As Santa's sleigh gets ready for lift-off, embark on your own family adventure this Christmas.
Enjoy a magical journey through Ireland's Christmas wonderland with Santa visits, festive markets, ice-skating, creative craft workshops, popular Panto's and shows and many more seasonal delights that await you across the island.
Our county-by-county guide is full of festive spirt with a large selection of different family experiences that will make this one Christmas to remember.
| Antrim |
Rapunzel
Waterfront Hall | Until January 9th, 2024
Rapunzel is brought to you by a fabulous cast, laugh-out-loud comedy, beautiful costumes, and singing for all the family to enjoy. With all your favourite pantomime characters and plenty of audience participation to ensure that everyone leaves with a smile on their face.
Don’t get yourself tangled up this year, book tickets and go on a wonderful adventure!
| Armagh |
Mission Santa
Armagh Observatory and Planetarium | Selected Dates 25th November – 23rd December, 2023
It’s a real Code Red! Join the E.L.F. crew on Mission Santa and blast off on a Christmas adventure. Tickets include admission to to “The Alien Who stole Christmas” full-dome show in the star dome theatre. Help save Santa inside mission control during a theatrical show, along with a visit to see Santa!
Live Manger at Tannaghmore Animal Farm
Tannaghmore Animal Farm, Craigavon City Park | TBC
This Christmas, check out the stunning Live Manger at Tannaghmore Animal Farm – a truly magical experience for all the family to enjoy! You will find Jesus, Mary, Joseph and the three Kings in a remake of that world famous stable complete with donkey, sheep, cows and other animals. Featuring Galway sheep, Irish Moiled cows and pygmy goats, you will find this heart-warming nativity display in a converted outhouse on the farm. A beautiful event showcasing the true meaning of Christmas!
| Carlow |
Christmas Wonderland at Delta Sensory Gardens
Delta Sensory Gardens | December 2nd, 3rd, 7th- 10th & 14th - 21st, 2023
Delta Christmas Craft Fair on December 17th features an amazing variety of folk craft, traditional gifts and decorations. Enjoy the twinkling lights, hot chocolate, tasty treats and some Christmas shopping at their Arts & Craft area! On December 2nd, 3rd, 9th and 10th you can also enjoy a visit to Santa and the Elves Workshop in a Sensory Santa Experience from 11 a.m. – 5.30 p.m. This event is exclusively for children and adults with additional needs in a fun, relaxed environment.
Includes entry to the gardens for the Christmas Lights display.
Santa Train
Rathwood | November 24th - 24th December, 2023
Santa Visits the Big Top 2023!
Join the Rathwood's Train for a truly special experience. This year, they have conjured up an extraordinary event straight from your wildest Christmas dreams, featuring Santa, Mrs. Claus, and all their cheerful elves!
| Cavan |
Kingscourt Entreprise Centre | December 1st, 2023 18:30-20:30
Join Santa and friends for 2 hours of festive fun where you can play the evening away with entertaining elves, receive sweets & treats, mingle with your favourite characters and have some festive face paint & meet Santa in his grotto to receive a small gift. The Playcentre will also be open daily over the holidays to help burn off some extra energy!
Christmas Lights Vehicle Parade
Cavan Town | 17:00, December 17th, 2023
Departing from Cavan Equestrian Centre at 5pm this fantastic display. Our chosen charities for 2023 are Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust, Vincent McGee Benefit Fund, CUAN (Cancer Understanding And Nurtuting) – Cavan Branch, The Cavan Monaghan Palliative Care Fund and Yanna’s Four Leaf Clover. Please support this fantastic annual charity event.
| Clare |
Jack & the Beanstalk presented by Pantaloons
Glór Irish Music Centre | Friday 22 December 2.30pm: Relaxed Performance, Saturday 23rd December, Wednesday 27 December – Monday 1st January 2024, 2.30pm
Jack lives in a lovely little cottage, with his mother and his sister, Sara. They are very poor and are way behind on their rent. The Wicked Squire is about to evict them if they can’t pay their rent. Jack’s mother sends him to the local market to sell their only possession – their beloved cow Dave. On the way to the market Jack meets two Strangers and they convince him to exchange Dave for a bag of magic beans!!!
Christmas at the Farm
Moher Hill Open Farm | Weekends from 2nd December to the 17th of December, 2024
Children will meet Santa's Elves, play in the indoor bouncing castle, ball pool and under 5's areas while dults will keep themselves refreshed with complimentary tea, coffee or mulled wine and a festive homemade mince pie.
Each child will get food to feed all the animals, who are snuggled up in their animal barn and families will have a chance to sit in and take a picture in Santa's Sleigh and feed and pet Santa's deer as well as the all important private audience with Santa Claus, where each child will receive a gift and have time to chat with Santa.
| Cork |
Corkmas - A Cork Christmas Celebration
Cork | November 18th, 2023 - 7th January 2024
Solas, the centre-piece of Cork’s Christmas offering, will be open to the public from Saturday, November 18th, heralding the beginning of the busy Christmas shopping period and the Ferris Wheel returns, transforming the skyline and offering unparalleled views of the surrounding area, the much-loved and iconic 32m Panoramic Wheel brings to Cork some very welcome festive cheer. Or, closer to the ground for our smaller guests, take a ride on the classic Carousel and lots more pop-up events.
Santa's Magical Market
Cork | Selected dates until Decemner 23rd
Families can wander through snow kissed woods, pose with the ‘Polar Express’ train, visit the Christmas village, help, make toys at the Elf Toy Workshop, make treats at Mrs Claus’s bakery, and pay a visit to the South Pole Post Office. Finally you’ll be meeting Santa himself in his snow covered Grotto! The event is also fully accessible, and there’s a sensory hour each Sunday morning from 11am-12pm. It’s even dog friendly! And a fantastic benefit of Santa’s Magical Market is that you can make a day of it by soaking up the fantastic atmosphere of the Marina Market, one of Ireland’s top food and craft halls, before strolling into the city for Christmas festivities and shopping.
Beauty & the Beast | The Everyman
Everyman Theatre | until January 14th, 2024
In a little town (somewhere in Cork, like!), the beautiful Belle dreams of so much more than her simple life. When she discovers a castle (think Blarney or Blackrock) frozen in time under the spell of an enchanted rose and ruled over by a terrible Beast who was once a handsome prince, she must learn to look beyond his appearance if love is to save the day.
With talking teapots, singing candlesticks and clever clocks, this classic tale will delight a whole new generation
Jack and the Beanstalk| Cork Opera House
Cork Opera House | until January 21st, 2024
Full of fe-fi-fo-FUN for all the family, join Jack, Nanny Nellie, and a host of lovable companions in a spectacular show packed with amazing colour, spellbinding costumes, magical live music, breath-taking dance, and a tonne of belly laughs! The same Panto ‘dream team‘ who brought you the magnificent and magical Sleeping Beauty in 2022 return to cast their magic over the Cork Opera House stage once again from December 2023, all the way through to January 21, 2024!
Alpine Skating Trail | Cork
Fota Wildlife Park | Until January 28th, 2024
Brought to you by the operators of Cork On Ice since 2007, Alpine Skate Trail is located in Fota House and Gardens in Cork and has a practice ice rink, a 300 metre long trail and a new freestyle area!
The Polar Expres
Model Railway Village, Clonakilty | Until December 23rd, 2023
Join Santa and Mrs Claus, all the elves, and a host of festive friends for an extraordinary indoor and outdoor, walk-through Christmas adventure designed to delight the entire family. Be immersed in the Christmas magic with sing-alongs, interactive storylines, and lots of excitement that will captivate all the family. Meet Mrs Claus who has a special request for all the young visitors.
| Derry |
Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs
Waterside Theatre | 8th December - 20th December 2023
The Grove Theatre Company return with their traditional style panto combining a blend of song, dance and humour, featuring a talented local cast of all ages. Family fun and a great night out.
| Donegal |
Wild Arctic Experience
Wild Ireland | December 1st - 23rd, 2023
This Christmas, journey to the Wild Arctic to meet Santa, his reindeer and our enchanting Arctic creatures. Admission includes a visit to the Arctic Wonderland and Amazing light display, meet the Arctic Foxes, the Reindeer, and Snowy Owls, meet Santa Claus and his elves and each child will receive a present from Santa.
Winter Wonderland
Castle Adventure Open Farm | until December 23rd, 2023
A Magical Winter Wonderland experience that is a one hour long storytelling journey that creates incredible memories and excitement for every child. Explore the fabulous world of the Elves and meet Mrs Claus before heading to Santa’s lodge. From the elf village and magic doors, to presents and magic reindeer food, immerse yourself in a seasonal extravaganza; take lots of fantastic photos, come away laden with goodies and filled with Christmas cheer.
Santa Express at Oakfield House
Oakfield House | various until December 23rd, 2022
Returning for 2023 is The Santa Express!
The Santa Express in Oakfield Park is one of Ireland’s most famous festive events, that everyone will love - on a real Santa Train, not a tractor! Visit Father Christmas, join the Elf Olympic games, enjoy crafts at Chestnut Cottage and meet Mo in the Ice Kingdom.
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| Down |
Elves' Mess Hall
Downpatrick & County Down Railway | weekends until December 23rd, 2023
Unfortunately, the track and station has been damaged by recent flooding but, all is not lost!
Join Santa, Mrs. Claus, and their cheeky elves for an afternoon of festive fun in the Elves' Mess Hall in Down County Museum. On arrival at the museum you can enjoy the museum exhibitions while you wait to be welcomed by two of Santa’s cheeky elves. Your group will then be escorted to the hall, where you can enjoy a Hot Chocolate and Cookie as you wait for Santa to appear. The two cheeky elves will be up to plenty of mischief as well so watch out!
The event will last roughly the same time as the Lapland Express would have done, approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour. Your interaction with Santa will be exactly the same as before – the only difference is that it won’t be on a train.
| Dublin |
Airfield Estate Winter Trail
Airfield Estate | until December 23rd, 2023
This magical experience is sure to fill your winter season with joy. Follow a lighted trail through the stunning farm and gardens, inspired by the beloved holiday classic song, Winter Wonderland with a Winter Wonderland Lights Trail, Festive Craft-R-Noons, Storytime, Advent Windows, Winter Warmer Café & Postcards from Airfield.
Entry is free for annual pass supporters and included with a regular day ticket.
The Santa Truck
Kidspace Rathcoole | December 5th, 18:30
Early arrival is advised as families can board the Santa Truck where you will meet Santa & Mrs Claus and maybe even the Grinch! This promises to be a really special night! The Nest Café will be open for festive food & drinks as well as face painting & tattoos in the Pamper Parlour.
As a mark of appreciation to Kidspace customers admission to Kidspace Playcentre is free and the centre will open for play from 4pm. Voluntary donations to Laura Lynn Children's Hospice on arrival are much appreciated and all funds will go directly to this amazing charity
Sustainable Christmas Fair
The Rediscovery Centre, Ballymum | December 2nd, 2023, 11:00 - 16:00
This Christmas experience will feature market stalls with sustainably made products focusing on reuse, quality and local production showcasing social enterprises and independent retailers. Find your special sustainable, upcycled or ethically sourced gifts while supporting the environment.
Santa's Magical Cabin
Dublin, Cork, Limerick, Laois, Clare | Until December 23rd
Over the past fourteen years Santa’s Magical Cabin in association with Dunnes Stores has provided children and adults alike with a wonderful visit to Santa Claus in his magical cabin! Upon check-in an elf guide will meet each family and take them directly to meet Santa Claus in his magical cabin. Children will be amazed by what Santa knows about them and he will give each child a beautiful age appropriate gift. Everyone will be entertained throughout by energetic elves who will tell everyone exactly how Santa, his reindeer and all the elves prepare for Christmas.
Retro Christmas Drive In Movies
Leopardstown Racecourse | December 2nd - 17th, 2023
Enjoy a special Christmas movie screening, from the comfort of your car where you can bring your PJs and pillow...and maybe even a duvet. Featuring The Grinch, Home Alone, Elf, A Wonderful Life, Love Actually and The Polar Express.
Helix Panto | Treasure Island
The Helix | until January 14th, 2024
This year's show ‘Treasure Island’ promises to be as fun, fresh and magical as ever. Creating an exciting new script with plenty of twists, turns and adventure, the panto promises yet another hilarious production for all the family to enjoy. Join the cast as they journey through the magical pantosphere of intrigue and adventure!
Draiocht Panto | Freezin, the Panto
Draiocht | January 4th - 21st, 2024
A story of true love and acceptance between sisters Princess Ella and Princess Hannah, Freezin centres on the relationship between the two sisters. Ella has magical powers to freeze objects and people, which she doesn't know how to control. When faced with danger, the two discover their hidden potential and the powerful bond of sisterhood.
Family Workshop | Festive Christmas Crafts
St. Patrick's Cathedral | December 16th, 2023
Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere of Saint Patrick’s Cathedral this Christmas. Perfect for children aged 5-12, this free creative workshop will teach how to make beaded ornaments in a variety of colorful designs. Children can make their own ornaments to take home and showcase on the tree. You can also enjoy Handle by Candle, a special performance of the Christmas music from Handel’s great oratorio Messiah on December 15th, along with other festive music all performed by the stunning voices of the world renowned Cathedral Choir.
Olympia Panto | Olly, Polly & the Magic Lamp
Olympia Theatre | December 20th - January 7th, 2024
It's the "Oh Yes it is!" moment you've all been waiting for!
Prepare to be dazzled by the glittering visual production, featuring stunning sets and jaw-dropping special effects. And the musical hits? They're so show-stopping that we guarantee you'll be singing and dancing in your seats!
Gaiety Panto | Cinderella
Gaiety Theatre | until January 21st, 2024
Bursting at the seams with Panto antics, song and dance, breathtaking costumes and mesmerising magic, this updated rags to riches tale will show us what dreams are really made of…and a dream isn’t just a wish your heart makes. As always, true love finds a way and good conquers evil in this enchanting story, because there’s no room for bullies at the ball.
So, if the shoe fits, then join us for the biggest, the best and most magical Panto of them all, ‘Cinderella’ – celebrating ‘150’ years of Panto at the Gaiety Theatre.
New Year Festival Dublin
Dublin | December 29th & January 1st, 2024
Four days of celebration, accross three venues featuring over forty acts, including Picture This who will ring in 2024 at Dublin Castle's New Year’s Eve Festival with special guests Moncrieff and Lea Heart.
Cheerios Christmas Panto | Sammy, Buffy & the Beanstalk
National Stadium | December 12th - January 7th, 2024
Sammy and Buffy are back in The National Stadium, celebrating 25 years! One of Ireland's most popular pantos, you'll be howling with laughter (and embarrasment!). I swear on my hair
Funderland Dublin
RDS | December 26th - January 14th, 2024
Some traditions are worth keeping! For almost 50 years Funderland has brought the newest and most exciting attractions for all ages to experience. This year is no different, with so much excitement it’s sure to create an unforgettable experience.
The Moving Crib
Saint Martin Apostolate & Chapel | Until January 8th, 2024, 10:30-17:00
The timeless charm of the Moving Crib lives on and has become a nostalgic centerpiece of the Christmas season for many. Enjoy a medley of Biblical, historical, and fun stories, competitions, an illusion wall all wrapped up in a blanket of Christmas magic. It is guaranteed festive fun for all ages!
It’s a monument of Dublin’s “rare auld times” but one that carries a message for today, helping to banish the winter blues and warm its visitors with excitement and real Christmas Spirit.
Wild Lights at Dublin Zoo
Dublin Zoo | Until January 7th, 2024
Wild Lights, the award-winning night-time spectacular returns to Dublin Zoo with a brand-new theme, ‘The Enchanted Zoo’. As you journey through this immersive experience, you’ll also have the chance to meet the nocturnal keepers and guardians of the mystical animals and creatures, the Zoo gnomes, visible only in the Zoo at night.
Santa Experience @ Croke Park
Croke Park | Selected dates unitl December 22nd, 2023
Fans of the festive season and Gaelic games will be thrilled to hear that Santa Claus is returning for his annual trip to Croke Park! On the Croke Park Santa Experience all visitors are VIP’s as they get fascinating behind the ‘winter wonderland’ scenes access. Guided by the Ice Patrol team you’ll be treated to an exclusive peek inside the North Pole GAA Dressing Rooms, you can see where all your favourite hurling and football stars tog out on game day.
Next you’ll journey to the super Skills Zone, where you can play a 'cool' selection of fun, festive games. Then it’s time to write your letter to Santa at Cú Chulainn’s Den, where you can get it stamped with our official Sam & Liam stamps and post it in our GAA Museum post box! Next head to the Croke Park Cabin to meet the Bainisteoir of Christmas himself- Santa! You can take a photo with Santa and tell him about your predictions for the 2024 GAA All-Ireland Championship! Here, every child will receive a small GAA-themed gift and photos will also be available to purchase if you wish, or you can capture your own!
Santa's Enchanted Forest Christmas Experience
Luggwoods | November 24th - December 23rd, 2023
Santa’s Enchanted Forest Walk of Wonder truly is a sight to behold. The Twinkling lights and Seasonal Magic fills the air as you walk the Majestic trail before you meet Santa at his Luggwoods Log Cabin
Skating Blanchardstown
Blanchardstown | Until January 28th, 2024
Ice Skating Blanchardstown returns in 2023 to Millenium Park, with access to the park behind the McDonalds Drive-Thru. They can’t wait to welcome the same fantastic skaters that join them year after year and welcome lots of new ones too!
| Fermanagh |
Christmas at Share Village
Share Discovery Village, Enniskillen | Until 4th January 2023
Introducing a brand new Christmas experience at Share Discovery Village including the return of Share Village on Ice, Santa’s Magical Village, a Christmas Themed Escape Room and Festive Willow Wreath Making and take advantage of their festive Christmas packages to enjoy some afternoon-tea with an activity.
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| Galway |
Christmas at Brigit's Garden
Brigit's Garden, Rosscahill | 3rd, 4th, 7th – 11th & 14th – 18th December, 2023
Celebrate the real meaning of Christmas with the emphasis on light, love and warmth at this dark time of year and have some family fun too. Although there is no show this year, your general admission includes full access to the Celtic Gardens and nature walks a jolly holly treasure hunt, each child gets a small wooden Christmas decoration to colour-in at home, each family will be given a special candle to light on Christmas Eve, vsit the beautifully lit Christmas Wish Tree in the Hazel Room and hang your special Christmas wishes or memories of loved ones.
Magical Interactive Winter Wonderland
Loughwell Farm | Weekends until December, 17th
Step into a sparkling Winter Wonderland to meet Santa & all his elves who will keep the children busy in Winter Wonderland with singing, dancing, elfapet learning and cookie decorating. In addition to the magical Winter Wonderland, there are acres of indoor & outdoor fun to be had in the rest of the farm. In the large play barn, there is a huge indoor play structure with slides built for both adults and children. Outdoors there are many activities to entertain including mini-golf, playgrounds and happy hoppers.
Puss in Boots
Town Hall Theatre | December 29th - January 14th, 2024
When the Wicked Witch Bogzilla is rejected by King Barney, she transforms him into an Ogre and wreaks havoc on his beloved Kingdom. However, all may not be lost.
With enough trickery and charm from an amazing talkative cat and the good services of the kind Fairy Cakes, watch the characters undertake their fight for justice to restore harmony to their haven and save their King.
Christmas Market
Slieve Aughty Centre | November 26th & December 3rd & 10th, 11:00 - 16:00
Do not miss out on the festive atmosphere at Slieve Aughty with a fantastic array of crafts and goodies over three weekends. The Cafe will also have festive treats available.
Christmas at Turoe Pet Farm
Turoe Pet Farm | Friday, Saturday & Sunday, November 24th - December 23rd, 2023
Enjoy the magic of Christmas in Turoe Pet Farm. Explore the wonderful setting and savior the festive atmosphere with friends and family. Meet Santa at his Grotto with your family. As part of your Christmas experience in Turoe each child will receive a Token which will let them choose one present from Santa’s Shop
Don’t forget to bring your letter for Santa to be posted in Santa special post box.
Elf Town
Galway Racecourse | Various dates up to December 23rd, 2023
Elf Town is a two hour Christmas experience set over three different buildings with the magical journey itself set over four floors, where at the end, you and your family get a private visit with Santa.
This year, every child will receive an Elf Town branded gift pack with an official invite from Santa to Elf Town addressed to the children, our unique Golden ticket and a map of Elf Town. Santa will also include a personalised postcard for each child thanking them for visiting Elf Town. This will arrive by post from Santa himself before your booking date.
| Kerry |
Santa's Winter Wonderland
Crag Cave | December 2023
Meet Santa, his elves, his reindeer, see the snow scenes, his bedroom, polar bears, toyshop, have a go on an animated reindeer ride, playtime in Crazy Cave and lots lots more.
| Kildare |
Pantos at The Moat | Goldie Locks and the Three Bears
The Moat Theatre | November 30th - 9th December, 2023
When Goldilocks stumbles into the home of the three bears she finds tasty porridge, comfortable chairs and a bed that is just right. But she also discovers a lot more. Will the greedy factory builders manage to destroy the forest? Will the three bears manage to keep their home? A Panto filled with fun, dance, music and laughter as Goldilocks and the three bears try to save the day!
| Kilkenny |
Watergate Theatre Panto | Aladdin
Watergate Theatre | January 3rd - 7th & 10th - 14th, 2024
Join a magical carpet ride through a genie-us panto bursting at the seams with hilarious characters, dazzling scenery, costumes and of course all your favourite showstoppers! You can also enjoy Goldilocks and The Three Bears, Elfie Saves Christmas & The Grinch festive shows before Christmas.
Christmas at Discovery Park
Castlecomer | December, 2023
Christmas at Castlecomer Discovery Park Christmas is always a special time and the park will be for winter walks and lots more fun activities to help burn off some pre or post Christmas nervous energy.
Jurassic Newpark Christmas Experience
Newpark Hotel | Wednesday to Sunday until Saturday 23rd December
Cheeky elves, magic reindeer, and dashing dinosaurs combine at the newly launched Santa Experience at Jurassic Newpark at Newpark Hotel in Kilkenny. The family friendly experience offers plenty of entertainment including a ‘Santasaurus Show’ at The Dino Den, Christmas Storytelling & fun and games with the Mrs. Claus, complimentary hot chocolate, festive face painting, helping elves in the toy workshop, a live nativity crib and much more. Tickets also include a complimentary 30-minute session on Jurassic Bounce covered jump zone, free play in the playground and adventure trail, time to roam around seeing giant animatronic dinosaurs, fairy trail and wildlife petting farm
| Laois |
Elfie Saves Christmas
Dunamaise Arts Center | Various times 17th - 21st December, 2024
It’s Christmas Eve at the North Pole. Santa and his merry helpers are getting ready to deliver presents to all the good boys and girls around the world. But when Elfie, Santa’s favourite elf, meets Slyck and Hoblin the mischievous Goblins, things don’t quite go according to plan! Suddenly it’s up to Elfie to save Christmas but he needs your help too!
Come and join in the fun and help Elfie save the day in this totally tinsel adventure that reminds us there’s room for everyone on Santa’s “nice” list.
| Leitrim |
Christmas in Carrick-on-Shannon
Market Yard | December 2024
Each Saturday and Sunday, December 9th, 10th, 16th & 17th there will be Santa’s Grotto, Murray’s amusements, music and carol singing, 'Meet Me in the People's Park' (December 15th), markets featuring local produce and crafts and it all starts with the Light Parade and turning on the lights on December 2nd. Fun for all the family while you shop local!
| Limerick |
Sleeping Beauty | UCH Panto
University Concert Hall | December 18th - 14th January, 2024
Sleeping Beauty will see Panto favourites, including Richie Hayes & Myles Breen, along with some fun new faces, come together for a show packed with comedy, music, glitz, glamour and a heroine that thinks nothing of nodding off mid show (we might need to have a word with her!).
| Longford |
Robyn Hood and Her Fabulous Females
Backstage Theatre l 20th - 28th January 2023.
Some extra girl power for after Christmas, as the story from Sherwood Forest gets a modern gender-swap makeover!
Meet Robyn Hood, Allana Dale, Jill Scarlet, Petite Jane and Sister Tuck as they try to steal from the rich and avoid the wicked Sheriff of Nottingham and her deputies. But when Sherwood Forest comes under threat from an unscrupulous developer, can the former enemies work together to save the day?
| Louth |
Christmas at Bellurgan Park
Bellurgan Park | Selected dates 8th - 23rd December, 2023
Santa will be lodging at Bellurgan Park House, where the original Georgian period features and the halls will be decked with thousands of sparkling lights, Christmas trees, holly wreaths and ivy from the estate. This makes the perfect setting for a traditional Christmas and an enchanting experience for children and adults alike.
Snow White
TLT Theatre | December 16th - January 7th, 2024
The Wicked Queen is horrified to discover that her stepdaughter Snow White is in fact the most gorgeous in the Land and sets a dastardly plan in motion to rid the land of the beautiful Princess. Will Snow White and her madcap pals defeat the Deadly Queen? Will Snow While fall for the Handsome Prince?
| Mayo |
Winter Wonderland Westport House
Westport House | Select dates from November 18th to December 23rd
Westport House and grounds are transformed into a beautiful, festive, magical atmosphere all complete with awe-inspiring decorations and real snow! Meet the Elves and visit Santa one-on-one in his Grotto in the snow-dusted wooded Tinsel Town! Ride the Wonderland Express Train around Westport Estate and take in the decorations.
Hop off at stunning Westport House where you can meet Mrs Claus and be sure to take a family picture under the giant Christmas Tree.
| Meath |
Winter Wonderland
Navan Adventure Centre | December 2nd, 9th, 10th, 16th & 17th
Take a stroll down our elf village and pop into our elf houses to create amazing Christmas decorations and play games! Grotto meet and greet with Santa including gift for every child. (Our Elf village is under cover)
Emerald Park Christmas Experience
Emerald Park | Various until December 23rd, 2023
An Emerald Park Christmas Experience ticket includes a trip through Elf-land to meet Santa’s elves who are preparing for Christmas, a magical visit with Santa Claus and a special present, plus all day park and zoo entry with unlimited access to our Junior Zone attractions.
Disco Kids Christmas Show
The Venue | December 17th
Bring your little ones along for an unforgettable experience filled with holiday cheer. The special guest will bring the magic of Christmas to life through music, games, and lots of laughter. So put on your dancing shoes and get ready to boogie!
Santa at The Ark Playcentre, Puddenhill
The Ark Playcentre | December 16th & 17th 2023
All families enter into the animal farm and see the crib. Then the kids can play outside (weather permitted) or inside in the warm play centre. There will be hot and cold food as well as tea & coffee while you wait until its your families turn to visit santa.
In the grotto the kids meet the elves in their workshop, see where the they sleep and get some reindeer food. They then get to have a chat with Mrs Clause, before meeting the man himself.
| Monaghan |
Santa in the Tin Church
Tin Church, Laragh | 26th November, 2024
A private family visit with Santa Claus in the magical Tin Church, take a family picture in Santa's Sleigh, post your letter to Santa in the North Pole post box, visit Christmas Cottage - stir the Christmas Pudding and make your wish, story time with Mrs Claus and lots more in support of the Laragh Heritage Community Group.
Charity Winter Wonderland Christmas
Errigal | 15th & 16th December, 2023
A exciting winter trail (approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to complete, markets and refreshments) with toasted marshmallows, crafts, live music, Santa visit and Festive gift for all children and a Christmas Market includes an option to purchase mulled wine, hot chocolate and hot food (Please bring cash as no card machine available). All children must be accompanied by a adult.
Crocus Christmas Market & Santa's Grotto
The Diamond | 15th & 16th December, 2023
Enjoy a Christmas market on Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th December in The Diamond, Monaghan town centre from 11am - 6pm each day. There are plenty of stalls with a variety of offerings to get you in the Christmas mood and maybe pick up a nice little present for someone (or yourself)! There will also be plenty going on to keep the kids entertained with pièce de résistance being the chance to pay a visit to Santa and Mrs. Claus in the grotto
| Offaly |
Christmas Elf Trail
Birr Castle Gardens & Science Centre | 8th December, 2023 – 7th January, 2023 (except 25 & 26 Dec and 1 Jan)
Festive fun searching for our resident Elf & Reindeer’s lost name in the gardens. Pick up your trail & pencil at reception, & head off in search of the letters. Little sweet treat at the end if you complete your North Pole Mission! Included in regular admission.
A Christmas School Tour with Santa
Playtown, Tullamore | December, 2023
Three levels of imagination & creativity awaits teachers & children alike this Christmas in a very festive Playtown Tullamore. Santa will even be on hand to greet them off their bus & lead them into Playtown Tullamore for a three hour school tour like no other.
| Roscommon |
Christmas at Strokestown | The Victorian Christmas Experience
Strokestown Park | Various until December 22nd, 2023
Santa’s mischievous head elf will guide all who love Christmas both young and old on a magical festive adventure through Strokestown Park House. The magic of Christmas will be brought to life for you and your family, as they transform their Palladian Mansion into a wonderous and festive setting to experience all the traditional charm and magic of times past.
Santa's Underground Grotto
Arigna Mining Experiencee | Weekends to 17th December
Meet Santa in his underground grotto, a truly unique Christmas experience. Enjoy the illuminated winter Alpine landscape, visit the Elves workshop and see the elves busy at work wrapping presents for Santa and enjoy an entertainment show.
| Sligo |
Santatown
Sligo Folk Park | 9, 10, 16 & 17 December, 2023
Whether you meet Santa and tell him all of your wishes or listen to Christmas stories told by his dear wife Mrs. Claus, it will surely be a Christmas to remember.
You can visit the elves in their workshop and create some magical memories. Post your Christmas letter to the North pole, get cuddly with Santa's furry little friends or have fun with our activities and arts & crafts.
| Tipperary |
Santa at Tearaways
Tearaways Pet Farm & Activity Centre | December 16th & 17th, 2023
Childrens tickets include three hours of indoor & outdoor playtime, a visit to Santa & a selection box. Santa's elf will be happy to take a photo too, so please bring your phone / camera.
| Tyrone |
Christmas Family Fun | The Burnavon
Burnavon | December 2023- January 2024
There is plenty on offer this Christmas in the Burnavon with family shows including Carol & Jimmy's Christmas Cracker, A Christmas Gift From The Sperrin Choir, Fairytale Christmas with the Mid-Ulster School of Music, Mr Hullabaloo's Winter Wonderland as well as Christmas Wreath Making workshop and a Personalised Santa Plate Workshop all before the Peter Pan The Panto starts in January!
| Waterford |
Santa's Enchanted Christmas
National 1798 Centre | Various until December 23rd, 2023
The purpose-built experience with seasonal scenes incorporates special effects like sound and snow, creative graphics and an illuminated, winter-themed, exterior setting. There will be plenty elements of surprise as you enter the multi-room, magical spaces, featuring pop-up, theatrical, live characters to meet along the way. Mrs Claus and her elves & gnomes will entertain and transport the kids towards Santa to receive their seasonal gift. A magical time is to be had for all!
All ticket holders for Santa’s Enchanted Christmas in the 1798 Centre also receive free entry to the Elves walk through workshop at Enniscorthy Castle!
Krinkletown
The Workhouse, Kilmacthomas | Until December 23rd, 2023
Santa is set to return to Coach House Coffee this year, but 2023 is set to be event better than ever. Santa and his merry team are determined to pull out all the stops despite the odds to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience! KringleTown is a magical indoor/outdoor Christmas Event including Market Stalls, the 'K.Kringle Christmas Emporium' & of course the KringleTown Santa Experience
Waterford Winterval
Waterford | Until December 23rd, 2023
Brought to you by Waterford City and County Council, Winterval 2023 will see the return of lots of the original attractions like Santa’s arrival to Waterford, Winterval On Ice, the Port of Waterford Eye, The Helter Skelter and The Carousel; newer events like the Winterval Circus, Glow, and the Lego Exhibition, and magical reimaginations of so many of the festival favourites including a multi-dimensional light show, European-style Winterval food and craft markets and a packed programme of live music and performances.
Enchanted Garden Winter Light Festival
Lafcadio Hearn Japanese Gardens | December 1st - December 31st, 2023.
This amazing winter wonderland at the Lafcadio Hearn Japanese Gardens, Pond Road Tramore are lit at night by a sea of twinkling lights, animal sculptures and dramatic tree and foliage lighting, all creating a magical winter wonderland. Now in it's 8th year, visitors young and not so young are spellbound as they walk via a one way system through the gardens and are met at every turn by stunning displays.
The Santa Express
Waterford Suir Valley Railway | various until December 23rd, 2022
You set off on an exciting journey on a real train beside Waterford Greenway and by the majestic River Suir to meet Mrs. Claus and friends in the Magic Wood. The Fairies in the Magic Wood have been busy making the magic dust to help Santa find your house on Christmas night. Mrs. Claus has some for every child. On return to the station, enjoy a hot chocolate and Mrs. Claus’s home baked treats at the Whistlestop Café until Santa calls you to visit him in Santa’s Railway Cottage.
| Westmeath |
Visit Santa at Belvedere House
Belvedere House & Gardens | December 9, 10, 16, 17, 22 & 23 2023
Enjoy exploring the wonderful 160-acre estate with woodland walks, lakeshore trails, play areas and a Victorian Walled Garden whie also visiting Santa and his elves in the Boathouse and receiving a special gift .You can stay and book Land of Light too; an outdoor illuminated walking trail event that combines the use of nature and technology to provide a spectacle of lights, music and performance for attendees of all ages!
Santa at Mollies
Mollie Moo's Pet Farm | Weekends in December & Wednesday 23rd, 2023
A fun, festive day out on the farm where children get a bag of food to feed the animals as they make their way over to visit Santa and receive a present, have fun with the elves and drop off their Santa letter in the special North Pole Postbox!.
| Wexford |
Rapunzel and the League of Princesses
National Opera House | January 17th - 21st, 2024
The perfect start to the New Year for all the family as the Wexford Pantomine Society return with Rapunzel and the League of Princesses; the ultimate girl power story that has never been told before. Join the heroes Rapunzel, Cinderella and Snow White as they team up to rescue their Princes and defeat the evil Gothel whose goal it is to destroy all happy ever afters.
This laugh a minute adventure is awash with great songs, dances and jokes and features a chorus of 110 local children and an all-star Wexford cast.
Magical Christmas Experience
Kia Ora Mini Farm | November 24th - December 23rd, 2023
Enjoy a special visit with Santa, Mrs. Claus and the reindeer along with the mischievous elves. Each child will have lots of time to tell Santa their Christmas wishes before picking their own present from the Giant Gift Room, singing lots of festive tunes on the famous fire engine and enjoying the updated animated musical light display. All the usual attractions will be also be open including gokarts, milking cow, maze, real diggers and lots more.
| Wicklow |
Christmas Island
Hidden Valley Holiday Park | November 24th - December 23rd, 2023 | Every Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday & Wednesday Dec 20th
An exciting Christmas experience starts with a journey on The North Pole Express, includes a special trip on Santa's House Boat and features lots of fun and entertainment with Santa's elves and this year you can also try the new Winter Downhill Tubing.
Meet Santa & his Ponies
Festina Lente | December 9th & 10th, 2023
A wonderful festive Christmas event this December in Festina Lente.
Tickets include a visit with Santa to receive a present, meet and greet the Miniature Ponies and enjoy a pony ride around the garden. Hot Chocolate on Sale onsite for €2.
This article was first published on RTE.ie/Lifestyle
