Holiday World Belfast 2027 dates confirmed as Irish Ferries announced as new headline sponsor

Holiday World Belfast 2027 will return to the Waterfront Hall in January, with Irish Ferries announced as the new headline sponsor of Northern Ireland’s largest holiday and travel exhibition.

The three-day event will take place at ICC Belfast at the Waterfront Hall from Friday 8 to Sunday 10 January 2027, bringing together travel companies, holiday destinations and tourism experts from across the world.

Now in its 34th year, the popular exhibition is expected to attract more than 10,000 visitors from across Northern Ireland, with organisers promising holiday inspiration, expert advice and exclusive offers.

Irish Ferries becomes new Holiday World Belfast sponsor

Organisers Business Exhibitions Ltd have confirmed that Irish Ferries will become the event’s headline sponsor for 2027.

The ferry operator has been a regular exhibitor at Holiday World Belfast for several years, but the new partnership will see it take on a more prominent role.

Maria Hourican, Chief Executive of Business Exhibitions Ltd, welcomed the announcement.

“Irish Ferries is one of the best-known names in travel across the island of Ireland and a brand that has a natural connection with our visitors,” she said.

Ms Hourican said January was traditionally a popular time for people to begin planning holidays for the year ahead.

She added that the exhibition offered visitors an opportunity to explore different destinations and speak directly with travel professionals who could help them plan their next trip.

Holiday World Belfast 2027 to showcase destinations worldwide

The exhibition will feature a wide range of travel and holiday options across Ireland, the UK, Europe and destinations further afield.

Visitors can expect representatives from airlines, cruise operators, ferry companies, travel agencies, tour operators, hotels and visitor attractions.

The event is designed to bring travel inspiration and practical advice together in one location, allowing visitors to compare different types of holidays.

Organisers say the exhibition will also feature special offers available exclusively at the show, alongside free-to-enter holiday prize draws.

Whether visitors are considering a family holiday, a European city break, a cruise or a longer overseas adventure, the event aims to provide options for a wide range of interests and budgets.

Irish Ferries highlights holidays to France

As part of its new sponsorship, Irish Ferries will use the exhibition to promote its ferry services and the flexibility of travelling with a vehicle.

Marie McCarthy, Passenger Sales Manager UK and Ireland at Irish Ferries, said the company was delighted to become headline sponsor.

“We are delighted to come on board as headline sponsor of Holiday World Show Belfast 2027,” she said.

“The show is a wonderful opportunity for us to meet holidaymakers face-to-face, inspire them with new travel ideas and highlight just how much choice and flexibility a ferry holiday can offer.”

The company is particularly keen to showcase its direct Dublin to Cherbourg ferry service, providing an option for travellers planning holidays in France.

Ms McCarthy said taking a car on the ferry allowed holidaymakers to explore destinations at their own pace, whether planning a camping trip, touring holiday or city break.

Irish Ferries representatives will be available throughout the exhibition to discuss routes and holiday options with visitors.

Holiday World Belfast 2027 opening times and ticket prices

The exhibition will begin on Friday 8 January with a dedicated Trade and Media morning, running from 10am until 12.30pm.

The event will then open to the public at 12.30pm on Friday, with further public opening hours across the weekend.

Organisers have confirmed the following arrangements:

• Friday 8 January 2027: Public admission from 12.30pm.

• Saturday 9 January 2027: Open from 10am until 5pm.

• Sunday 10 January 2027: Open from 10am until 5pm.

Ticket prices have also been announced, with adult admission costing £5.

Senior citizens can attend for £4, while student admission is priced at £3.

A special family ticket costs £10 and covers two adults and up to four children.

Visitors are advised to check the official event website for booking information and any updates to admission arrangements.

Belfast travel exhibition enters its 34th year

Holiday World Belfast has become an established fixture in Northern Ireland’s annual events calendar, bringing travel companies and holidaymakers together at the beginning of each year.

The January 2027 exhibition will mark the event’s 34th year, continuing its tradition of showcasing destinations and helping visitors plan future trips.

Organisers say the new sponsorship agreement with Irish Ferries will support another major gathering of travel businesses and visitors at the Waterfront Hall.

Further information about the exhibition, participating companies and tickets is available through the official Holiday World Show Belfast website.

Official event website: Holiday World Show Belfast — Event information and tickets

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