upper English St, Armagh BT61 7LB
Price: £6.00 - Book Here
A place to learn of surefire investments, overhear your neighbours' business shortcomings as well as their dalliances, Armagh's Georgian Tontine Assembly Rooms served as more than just a social outlet. Located in Lower English Street on the site which is now occupied by the North/South Ministerial Council, it was where Armagh's City Hall previously stood.
Interestingly, a reference is made in James Stuart’s History of Armagh (1819) that Archbishop Robinson was the survivor of a French tontine from which he derived his considerable wealth.On 9th March 1794, the Belfast Newsletter informed its readers that the new Tontine Assembly Rooms, “was to consist of tea, card, dancing and coffee rooms of elegant design”.
Join our Living History characters who will reenact a scene reminiscent of what would have happened in the Armagh Tontine Assembly Rooms.
This event takes place on Saturday 30th November 2024 at 2.45pm until 3.15pm in the Charlemont Arms Hotel, 57-65 Upper English St, Armagh BT61 7LB.
Georgian Girl Power at The Reform Club - Politics and Gossip
Date: Saturday 30th November 2024
Time: 4.30pm
Location: Armagh County Club, English Street, Armagh BT61 7HG
Price: £6.00 - Book Here
Blue Stocking Ladies Society and the Reform Clubs. Enter into the era of Enlightenment, join the ladies as they strive to raise the education of Ladies in Georgian Society. Hear how Mrs Montagu and Mrs Delaney are beginning a movement that will lead to the Suffragettes, Women’s Lib and 'Girl Power'.
The Blue Stocking Ladies wish to increase 'Knowledge & Intellect' among ladies in an age where science states, "Females brains are smaller than male". At this time only gentlemen have access to formal education, to professions and inheritance of their fathers Land and Titles. Ladies, once married, become the legal property of their husbands and their property legally becomes his.
The Blue Stocking Ladies want to change this idea through Debate, Art, Literature and Poetry. "It is in the nature of mankind to hazard their peace to secure Power and they know fools make the best slaves". Mrs Elizabeth Montagu.
This event takes place on Saturday 30th November 2024 at 4.30pm until 5.00pm at Armagh County Club, 33 Upper English St, Armagh BT61 7HG.
Palace Demesne Walking Tours
Date: Saturday 30th & Sunday 1st December 2024
Time: Saturday 30th at 3.00pm & Sunday 31st at 12.00pm
Location: from the Franciscan Friary, The Palace Demesne, Friary Road, Armagh
Price: £6.00 - Book Here
If you enjoy the great outdoors with a combination of beautiful views, being close to nature and local history, then the Armagh Palace Demesne Walk is a perfect combination of all of these.
This guided walk of approximately one hour will include a leisurely walk through the splendid Place Demesne with its towering mature trees and open green spaces not to mention panoramic views over the city of Armagh. You will be regaled with stories of buildings that can be seen within the grounds and those from a distance. Your guide will share their knowledge of the former Archbishop of Armagh, Richard Robinson 1765 to 1794, a colourful personality, often known as the Builder of Armagh who had the Primate’s Palace built in 1770.
Guided Georgian Walking Tours
Date: Saturday 30th & Sunday 1st December 2024
Time: 12.00pm, 2.00pm, 3.00pm & 4.00pm
Location: Departs Armagh Omniplex Cinema
Price: £6.00 - Book Here
This tour departs from the Omniplex Cinema, Market Street, Armagh. Delve into the Georgian history of Armagh with an insight into many of the notable buildings created in the latter half of the 18th Century. Listen as your Guide paints a picture of the legacy of Archbishop Robinson and the vision he had for Armagh as a University City.
This 90-minute walking tour will explore the various corners of Armagh connected with the Georgian era bringing us up to the modern day. The tour does not include entry into any of the buildings on the tour. It ends at Vicar's Hill.
Please dress appropriately for all types of weather, with walking shoes. You may wish to bring a coat and small umbrella, just in case. A moderate level of fitness is required for this walk.
Georgian Concert by Candlelight
Date: Sunday 1st December 2024
Time: 4.00pm
Location: The Archbishop’s Palace / The Primate's Chapel, Palace Demesne, Armagh
Price: £25.00 - Book Here
Join us as we begin a musical Georgian Grand Tour curated and performed by the Arco String Quartet. These pieces of music were made popular in the 1700s by young Georgians as they undertook travel and adventure across the Europe.
These travels completed a young wealthy Georgian's education, offering a chance of adventure in exciting and different cultures. The Archbishop's Chapel is a perfect setting for this event and the Arco Quartet will perform with perfection, a selection of pieces to bring you back in time, ranging from the music Handel to Mozart, the 'Taylor Swift' of the Georgian period.
Arco String Quartet is one of the country’s leading professional and dynamic string quartets. Its members have performed all over the world with The Ulster Orchestra, The RTE National Symphony Orchestra, Camerata Ireland, The Irish Chamber Orchestra, The Royal Liverpool Philharmonic, English National Opera, Northern Ballet and Manchester Camerata.
The ticket includes a glass of bubbles and light nibbles - non-alcoholic drinks are also available. Please meet at The Archbishop's Palace for refreshments, you will then be guided across to the Primate's Chapel for the concert.
Georgian Day & Festival - Quick Guide
Friday 29th November
6.00pm - Georgian Light Show 2024 - It’s A Holly Jolly Christmas (Market Street, Armagh)
6.45pm - Not so Gorgeous Georgian Walking Tour (from Armagh Gaol)
7.00pm - Georgian Light Show 2024 - It’s A Holly Jolly Christmas (Market Street, Armagh)
7.30pm - The Highwayman's Banquet (Archbishop’s Palace, Armagh)
7.30pm - Georgian Ghost Tour (Departing Vicar’s Hill)
8.00pm - Georgian Light Show 2024 - It’s A Holly Jolly Christmas (Market Street, Armagh)
8.00pm - Georgian Ghost Tour (Departing Vicar’s Hill)
Saturday 30th November
All Day - Georgian Day - Local Business Special Offers
11.15am - Horse and Carriage Rides (Slots bookable from 11.15am to 7.10pm - Departing from Charlemont Place, Mall East, Armagh)
12.00pm - Georgian Day Stalls (The Mall and Armagh City Centre)
12.00pm - Family Festive Fun (The Mall)
12.00pm - Mock Trials at Armagh Courthouse (The Mall)
12.00pm - Tour of the Archbishop's Palace (The Palace Demesne, Armagh)
12.00pm - Guided Georgian Walking Tour (Departing Armagh Omniplex Cinema)
12.00pm - Silhouette Cutter (from 12.00pm - Armagh County Museum, The Mall)
12.00pm - Georgian Day on Vicars' Hill (from 12.00pm - Robinson Library, Vicar’s Hill, Armagh)
12.00pm - Georgian Christmas Afternoon Tea (from 12.00pm, Armagh City Hotel)
12.00pm - Mock Trials at Armagh Courthouse (The Mall)
12.30pm - Georgian Ladies Who Lunch (Armagh County Club)
2.00pm - Guided Georgian Walking Tour (Departing Armagh Omniplex Cinema)
2.00pm - Gorgeous Georgian (Armagh County Musem, Mall East)
2.45pm - Delicacies, Dancing and Indiscretions - The Georgian Tontine Rooms (Charlemont Arms Hotel)
3.00pm - Guided Georgian Walking Tour (Departing Armagh Omniplex Cinema)
3.00pm - Tour of the Archbishop's Palace (The Palace Demesne, Armagh)
3.00pm - Palace Demesne Walking Tour (from the Franciscan Friary, Friary Road)
4.00pm - Guided Georgian Walking Tour (Departing Armagh Omniplex Cinema)
4.30pm - Georgian Girl Power at The Reform Club - Politics and Gossip (Armagh County Club)
5.00pm - Georgian Light Show 2024 - It’s A Holly Jolly Christmas (Market Street, Armagh)
5.00pm - Tour of the Archbishop's Palace (The Palace Demesne, Armagh)
6.00pm - Georgian Light Show 2024 - It’s A Holly Jolly Christmas (Market Street, Armagh)
6.45pm - Not so Gorgeous Georgian Walking Tour (from Armagh Gaol)
7.00pm - Georgian Light Show 2024 - It’s A Holly Jolly Christmas (Market Street, Armagh)
7.30pm - Georgian Ghost Tour (Departing Vicar’s Hill)
8.00pm - Georgian Light Show 2024 - It’s A Holly Jolly Christmas (Market Street, Armagh)
8.00pm - Georgian Ghost Tour (Departing Vicar’s Hill)
Sunday 1st December
12.00pm - Guided Georgian Walking Tour (Departing Armagh Omniplex Cinema)
3.00pm - Palace Demesne Walking Tour (from the Franciscan Friary, Friary Road)
2.00pm - Guided Georgian Walking Tour (Departing Armagh Omniplex Cinema)
3.00pm - Guided Georgian Walking Tour (Departing Armagh Omniplex Cinema)
4.00pm - Guided Georgian Walking Tour (Departing Armagh Omniplex Cinema)
4.00pm - Georgian Concert by Candlelight (The Archbishop’s Palace / The Primate's Chapel, Palace Demesne, Armagh)
Jump to Event (A-Z)
Delicacies, Dancing and Indiscretions - The Georgian Tontine Rooms
Georgian Girl Power at the Reform Club - Politics and Gossip
Further Information:
Should you have any access requirements, please mention during the booking process and these will be accommodated as far as possible. Please email georgianarmagh@armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.ukfor further assistance.
To view General Information and Cancellation Policy for Armagh Georgian Festival 2024 - please click: https://visitarmagh.com/festivals/georgianfestival/general-information-and-cancellation-policy
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