Blues rock legend Van Morrison has today announced a return to Belfast’s Europa Hotel for two Christmas shows in his home city.

The Christmas performances, entitled “Life Ain’t No Dress Rehearsal”, will take place over two nights on December 4 and 5 at the world-famous hotel, which is part of Northern Ireland’s leading collection of hotels, Hastings Hotels.

The intimate ‘jazz club’ cabaret-style shows will see the legendary singer-songwriter perform a back catalogue of past hits like 'Brown Eyed Girl' and 'Days Like This' as well as songs from his later albums and collaborations.

Tickets go on sale today on ticketmaster.co.uk and start from £175 which includes a champagne drinks reception and dinner.

The Europa Hotel has hosted many prestigious events and international celebrities including musicians Bob Dylan, Elvis Costello and Lionel Richie as well as President Bill Clinton when he stayed there in 1995 and 1998. It is located in the heart of Belfast city centre and offers a choice of 272 hotel rooms.

Guests can enjoy an overnight stay at the Europa Hotel or Grand Central Hotel and best available rates can be found on www.hastingshotels.com