“You really feel how the community comes together — it’s something special.”
A community in North Belfast has brought the Christmas spirit to their area with an impressive light display organised and funded by residents.
The festive tradition in the Glandore area started four years ago, after brothers Carl and Nathan Hughes launched a plan to “flower bomb” the area in the spring time to lighten up the urban streets. Wanting to keep spirits high as the plants withered in the winter, they put their efforts into spreading the word about the magical display.
The Christmas lights on Glandore Avenue have been previously switched on by TV personality Julian Simmons and last year, by thn Lord Mayor of Belfast, Micky Murray. This year, local man and internationally recognised DJ and producer DJ Daire switched on the lights.
READ MORE: Julian Simmons turns on Christmas lights in North Belfast neighbourhood to kick off festive seasonREAD MORE: North Belfast neighbours join forces to ‘flower bomb’ their area
The initiative sees residents individually wrapping their street trees in Christmas lights, creating a striking visual symbol of unity. What began as a simple neighbour-led idea has grown year on year, with more streets illuminated than ever before in 2025.
Carl and Nathan started Restore Glandore ATC, a volunteer-led group dedicated to protecting North Belfast’s Areas of Townscape Character, preserving architectural heritage, and ensuring the area remains a safe and attractive place for families.
The group’s efforts have already been recognised, with Glandore Avenue named Best Community Street at the Belfast in Bloom Awards for two consecutive years, run by Belfast City Council, and now nominated once again.
DJ Daire, who grew up in the area, has built a strong international reputation as a DJ and producer. His recent releases have gained widespread support across streaming platforms and dance music DJ sets internationally, further cementing his profile beyond Ireland.
Despite a busy global schedule, Daire has returned to support the community initiative — something organisers say adds genuine meaning.
“I absolutely love the street lights at Christmas on Glandore Avenue,” Daire said. “People talk about them every year. You really feel how the community comes together — it’s something special.”
Carl Hughes, founder of Restore Glandore ATC, said Daire’s involvement reflects the true spirit of the project.
“There’s no funding, no sponsorship and no financial backing,” Carl said. “Every light you see has been paid for by residents themselves. Daire giving his time shows what it means to support the place you come from.”
With 28 newly planted trees now lining the avenue, the festive display has become a firm favourite with local families, particularly children. Volunteers, affectionately known as Santa’s Little Helpers, continue to help residents take part, ensuring the lights grow year after year.
Restore Glandore ATC said they hope the initiative will continue to inspire other communities, showing how pride of place, heritage protection and simple acts of togetherness can make a lasting difference across North Belfast.
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