Belfast's festive season 'almost here'

12 November 2008 -

Belfast's Christmas tree has arrived and is waiting to be erected as the city gears up for the lights to be switched on.

The 45-foot tree will be set up in front of the City Hall ahead of the Christmas lights being turned on, on November 18th.

A continental market will also be coming to the Northern Irish city this year, which will be opened on the same day as the switch-on.

The city's wheel will stay in operation throughout the Christmas season, to bring more people to the centre.

Reg Maxwell, area manager of the Belfast city council parks and amenities, tells 4NI.co.uk selecting the tree is crucial.

"A number of criteria have to be met: the size and form, a sound straight stem," he adds.

Mr Maxwell adds it is important the tree is sturdy as it will be in place for two months.

Each year the city's council treecycles the festive foliage and uses it as compost in Belfast's parks, while encouraging residents to do likewise.