A number of bars, restaurants and shops will be closed in central Belfast on Saturday as the Northern Ireland Century Parade takes place.
About 20,000 people and more than 130 groups are expected to take part in the May 28 parade, which will go 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 expected on Saturday, some companies have announced they will be closed for the day or change their opening hours.
Belfast Center management said: “This Saturday, May 28, Belfast will welcome thousands of people to the NI Century Parade. A number of downtown roads will be closed throughout the afternoon as the parade runs from Stormont to Belfast City Hall with some bus services being diverted where appropriate (including pick-up and drop-off points).
“Visitors coming to the city on Saturday are encouraged to plan ahead and take into account the extra time for their trip.
“Opening hours will vary depending on the shops and hotels in the city center, as staff have to adjust their travel to and from work, so please plan your visit accordingly and check the opening hours of individual companies.”
Alibi Nightclub in Belfast said it would not open on Saturday due to a parade that said: “With the centenary parade on our doorstep this Saturday, we made the difficult decision to close for just one day. If you have planned we apologize for organizing an evening with us. We are working again on Friday, June 3, for all your cocktail and dance needs. “
NI Centennial Parade Route (Image: Orange Order)
The Broken Shaker also said it would be closed for the day, saying: “We will be closed this Saturday night due to the centennial celebrations in Belfast. We will be open again as usual for Shaker Sunday from 20:00. “
Bootleggers also announced that it will be closed on May 28, saying: “Bootleggers will be closed this Saturday, the 28th due to an event taking place in the city center.
“Don’t be afraid to work again on Sunday at 1pm for all your burgers and beer needs.”
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Kelly’s Cellars also decided to close, saying: “As you know, a very large parade will pass through the city center tomorrow, Saturday, May 28. It is widely expected that this will lead to serious disruptions in the journey for both you and our staff.
“Therefore, after much deliberation, we are writing with a heavy heart to inform you that along with many other businesses in the city center, 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 as usual on Sunday and look forward to seeing you again. Thank you for your understanding.”
Other companies, including Lunn’s Watches, Lauren May Jewelery, Toy Soldiers Airsoft and Skate Park The Ramp House, have also announced they will be closed due to the parade.
Some businesses will also be closed during the parade itself and will reopen thereafter.
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