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Preparations are underway for the  most wonderful time of the year as Cork City Council announces the return of Corkmas , the city’s annual Christmas celebration. From 14 November to 31 December 2025 , Cork City will be alive with festive sights, sounds, and flavours - from the spectacular Corkmas Parade and bustling Christmas Markets to the enchanting Santa Experience and the return of the iconic Ferris Wheel on Grand Parade. Corkmas 2025 - key dates for your diary: - 14 November: Corkmas Parade -   21 November: Opening of the Festive Markets, Emmett Place - 28 November: Opening of the Santa Experience, Emmett Place - 28 November: Opening of the Ferris Wheel, Grand Parade The celebrations begin on Friday 14 November , when the Corkmas Parade fills the city with light, music, and wonder from 7.00pm to 8.00pm . Returning for its second year, the parade will feature dazzling floats, marching bands, performers, and of course, a very special visit from Santa Claus , marking the traditional switching on of Cork’s Christmas lights. Families can then enjoy the Christmas Market and Santa Experience at Emmett Place , open Thursday to Sunday from 21 November through December , offering festive food, handmade gifts, and magical memories for all ages. Meanwhile, the iconic Ferris Wheel and vintage carousel will once again take pride of place on Grand Parade from 28 November , offering unbeatable views of the city’s winter wonderland. Adding to the magic, performances will animate weekends throughout December at the new Counting House Plaza on South Main Street and the newly unwrapped Bishop Lucey Park . Lord Mayor of Cork, Fergal Dennehy , said:  “There’s a special kind of magic in Cork at Christmas, a warmth and togetherness that makes the city truly shine. Corkmas brings people of all ages into the heart of the city to celebrate what makes this time of year so special. It’s about community, connection, and supporting the local businesses, artists and craftspeople who help keep Cork’s festive spirit alive. Merry Corkmas, one and all!” With more details to be revealed in the coming weeks, get ready for a magical start to the festive season as Corkmas transforms the city into a celebration of light, joy, and togetherness. Whether it’s your first time experiencing the magic or a cherished annual tradition, Corkmas 2025 promises unforgettable moments for all.   For further information, visit : www.corkmas.ie

Looking for a festive day out with a touch of history, music, and generosity? Mark your calendars for Sunday, December 7th , as Spike Island hosts its annual Charity Christmas Concert ! The concert is a highlight of the season and is a beautiful way to embrace the spirit of giving. What’s On Set in the Mitchel Hall on Spike Island, this year’s concert features the talented Sonatinas Choir , led by the acclaimed conductor Rachel O’Brien . Their repertoire of holiday classics is sure to bring out the best of Christmas cheer. The day offers much more than music: Ferry Ride to Spike Island : Your ticket includes a ferry journey courtesy of Doyle Shipping Group. Self-Guided Tour : Before or after the concert, take some time to wander through Spike Island, exploring the fortress and its past. Refreshments : Thanks to Centra Cobh, enjoy complimentary food and drinks, perfect for warming up after a stroll around the island. A Good Cause : All proceeds from the event will go to The Park Road Day Care Centre in Cobh , supporting their invaluable work within the community. When The event will take place on Sunday, December 8th on Spike Island, accessible by ferry which leaves Kennedy Pier in Cobb at 2:15pm. Tickets are €20 per person, including ferry transportation, concert admission, and access to the island, and are available for purchase now. Be sure to book early, as spaces are limited! For more details and bookings, visit the official Spike Island website .

The Guinness Storehouse announces “ My Goodness! It’s Christmas ,” a new seasonal offering promising seven floors of festive magic by day, plus a brand-new nighttime experience with   Love Tempo   and   BIGFAN , becoming Dublin’s ultimate Christmas destination. Visitors to the Guinness Storehouse by day can stop by the cozy Snug N0.0llaig pop-up, reimagined as a vinyl listening lounge, to sample Guinness 0.0 whilst enjoying great tunes. As night falls, Gravity Bar transforms into an unforgettable bookable festive experience, ‘Christmas Nights at Gravity’ Combining spectacular 360-degree panoramic views with electrifying sets from Ireland’s finest DJs, craft cocktails and festive bites, the Guinness Storehouse is proud to collaborate with Dublin 8 neighbours and beloved music-led bar Love Tempo and local favourite BIGFAN from 14th – 29th November, just in time for Christmas get-togethers. Love Tempo’s cocktail menu is set to make a return featuring two new cocktails with a distinctive Guinness twist including a Plum Pudding Old Fashioned with Guinness spiced syrup and an Apricot & Sage Paloma. Adding an exciting culinary dimension, Michelin Guide restaurant BIGFAN will introduce an exclusive festive bites menu for “Christmas Nights at Gravity”. Renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, neon lights, and buzzing soundtrack, BIGFAN is set to unveil five exclusive, off-menu dishes infused with unique Guinness flavours Don’t miss the Dan-Dan Savoury Doughnut, offering an unexpected umami infused surprise, the 1759 Duck Cone packed with crispy aromatic duck, topped with fragrant chilli oil and Guinness and Soy-infused Scallop Barrel Roll. “Christmas Nights at Gravity” takes place across select nights in November (14th, 15th, 21st, 22nd and 29th), with further dates to be announced. Tickets are €55 per person and include entry to the Gravity Bar with Love Tempo DJs, Apricot & Sage Paloma on arrival, choice of a Guinness or Guinness 0.0 pint as well as three dishes from BIGFAN’s festive bites menu including Dan-Dan Savoury Doughnut, 1759 Duck Cone and Scallop Barrel Roll. For tickets visit https://www.guinness-storehouse.com/en/visit/christmas

While selection boxes have adorned supermarket shelves since September, the festive season is finally in full swing. To mark the occasion, I brought the family to Santa in the Sky at Epic. This is within the Epic Museum at CHQ in the IFSC, Dublin 1, during November and December. I kept the Santa piece a secret and explained we were off to learn history on the weekend. Clearly excited when a friendly elf greeted them with boarding cards and passports, we stepped into the vaulted labyrinth of EPIC – The Irish Emigration Museum. Patrons can skip the exhibitions and go straight to the festive land of Santa and his helpers, but I urge you not to and to factor in time to explore Ireland’s history brought to life in a state-of-the-art interactive way. Any school-going child will have context for the plight of the Irish, but this lifts static history out of the textbooks and brings it to life, that kids and adults will find fascinating and very moving. While much of the earlier history would have been stored in the recesses of my mind: the Penal Laws, the Great Famine, the coffin ships – I’m now at an age where moments I recalled from my childhood were relived on the big screen, from Sonia O’Sullivan’s Olympic Medal win, Mary Robinson’s inuguration and Italia ’90 where Ireland made the quater-finals in the World Cup. It also covers everything in between – the decades of our grandparents and parents’ lives and the sheer volume of people who left our shores and hoped for fortune and a better future anywhere but here. I would have known the draw of the UK, the USA and Australia. I had little idea that so many also made the likes of Canada and Argentina their home. From a sorrowful past, to sporting prowess and world leaders with strong Irish heritage – it is a fantastic and often moving experience for young and old. The Main Event This Season After exploring the museum at our leisure, we embraced the festivities of the Santa experience. Children begin with colouring and reindeer food-making stations. Kids can craft letters at the post office and post the letters to the North Pole (remember to snap a picture of the letter before it goes in the post so your darling can remember what he or she asked for). Storytelling by the elves in a cosy nook sets the mood before boarding Reindeer Airways to visit the man in red. Clearly excited for the season, this was Santa at his very, very best. He answered every random question, knew every name, kept each kid laughing and gave some sage advice. I haven’t seen him in better form anywhere else. Despite ages ranging from a wonder-filled six to an oh-so-cool thirteen, everyone really enjoyed the experience and the (quite fancy) fluffy friends for each child were a welcome treat as we departed. For the adults, the elves, Santa, and staff are caring and friendly. The gentle pace and personal touch made this memorable for all the right reasons. There were no queues or a feeling of being rushed. Families get a buzzer to indicate when Santa is ready, and up to that point, there is plenty of time to explore, colour, craft or find a cosy spot for a story. During the chat with Santa, an expert photographer (Simon Archer) captures the mood with each family getting a mounted photograph as a memento and the option for more photos or copies if desired (cost a nominal extra fee). The Verdict – The Santa is the Real Deal & the Experience was Epic Young kids will adore this. Parents will enjoy it. Older kids who might be borderline for this kind of experience will still get so much out of the state-of-the-art museum and interactive exhibits. This really caters for the whole family and everyone of us loved it. Booking Online Book online at Santa in the Sky at EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum – on for selected dates in November and December 2025. It is really great value – a family of four (2 adults + 2 kids aged 6-12) going to the EPIC museum would cost €53. The Santa in the Sky at EPIC costs €86 for the same family. It is really well worth it and a fascinating and fantastical experience. My family spent 45 minutes at the museum and 45 minutes at the Santa experience (but could easily have spent longer). Getting There Plenty of public transport links with Connolly Station a 2-minute walk, the Luas Red Line from The Point or from Tallaght passes by the doors and, for those of you up from the country like myself, there is an IFSC Q-Park car park around the corner (there is even a discount code for the parking – here )

Welcome to the most lush and cosy hotel in the capital: The Trinity City Hotel , located in the heart of Dublin city- the perfect stay for city explorers, business travellers, romantic stays and family getaways. This Irish-owned hotel is distinctively furnished with imaginative interiors, contemporary rooms, strong wifi, excellent food and decadent cocktails. Their team of award-winning staff are on hand to get you what you need, when you need it. And if all this wasn’t enough, when you book direct on trinitycityhotel.com you’ll also receive a complimentary glass of Prosecco on arrival! The Location The 262-room hotel occupies a legendary location, opposite The Trinity College Dublin. You’ll find Dublin on your doorstep, with Grafton Street shopping, Temple Bar restaurants and nightlife, St Stephen’s Green Park and O’Connell Street shopping all within a short distance. The hotel combines urban elegance with contemporary comforts, situating you in the heart of Dublin’s transport hub, allowing you to walk to the city centre within minutes with connections to South and North County Dublin only steps away. The Rooms During your stay at The Trinity City Hotel, you have a list of choices in your accommodation preferences. Every room comes with state-of-the-art coffee machines, Ritual bathrooms amenities alongside a range of other comforts including individually controlled air-conditioning, complimentary 200MB Wi-Fi for multiple devices, blackout curtains and flat-screen TVs alongside 24-hour room service.   The Contemporary Room The Contemporary Room is designed for the city explorer, with contemporary comforts and urban simplicity .  You can rest your feet after a day out in Dublin in the Queen-sized bed or make room to share with a choice of Twin (two single beds) or Triple (Queen and single bed) occupancy.   The Deluxe Double The Deluxe Double is perfect for a romantic couple break, these rooms are bigger with premium comforts that include rainforest showers. Each Deluxe Bedroom features a Queen-sized bed or Twin beds (two single beds), so you’ll have the space to fully unwind whether alone or with company!   Deluxe King with Balcony If you’re looking for a birds-eye view of Dublin, you can upgrade to the Deluxe King with Balcony. With all the gorgeous comforts of the Deluxe rooms, you can also enjoy the extra space overlooking Trinity College and cosy up with complimentary fluffy bathrobes & slippers!   Executive Rooms If you’re looking for a more spacious, stylish room in the heart of Dublin City then the Executive Room at The Trinity City Hotel is perfect for indulgence! Executive Rooms feature either a King-sized bed or a King and Single bed, individually controlled air conditioning and a whole range of urban comforts that will help you to unwind or get ready for a night out! Some of these rooms are located in the historic part of the hotel where the Victorian Central Fire Station was once located, so you’ll be enjoying modern day comforts in a legendary location! Georgian Suites The Georgian Suites at The Trinity City Hotel are demonstrative of the legendary location and unique style on offer throughout this centrally located space. The Suites are spacious, with high ceilings and full-length windows adorned with beautifully handmade curtains and pelmets crafted from luxurious fabrics. The Georgian Architectural features are on display throughout the room that sleeps four; with luxuriously designed bathrooms with marble finishes, featuring large walk-in showers and double-basin vanity units. The suites also feature a grooming station which is thoughtfully designed for comfort and convenience. It features a shelf for personal items and a full-length mirror bathed in natural light from the large windows. Dining At The Trinity City Hotel, you’re spoiled for choice on the doorstep of Dublin’s Temple Bar and Grafton Street Quarter district but this hotel also offers a wide variety of options for breakfast, lunch and dinner in their cosy and elegant restaurant and bar areas. The Courtyard Restaurant Wind down or catch up in the spacious, light-filled, indoor Courtyard Restaurant. The team of chefs at The Trinity City Hotel use local and seasonal produce so you can experience the very best Irish cooking, matched with a carefully selected wine list. There are tasty options for vegetarian and vegan preferences as well as a children’s menu! Their cosy heated Courtyard Garden offers a welcome retreat from the bustle of the city where you can enjoy outdoor dining and delicious cocktails. Whether it’s a family meal, a business lunch meeting, an overdue catch-up with friends or a romantic night out; enjoy fuss-free dining to suit your occasion! Lunch served between 12:00pm - 4:30pm, daily. Dinner served between 5:00pm - 9:30pm, daily. Book here !   Brunswick Lounge You can also choose to dine for lunch or dinner at the recently refurbished Brunswick Bar and Lounge. Here, you can absorb the ambience from the downtown corner of the city as you catch up with friends, family and colleagues.  Menus offer the classics as well as chefs’ favourites, tailored to suit all ages and preferences! Enjoy a perfectly poured Guinness, expertly crafted cocktail or revitalizing coffee before (or after) you head out to explore all that Dublin City has to offer! Stop in for lunch or dinner, served from 12pm to 9:30pm, book here Current Offers

The GAA Museum are delighted to announce the return of Santa to Croke Park for 2025. A team from North Pole GAA are setting up a training camp in Croke Park, and they’d love you to visit as they prepare for their special journey around the world on Christmas Eve! During the Croke Park Santa Experience, you will peek inside the North Pole GAA Elf Dressing Rooms, before entering their Skills Zone, where you can play a ‘cool’ selection of fun, festive games.  Then it will be time to step into Santa’s very special Croke Park cabin to meet the man himself. Mrs Claus will be there to help you get in the festive spirit too. You can take a photo with Santa and tell him about your predictions for the 2026 GAA All-Ireland Championships! Every child will receive a small gift at the North Pole GAA Gifting Station, and photos will also be available to purchase, if you wish. During the Santa Experience, you will be part of a group and will be joined by other people. But every ticket booking will have a chance to meet Santa on their own for an individual photo. Photos can be purchased separately at the end of the visit, or you are welcome to take your own pictures. Tickets include access to the GAA Museum where you can explore two floors of GAA exhibits. While you’re in the museum, make sure to collect a Cúchulainn Christmas quest trail booklet and find where some elves are hiding throughout the museum. If you’re successful, you’ll receive a prize for your excellent explorative efforts! Younger visitors can call into our Cú Chulainn’s Den play area, and everyone will enjoy our newly refurbished interactive games area. Here you can test your football, hurling and camogie skills! This year, visitors can also take time out should they need it in our brand new 'Cú Chulainn’s Corner Sensory Space'. For the last two time slots on each day, please visit the GAA Museum in advance of the Santa Experience - see their FAQ's for more info. Additional Information Santa will arrive at Croke Park on Saturday November 29 th and the Santa Experience will run on selected dates until Tuesday December 23rd. The experience lasts 50 minutes and is wheelchair and buggy accessible. Free parking is available outside the GAA Museum, which is located on the Cusack Stand side of Croke Park. It is recommended that you check the FAQ section and Terms and Conditions before making your booking. All tickets must be pre-booked online in advance. Tickets cannot be purchased on the day.

At Galgorm Collection, Northern Ireland’s premier group of luxury hotels, spas, and award-winning restaurants, Christmas is not just a date on the calendar – it’s an experience to be savoured. From starlit spa dips to festive feasts, lakeside reflections to fireside indulgence, every property has been lovingly prepared to wrap you in the warmth, sparkle, and magic of the season. Whether celebrating with family, friends, or a special someone, here, Christmas truly is all around. Galgorm 136 Fenaghy Road, Ballymena, Co. Antrim, BT42 1EA Set across 450 acres of frost-kissed parkland, Galgorm glistens like a festive postcard as the River Maine meanders past open fire bowls and twinkling lights. Guests are greeted by the warm glow of the Thermal Spa Village, where steam rises from outdoor pools, and the Chandelier Garden invites cosy gatherings over mulled wine and toasted marshmallows. Fires crackle in grand lounges, seasonal afternoon tea tempts the senses, and the joyful laughter of families fills every corner with festive cheer. Experience a Christmas Eve to Boxing Day celebration like no other Winter Wonderland: 24   – 26 December | From £845 per person sharing | £250 per child under 12 Set across 450 acres of frost-kissed parkland, Galgorm glistens like a festive postcard as the River Maine meanders past open fire bowls and twinkling lights. Guests are greeted by the warm glow of the Thermal Spa Village, where steam rises from outdoor pools, and the Chandelier Garden invites cosy gatherings over mulled wine and toasted marshmallows. Fires crackle in grand lounges, seasonal afternoon tea tempts the senses, and the joyful laughter of families fills every corner with festive cheer. Christmas Eve Arrive to a welcome of festive cocktails and canapés. The scent of cinnamon, pine, and mulled wine fills the air as you wander through twinkling gardens and cosy lounges. Sip afternoon tea by the fireside, unwind in the Thermal Spa Village with steam rising from outdoor pools, or enjoy laughter-filled family time in the pool. As dusk falls, toast s’mores over the Mulberry Garden fire while the glow of fairy lights reflects off frost-dusted trees, before settling in for Christmas Eve dinner with after-dinner entertainment in McKendry’s Lounge & Bar. Christmas Day Christmas morning begins with a traditional Irish breakfast and Bucks Fizz, followed by a visit from Father Christmas. After a winter stroll through the sparkling grounds, enjoy a sumptuous five-course Christmas lunch, festive games, films, and live music, leaving every guest wrapped in seasonal magic. Boxing Day Boxing Day offers a leisurely breakfast and one last spa dip before departing with hearts full of festive joy. Find out more at https://www.galgorm.com/winter-wonderland.html   Celebrate Christmas in the privacy of your own winter retreat Lodging in a Winter Wonderland: 24 – 26 December | From £845 per person sharing | available in forest dens, shepherd’s huts, cottage suites, and log cabins Lodge in the heart of Galgorm’s twinkling parkland and experience the magic of Christmas in your own private sanctuary. Nestled amidst frost-kissed trees and glimmering lights, each Forest Den, Shepherd’s Hut, Cottage Suite, or Log Cabin offers a cosy haven away from the festive bustle. Inside, roaring fires, plush linens, and gentle seasonal touches wrap you in warmth, while outside, the River Maine winds through snow-dusted grounds and the Chandelier Garden sparkles under a canopy of stars. Christmas Eve Arrive to a festive welcome, where the scent of cinnamon and mulled wine fills the air and the estate glows with the warmth of the season. Take a winter stroll through the frost-tipped parkland or unwind in the Thermal Spa Village, where outdoor pools steam under twinkling lights. As evening falls, toast marshmallows over open flames in the Chandelier Garden, then gather for a three-course Christmas Eve dinner, each dish infused with seasonal flavours and festive cheer. After dinner, retire to your lodge for a quiet night by the fire or venture to McKendry’s Lounge & Bar for live music and evening entertainment. Christmas Day Wake to the joyful spirit of Christmas morning with a traditional Irish breakfast and a glass of Bucks Fizz, followed by a visit from Father Christmas bearing festive surprises. Spend the day surrounded by laughter and light - whether relaxing in the spa, exploring the wintry grounds, or indulging in a five-course Christmas lunch that celebrates the finest seasonal ingredients. The afternoon brings time for games, films, and cosy fireside moments, while the evening invites you to relax and reflect on a day filled with magic and togetherness. Boxing Day Ease into Boxing Day with a leisurely breakfast and one final spa dip before departure. As the frost begins to lift from the parkland, take in the serene beauty of Galgorm one last time, leaving with hearts full of warmth, joy, and cherished festive memories. Find out more at https://www.galgorm.com/lodging-in-a-winter-wonderland.html   Immerse yourself in festive warmth and Galgorm sparkle  Festive Favourite: Available from 10 November | From £160 per person sharing  From the moment you step into Galgorm, the air is filled with the gentle aroma of winter spices and festive treats, and the soft glow of twinkling lights reflects across the snow-dusted grounds. The Chandelier Garden invites you to curl up with a steaming mug of hot chocolate as toasted marshmallows crackle over open flames, while families and friends gather around festively decorated tables, sharing laughter and stories. In the Thermal Spa Village, steam rises gently from outdoor pools, and the warmth of saunas and bubbling hot tubs contrasts with the crisp winter air, offering a blissful retreat. Fires crackle in intimate lounges, festive music drifts through the corridors, and seasonal decorations infuse every corner with sparkling charm. Your overnight stay in a choice of Superior or Deluxe accommodation offers plush linens and cosy nooks, perfectly complemented by the festive touches of the season. As evening falls, a three-course dinner with a bottle of house wine awaits in Gillies Restaurant, Fratelli, or Castle Kitchen + Bar, where each dish is infused with seasonal flavours and festive charm. Awake the next morning to a full Irish breakfast, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingling with the wintry landscape outside your window, before a final stroll through sparkling parkland or another rejuvenating dip in the Thermal Spa Village. Available from 10 November to 23 December, prices start from £160 per person sharing, with Deluxe guestroom upgrades including a private spa experience from £175 per person sharing. Find out more at https://www.galgorm.com/festive-favourite.htm   To find out more about Christmas at Galgorm visit https://www.galgorm.com/christmas.html

This Christmas, the 5-star Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa in Killarney invites guests to experience festive hospitality high above the Lakes of Killarney. The hotel captures the magic of the season with Christmas Afternoon Tea, Festive Family Sunday Lunches, seasonal dining, spa treatments, and overnight stays framed by panoramic lake and mountain views. Additionally, just five minutes from the Christmas in Killarney festival, guests can also enjoy Santa’s Grotto, Reindeer Rides, Christmas markets, and the town’s famous Magic Parade. Christmas in Residence For those wishing to spend Christmas itself in residence, Aghadoe Heights offers a luxurious two- or three-night Residential Christmas Experience (from €1050), including a Christmas Eve cocktail reception, festive dining with carols and a visit from Santa, a lavish Christmas Day lunch, and a relaxing St. Stephen’s Day filled with spa time, scenic walks, and live evening entertainment. General Manager Brian Bowler says, “We invite guests to ‘Come to Ours’ for Christmas and embrace the wonder of the season in unparalleled style and comfort.” December stays start from €229 per night, with bookings via 064 6631766 or  www.aghadoeheights.com

This winter, Jurassic   Newpark  in Kilkenny is set to deliver the ultimate festive adventure - a place where twinkling lights, roaring dinosaurs and Santa’s elves come together in one magical mash-up of Christmas  wonder. Running from Saturday 22nd November to Tuesday 23rd December 2025, the attraction on the grounds of the  award-winning Newpark  Hotel invites visitors of all ages to step into a world of Christmas  wonder, where timeless traditions meet Jurassic -sized fun. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be swept up in the atmosphere — Christmas  music and sparkling lights, the scent of hot chocolate, and cheerful elves waiting to hand you a Festive Park Passport to guide your journey. Around every corner, something new sparkles into view: the North Pole Post Office, Santa’s Grotto, the Elf Academy, and the Jurassic  Express Train winding its way through a world where dinosaurs don Santa hats and fairy lights drape over prehistoric trees. Of course, the real magic happens when you meet Santa himself, tucked away in his cosy grotto surrounded by the glow of fairy lights. Every child receives a build a bear experience from Santa’s Workshop, along with reindeer food to scatter on Christmas  Eve and a gingerbread treat to decorate and take home.  From there, little helpers can roll up their sleeves to help the elves colour letters to Santa, and join in the interactive Elf Academy show at the Dino Den Theatre. You’ll have rosie cheeks just like Mr and Mrs Claus from all the dancing, laughter, and even a guest appearance from Paddy the Christmas  Dinosaur- a particularly rare breed of dinosaur typically found in the Arctic Circle!  Beyond the grotto, the park shimmers with festive touches. Families can follow the Christmas  Scavenger Trail, meet real reindeer, and wander through the Elf & Fairy Village under a canopy of twinkling lights. At the Jurassic  Snack Shack, steaming mugs of hot chocolate topped with marshmallows offer the perfect warm-up before a bounce in the covered Jurassic  Bounce Zone or a turn at the carnival games. And just when the excitement settles, there’s a moment of calm to be found at the live animal nativity, a beautiful reminder of the true spirit of Christmas .  With festive magic around every corner, and endless opportunities for family photos, this is a Christmas  experience designed to delight children and grown-ups alike. “Every corner of the park will sparkle with festive spirit,” says Niall Dunne, General Manager at The Newpark  Hotel. “From Santa’s grotto to the dancing dinosaurs, it’s all about creating magical memories that last long after Christmas  Day.” Tickets Tickets for The Jurassic   Newpark   Christmas  Experience must be pre-booked online at   www. jurassic newpark.com , with sessions running from 22nd November to 23rd December 2025. Optional family photos with Santa can be booked in advance or purchased on the day (subject to availability). As the experience is largely outdoors, visitors are encouraged to wrap up warm and prepare for a festive adventure whatever the weather! So gather the family, don your Christmas  jumpers, and prepare to make magical memories at Kilkenny’s most enchanting and unique festive experience — where Santa, elves, and dinosaurs come together to create a dino-mite Christmas  experience!

Things are already starting to cool down at Cork’s Marina Market, where tickets have just gone on sale for Santa’s Magical Market - The Big Freeze. The brand-new immersive Christmas experience takes place from 22 November to 23 December 2025! Brought to life by Cork-based TS Events – the team behind the sell-out Santa’s Magical Market  in 2023 – The Big Freeze  will transform the Marina Market into a snow-dusted Scandinavian-inspired winter wonderland, complete with icy forests, twinkling lights, and festive magic for all the family – even your dog. This year’s theme introduces a host of new interactive features, including a Frozen Forest and Ice Cave illuminated by a dazzling light show, a Snowy Valley home to an animatronic polar bear, and a whimsical snow village serving up seasonal sweet treats. Children can post letters at the North Pole Outpost, all while snow machines create a magical flurry overhead. The highlight for many will be a visit to Santa in his cosy log cabin. Families can capture the moment with professional photos, snow globes, keyrings, and keepsake prints by Peter P Photos. The experience is fully accessible, dog-friendly, and includes designated sensory-friendly hours – part of an ongoing commitment to inclusivity and a continued partnership with Enable Ireland, helping raise vital funds for children’s services in Cork. Whether it’s a baby’s first Christmas, a multi-generational family day out, or a magical festive visit with four-legged friends, Santa’s Frozen Village promises to be one of Cork’s most unforgettable holiday experiences. To book, visit https://tsevents.clr.events/event/137761:santas-magical-market-big-freeze-marina-market-2025

The holiday season just got a major upgrade in Dublin! For the first time ever, an Alpine Skate Trail has opened in Dún Laoghaire. This 400m skating winter wonderland is your chance to experience a little alpine magic right here in Ireland! What’s On? This isn’t your average skating rink—far from it. The Alpine Skate Trail is a winding pathway that lets you skate through a gorgeous, snowy setting inspired by the Alps. Picture fairy lights, alpine-style chalets and festive decorations, all in Dún Laoghaire! Here’s what to look forward to: • The Alpine Skate Trail : A unique 400m ice skating experience that loops and curves, offering a fresh twist on traditional skating. • Family-Friendly Fun : Ideal for all ages, with special skating aids available to help little ones join the fun. • Seasonal Treats and Warm Drinks : Pop by the nearby food stalls for mulled wine, hot chocolate, or a bite of something delicious to keep your energy up. When and Where? The Alpine Skate Trail is set up on Harbour Road in Dún Laoghaire. It’s open now and will run through the holiday season, making it an ideal activity to get you in the Christmas spirit. Check the full schedule and book your slot online here . How Much Does It Cost? Ticket prices are designed to be affordable, so everyone can join in the fun: • Adults : €21 • Children (under 18) : €18 • Family Tickets : Starting at €53 (for a family of 3) • Skating Aids : €5 (optional add-on) Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for peak times, to avoid disappointment. visit iceskating.ie to book. Ready to glide into Christmas? Book your tickets now and let the holiday fun begin!

The first of its kind in Ireland, the fully accessible  Treetop  Walk and Viewing Tower takes everyone to the very heart of the forest at  Avondale , and beyond, with a special Christmas offering now on – the Treetop Night Lights experience. What’s On The Treetop Walk at Avondale is a stunning attraction during the day, but as night falls, it transforms! With the Treetop Night Lights , the 1.4 km trail – which leads you up to 38 metres above ground – is covered in soft, artistic lighting that creates a magical, festive atmosphere. Treetop Night Lights has a variety of light installations, featuring over 3 kilometres of night lights, 12 forest animals, 16 large baubles, a Christmas tree, and other surprises along the way. Thanks to advanced LED technology and minimal light emissions, the experience uses less than 4KwH of energy. This ensures minimal impact on nature and wildlife, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in the forest. Ice Skating will also feature this year with Wicklow on Ice, starting November 16th! To book, visit beyondthetreesavondale.com. Additionally, a Christmas Market will run from the 30th of November all the way through to December 22nd, but only on select dates. Be sure to come hungry, as it will be hard to resist the many food stalls featuring mouth-watering food from all over the globe. The adults get to do some early Christmas shopping as they will have local artisans selling handcrafted ornaments, paintings, toys, homemade chutneys and jams, and so much more that you won’t be able to find at your typical store. The kiddies will be entertained by the colourful carnival rides and playing games for prizes at the Fun Fair. Create memories to last a lifetime and kick off the Christmas season with a day at Avondale! Additional Details & Pricing Treetop Night Lights will operate from Friday 15th November 2024 to Sunday 19th January 2025, with lights being turned on daily at 4pm. For weekends and holidays booking online in advance is strongly recommended, and annual passes are valid for Treetop Night Lights. Night Light ticket prices differ based on age and group size, starting at €20 per adult with family deals available. For more details, visit the official website here .