Belfast Autumn Fair returns to Botanic Gardens this September: what residents need to know

demoduck.co.uk editorial team 2026-08-20 10:32 2 min read

The iconic Palm House at Belfast Botanic Gardens under a clear blue sky.

Belfast’s popular Autumn Fair is set to return to the historic Botanic Gardens for a two-day celebration of the changing seasons. Hosted by Belfast City Council, the free event will welcome families and visitors on Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 September 2026, running from 12:30pm to 5:30pm each day.

A Weekend of Seasonal Displays and Entertainment

The fair serves as a vibrant showcase for the city’s green spaces, offering a variety of activities designed for all ages. A central highlight of the weekend is the annual Autumn Flower Show, which features prize-winning seasonal blooms, giant vegetables, and intricate floral art displays.

Belfast Autumn Fair returns to Botanic Gardens this September: what residents need to know

This year’s event holds special significance for the Northern Ireland Bonsai Society, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary. Members will be on-site throughout the weekend to provide expert advice, demonstrations, and insights into the meticulous art of bonsai cultivation.

Workshops and Heritage Engagement

Coinciding with the European Heritage Open Days weekend, the fair provides unique opportunities for deeper engagement with the gardens. Visitors can join historical tours of the Botanic Gardens and its glasshouses, which will be complemented by live performances from local harpist Ursula Burns.

For those interested in creative pursuits, water colour workshops will be held in the Tropical Ravine and the Palm House. Additionally, the Sustainable Living Emporium will be active across the weekend, offering a range of practical sessions including cookery demonstrations, willow workshops, and planting activities, alongside lifestyle advice for eco-conscious attendees.

At a Glance: Event Highlights

Feature	Description
Main Attractions	Autumn Flower Show, Bonsai Society 40th Anniversary
Live Music	Performances by The Professionals, The Drifters, and Ursula Burns
Creative Sessions	Water colour workshops and willow crafting
Eco-Focus	Sustainable Living Emporium with cookery and planting demos

Practical Information and Booking

While entry to the Autumn Fair is free, some specific activities require advance planning. Historical tours of the gardens and the water colour workshops are ticketed and require attendees to secure a spot in advance. The event also features a variety of local food and craft stalls, providing a platform for local talent and produce.

For further information on the full schedule, or to secure a place for the ticketed workshops and historical tours, visit the official Belfast City Council event page.

Source: Belfast City Council

Context & actions About this article

Source check Verified Event Details

The event details were verified against the official Belfast City Council announcement for the 2026 Autumn Fair.

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