A number of bars, restaurants and shops will close in Belfast city center on Saturday as the Northern Ireland Centennial Parade takes place.
About 20,000 people and more than 130 bands are expected to take part in the May 28 parade, which will run from Stormont to the city center at 1 p.m.
The event was postponed to 2021 due to the coronavirus pandemic.
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Due to the number of people scheduled for Saturday, some shops have announced that they will be closed for the day or changing their opening hours.
Belfast Downtown Management said: “This Saturday, May 28, Belfast will host thousands of people for the NI Centennial Parade. Several downtown roads will be closed throughout the afternoon during the parade. go from Stormont to Belfast Town Hall with some shuttle bus services if necessary (including pick-up and drop-off points).
“Visitors are advised to arrive in the city on Saturday to plan ahead and consider the extra time for their trip.
“Opening hours will vary depending on the retail and hospitality business in the city center, as staff will have to adjust their commutes to and from work, so please plan the your visit accordingly and check the opening hours with individual companies “.
Belfast’s Alibi Nightclub has said it will not open on Saturday due to the parade saying: “With the Centenary Parade at our door this Saturday we have made the difficult decision to close just one day. We apologize again. We will be open again on Friday, June 3rd for all your cocktail and dance floor needs. “
NI Centennial Parade Route (Image: Orange Order)
The Broken Shaker also said it would remain closed during the day, saying: “We will close this Saturday night due to the centenary celebrations taking place in Belfast. We will reopen as usual on Shaker Sundays from 8pm: 00 “.
Bootleggers has also announced that it will remain closed on May 28, saying: “Bootleggers will remain closed this Saturday the 28th due to an event that will take place in the city center.
“Don’t be afraid, we’ll be back on Sunday at 1pm for all your burgers and beers.”
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Kelly’s Cellars has also decided to close by saying: “As you know, a big parade will take place in the city center tomorrow, Saturday, May 28. It is widely anticipated that this will cause major disruptions to travel for both you and our staff. .
“So, after much deliberation, we are writing to you to let you know that, along with many other downtown businesses, we will be closed tomorrow.
“We didn’t want to do that, but you and our staff will ALWAYS come first.
“We will be back to normal on Sunday and look forward to welcoming you back. Thank you for your understanding.”
Other businesses such as Lunn’s Watches, Lauren May Jewelery, Toy Soldiers Airsoft and The Ramp House skate park have also announced that they will be closed due to the parade.
Some shops will also be closed during the parade itself and will reopen later.
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