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Wonderlights is back and it’s bigger and brighter than ever! This year, Wonderlights will transform Marlay Park and Malahide Castle in Dublin as well as Fota House in Cork into a winter wonderland during select dates starting from November 7th. Since its inception in 2019 by Follow Fox Events, Wonderlights has transformed its host venues into dazzling landscapes with spectacular lighting displays and immersive projections! Each year brings new, innovative themes that tell a magical story through the use of beautiful lights, colours, nature, and specially composed music and sounds. Wonderlights has also recently won awards in the global Eventex Awards for ‘Best Outdoor Event’, ‘Best Entertainment Event’ and ‘Best Community Engagement Event’, making it the place to be for the ultimate cosy experience this winter! What’s On Dazzling Displays A team of talented creatives at Wonderlights have curated spectacular immersive shows that match the best in class – globally. Enjoy captivating projections and immersive displays as you wander the trail.  Multi-Sensory Accessible Trail An inclusive event, all trails are accessible for wheelchair users and suitable for buggy’s and prams. Wonderlight welcomes guests with extra sensory needs.  Enchantment For All Ages Wonderlights is a family event that is suitable for all ages. It has also became a popular date-night outing for couples. It is the perfect evening activity to enjoy with friends & family, and they can accommodate social and corporate groups too! Food & Drink in the Alpine Village Each location will feature their popular Alpine Village, which you can enjoy pre or post experience – grab a winter warmer, some delicious hot food or festive treat from street food vendors! Additional Information and Tickets The experience is suitable for all ages and all trails are fully accessible. Wonderlights is available in Marlay Park and Malahide Castle in Dublin, as well as Fota House in Cork. Tickets are from €15.00 to €25.50 with an interactive bracelet available to purchase on site for just €3 . For full details on planning your visit, tickets, and more, be sure to check out Wonderlights’ official website .

The theme for Dublin’s summer concert line-up is taking on a distinct retro flavour. Already Alanis Morrissette and Iron Maiden have been announced for Malahide Castle, with Oasis turning back the clock at Croker. Now, Robbie Williams continues his career comeback with an impressive looking European Tour schedule, which will include a stop at Croke Park on August 23. Oldies, newies and bits from his semi-autobiographical new movie Better Man have been promised. Support, at Croke Park, will come from Elbow . Tickets for the Dublin stop on the Robbie Williams Live 2025 tour will be priced between €77.25 and €152.25 and go on general sale this Friday, November 15, at 10am via Ticketmaster.ie.

Global superstar  Pitbull  has announced his Party After Dark Tour will be coming to Dublin on the 19th of February 2025, with tickets on sale from 10am Friday the 15th of November! Following numerous successful solo touring runs and a recent triple headlining one-of-a-kind multigenerational arena run on The Trilogy Tour — Mr. Worldwide is set to deliver another incredibly dynamic tour with an electrifying mix of his biggest hits and fan favourites. The 5-city tour kicks-off in  3Arena on 19 February 2025 , with special guest Lil Jon . Party After Dark Tour promises stunning visuals, explosive pyrotechnics, and Pitbull’s signature performance. With a fusion of music, lights, and special effects—alongside his band, The Agents, and dancers, The Most Bad Ones—the show will deliver an epic, high-energy party for everyone to enjoy. Every element is crafted to immerse the audience and deliver a show-stopping experience that’s truly one of a kind. The  GRAMMY Award-winner joined forces with Bon Jovi—GRAMMY Award-winning, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame band, and one of history’s most iconic acts— to release a brand new remix of their classic hit “It’s My Life,” titled “Now or Never,” set to debut on November 14. Tickets go on sale this Friday, the 15th of November at 10am through the Ticketmaster.ie website, with prices starting at €59.85.

Ireland’s largest Christmas parade will roll through Bunratty on Thursday November 28 th  as the County Clare village is transformed into a winter wonderland. Bunratty Castle and Folk Park , supported by the local business community and Clare County Council, has announced that 400 parade participants will wind their way through the village to the courtyard of Bunratty Castle where the annual switching on of the Folk Park’s Christmas lights will take place. The procession will feature more than 100 elves, Christmas characters, the Tulla Pipe Band, animals from the Folk Park, members of the All-Ireland winning Clare senior hurling team, and Santa Claus whose sleigh will be drawn by six horses. Additional musical entertainment will be provided on the evening by the Bunratty Brass Band and two local choirs. The parade marks the beginning of ‘Christmas at Bunratty 2024’ with 35,000 people expected through the gates of the popular 26-acre visitor attraction during the festivities. Santa Claus will be making a welcome return to his grotto on the Village Street on Friday, 29 th  November. Visitors will have full access to Bunratty Folk Park Trail of Lights Experience and can enjoy puppet and magic shows and traditional Christmas tales with Bunratty’s resident Seanchaí, drop into the festive themed shops, meet and greet in the Ice Queen’s Cottage, and take a ride on the Polar Express.  The ‘Breakfast with Santa’ event and Christmas-themed castle banquets also return for 2024. Councillor Alan O’Callaghan, Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council  commented: “It is wonderful to see local businesses and the community of Bunratty coming together to support what will be an incredible spectacle for the village. Bunratty never does anything in half measures and this Christmas parade will be no different as the village prepares for its busiest time of the year.” Charlotte Rebers, Head of Operations at Bunratty Castle & Folk Park  said: “We wanted to do something completely different this year by bringing the entire community together to celebrate the magic of the Christmas season. Months in the making, this parade will light up the village up with colourful characters, festive music and a joyful procession along the 700-metre route. Everyone is welcome to attend.” Following the parade, Bunratty Castle and Folk Park will present a donation to this year’s nominated charity, Down Syndrome Clare. Spokesperson Bríd Hayes  commented: “We are very excited about attending this festive event and we are grateful to Bunratty Castle and Folk Park for their fundraising efforts on our behalf. Such donations enable us to deliver vital services and supports for our members and their families to thrive and for the professionals who work to support them.” The Bunratty Christmas Parade commences from JP Clarke’s at 6.00pm on Thursday, November 28 th . The village main street will be closed to vehicular traffic for the duration of the parade, while public parking will be available throughout the village and at Bunratty Castle and Folk Park in advance. All businesses in Bunratty will remain open before, during and after the parade. Bunratty Castle and Folk Park will be closed to the public after the parade in line with standard winter operating hours. Visit  www.bunrattycastle.ie  for more.

The Jonathan Swift Festival, now in its fifth year, is set to take place from November 22nd to 27th in Saint Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin, and will have live music, theatre, family-friendly workshops and more on offer. The festival celebrates the life of Jonathan Swift, who was a writer, satirist and former Dean of the cathedral. Here’s everything that’s on! What’s On The festival opens on Friday week, Nov2 2nd, with  Jonathan Swift: Savage Indignation , a special production combining drama, music, and expert interviews at 8:00 PM.  Written by Gerry Mullins, this unique show tells the story of Swift’s life, focusing on his complicated relationships with Stella and Vanessa, two of the most significant women in his life. Alongside live performances, the event will feature interviews with leading Swift experts, including Cathy Scuffil, and Dr. Brendan Twomey, providing fascinating insights into Swift’s character and times.  The Choir of Saint Patrick’s Cathedral will provide musical accompaniment under the direction of David Munro, who also composed new songs for the production. Whether you are a longtime admirer of Swift or learning about him for the first time, this performance promises to be a highlight of the festival. Saturday week, Nov 23, offers a day of engaging activities for all ages. At noon, families can take part in a free of charge Gulliver’s Travelsbookmaking workshop, where children will craft their own adventure stories inspired by Swift’s famous novel. At 3:0pm Jonathan and the Jestwill take attendees on a literary tour of Saint Patrick’s Cathedral and Marsh’s Library, guided by actor Damien Devaney as Jonathan Swift and playwright Alice Coghlan. Participants will explore the books that inspired Swift’s satire, some of which bear his own handwritten graffiti. The festival continues on Tuesday, Nove 26, with the atmospheric  Swift Festival Cathedral Night Tour . Attendees will embark on a guided journey through Saint Patrick’s Cathedral by candlelight, discovering the history, legends, and whispers of the past in this iconic Dublin landmark. The festival will conclude on Wednesday, Nov 27 with  Swiftly into a Culwick Christmas , a festive concert by the Culwick Choral Society and the Saint Patrick’s Cathedral Girls’ Choir, featuring music from Swift’s era alongside seasonal favourites. Ed Coleman, Marketing Manager for Saint Patrick’s Cathedral and coordinator of the Jonathan Swift Festival, commented on the significance of this event: “The Jonathan Swift Festival is a key part of celebrating and preserving the legacy of one of Ireland’s most brilliant writers. Swift’s influence on literature and his sharp critique of society still resonate today. We are proud to continue this tradition of honouring his life and work through performances, tours, and activities that engage people of all ages.” The Jonathan Swift Festival 2024 offers an unforgettable experience for those looking to explore Dublin’s rich literary heritage and celebrate the enduring legacy of one of its greatest figures. For more information and to book tickets, visit  jonathanswiftfestival.ie .

Christmas artisan markets, choral and street trad music, children’s entertainment, street radio, a Christmas window display competition, an appearance by Liam McCarthy, and a Santa Train rolling through the town centre are amongst the highlights of this year’s Christmas in Ennis programme! Festivities get underway on Thursday 28 th  November when Santa Claus comes to town for the switching of the Christmas Lights with live music from the Circus Ponies and Vocal Ponies, and a special guest appearance by All-Ireland winning Clare hurling captain Tony Kelly and manager Brian Lohan with Liam MacCarthy in tow. What’s On Christmas Artisan Markets will bring the sights, sounds and smells of the festive season to the Templegate Plaza every Saturday from 30 th  November to 21 st  December from 10.30am to 3.00pm. Traders will be showcasing a variety of locally produced gifts and produce, which would make an ideal Christmas gift, or last-minute stocking filler. The complimentary ‘Santa train’ will operate through the town on December 13th-15th and 20th-22nd.  On Sunday 1 st  December from 2.00pm to 4.30pm, the sound of music will fill the air throughout Ennis town centre as Comhaltas presents Christmas Street Trad, while St. Michaels Villas’ Choir will perform choral music in the Templegate Plaza on Sunday 8 th  December from 2.00pm to 3.30pm. Glór will host two family-friendly Christmas events subsidised by Clare County Council with a ‘Frozen’ singalong taking place at 11.00am on 30th November and a fun-filled event called ‘A Little Christmas Time’ with face painting and crafts taking place on 14th December at 11.00am. A Juggler and Stilt walker will entertain Christmas shoppers on O’Connell St on 8th December, while ‘Living Statues’ will come to life on O’Connell Street on 15th December and 20th December. Clare County Council is collaborating with The Clare Champion on the ‘ Christmas window display competition ’ to create a festive atmosphere and enhance community spirit in the town. Children are reminded that they can post their letters to Santa Claus at  Santa’s Post Box at ‘ The Height’,  while the streets of Ennis will ring to the sound of Christmas music from 13th December when Christmas Street Radio returns until Christmas Eve featuring well-known local radio presenter Ger Sweeney broadcasting daily on street speakers throughout the town. Meanwhile, all public donations received at the Ennis Lions Club Remembrance Tree in The Market will this year go toward Milford Hospice and the Children’s Ark Paediatric unit at UHL. To boost retail activity in the town, there will be free parking for shoppers from 2.00pm at all public carparks (excluding on-street parking) from 28 th  November to 1 st  January inclusive. Free parking will be provided from 28 th  November from 5.00pm to 8pm each day at Áras Contae an Chláir, The Courthouse and Waterpark Campus Drumbiggle.  All day free parking will be provided at Áras Contae an Chláir on 30th November and 1st December, and 7-8th, 14-15th and 21st-22nd December and on the same days along with Christmas Eve at Waterpark Campus Drumbiggle. There will be no charge for parking in Council car parks throughout the town from 2.00pm between Thursday 28th November and Wednesday 1stJanuary 2025 inclusive. On-street parking will operate as normal.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year to embrace a short break with extra sparkle. So, if you’re craving adventure or a relaxing retreat, Discover Northern Ireland has a stocking full of ideas for all your festive fun! Belfast, recently named by Which? as having one of the UK’s best Christmas markets, becomes a magical place, with twinkling lights, outstanding restaurants and cosy pubs to escape into as the nights turn cooler. Get a head start with your present buying with a trip around Victoria Square shopping centre, before heading over to the famous Belfast Christmas Market at City Hall, which this year celebrates its 20 th  anniversary. Kick off the season of indulgence with a night of fine dining in one of the city’s many fabulous restaurants, or cocktails at Rattlebag to get the party started in the Cathedral Quarter. Alternatively, make for the walled city of Derry, and kick off your Christmas celebrations with a stroll along the Peace Bridge taking in the festive lights of the city or enjoy a panto at The Playhouse or Millenium Forum. From immersive activities and short break inspiration to amazing events and mouth-watering food and drink, Northern Ireland has everything you’d want and more this holiday season. Belfast Christmas Market , 16 November – 22 December The award-winning Belfast Christmas Market is back with a nostalgic Victorian twist. On the third weekend (November 30th to December 1st), step into a charming Dickensian world as you stroll through the market, surrounded by iconic characters from Charles Dickens’ novels. Enjoy enchanting storytelling, lively performances, and the festive atmosphere of a bygone era along with the usual festive grotto and vintage Helter Skelter. With over 100 international and local traders, the market offers a delightful selection of handcrafted goods, artisan products and festive treats. Mission Santa at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium,  County Armagh, 23 November – 23 December Join the E.L.F. crew on Mission Santa and blast off on a Christmas adventure but in space! Your out-of-this-world immersive experience will include admission to a show in the state-of-the-art dome theatre, a chance to help save Santa inside mission control during a live theatrical show, a visit to see Santa, a present for each child and a printed family photograph. A Magical Christmas Experience at Titanic Belfast , 27 November – 23 December Make memories at A Magical Christmas Experience with Titanic Belfast. Watch the excitement unfold as Father Christmas and his elves count down to their favourite night of the year on a guided tour of their Magical Christmas Experience. Meet your elf guide and take a journey as a group through the Enchanted Forest to make a wish by the Magical Wishing Tree, before stepping through the Old Curiosity Shop to enter the Elves’ Workshop. Enchanted Winter Garden at Antrim Castle Gardens , County Antrim, 29 November – 21 December As the winter sun sets over Lough Neagh, Antrim Castle Gardens come alive with lights and magic for the perfect Christmas experience suitable for everyone. Visit the fairies in Wonderland Wood, drop in and see Santa and meet the sprites in Pixieland who will help fill you with the Christmas spirit. There is a Big Wheel, rides and a Festive Fayre  with local food and drink. Christmas at W5 , Belfast, 30 November – 23 December Join Santa and his trusty elf-bot, Bud-E at the Elf Academy and help save Christmas through fun games and challenges. Then, step into the magical world of With Every Christmas Card, where holiday scenes spring to life in an immersive walk-through experience. For some friendly competition, try Penguin Curling or join an epic indoor Snowball Fight – without the freezing fingers. W5’s Climbit structure is aglow with holiday cheer, and at the Jingle All the Way Café, you can warm up with seasonal treats and festive drinks. Christmas at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens , County Down, 23 November – 23 December Explore the 100 acre gardens adorned with dazzling decorations inspired by the 12 Days of Christmas and stay on the lookout for the polar bear in the pond and a giant advent calendar. Families will love discovering hidden gems, from a secret grotto to a garden trail. Continue your journey inside the beautiful Royal Castle, where twinkling lights and Christmas trees fill the grand State Rooms with festive cheer. On select December days, children can meet Santa himself and take home a special bag of reindeer food. Christmas Wonderland at at Share Discovery Village , County Fermanagh, 6 – 23 December Share Discovery Village has launched both an enchanting Christmas Wonderland and Fermanagh’s only festive roller-skating rink. Highlights of the immersive Christmas experience include a visit to Santa’s magical grotto, a winter roller rink session, meeting Santa’s donkeys, a dedicated teen games room, a bouncy castle and creative colouring station for younger visitors, interactive games and unique photo opportunities in Santa’s igloo! Christmas at Ulster Folk Museum , County Down, 30 November – 1 December & weekends See the Folk Museum decorated for the festive season, from the grandeur of the Rectory to the simplicity of the Tea Lane houses. Meet craft demonstrators as they prepare for seasonal celebrations and take in the festive scents of cinnamon toast warming on the open fire. Settle in for a festive story and listen out for carol singers, plus festive sounds from a brass band and harpist. Post your letter to Santa at the Post Office, and make sure to say hello to the donkeys at the Marketplace. Winter Wonderland at Todd’s Leap Activity Centre , County Tyrone, 1 – 22 December Following an incident on their Zip Line in 2014, Santa, Mrs. Claus and his elves set up home at Todds Leap and this year they’re back for more festive fun. Hop aboard Santa’s off-road sleigh, visit his post office and workshop and play for prizes in an exciting family quiz. Christmas at Marble Arch Caves , County Fermanagh, 1 December – 5 January Join Marble Arch Caves this Christmas and embrace the festive spirit with a variety of exciting events and experiences for everyone. Elf Escape Heroes vs Villains (2-21 December) is an elf-tastic quest. The Sensory Space is designed for those with access and sensory needs; this calming space offers low-lit blue lighting and interactive sensory stations, perfect for relaxed enjoyment. Up to eight visitors can follow a self-guided mini-trail, engage with gentle Elf activities, and even hunt for hidden elves with a special activity sheet. Christmas at Ulster American Folk Park , Omagh, County Tyrone, 6 December – 3 January Step into Christmas past, full of nostalgia and traditions, as you wander the wintry streets of the Folk Park. Take in the Christmas décor, smells and festive flavours as you wander the cobbled streets of Ulster and America. On weekends, there’ll be Christmas crafts for kids, mince pies and warmed apple punch from Mrs Claus’ Bakery, plus festive tunes and Christmas storytelling sessions. Mummer characters will entertain you and there are also horse and carriage rides. Causeway Christmas , Bushmills, County Antrim, 7 and 14 December See the award-winning Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre beautifully transformed into a Christmas wonderland. Embark on a magical Christmas Trail to discover the secrets hidden around the Visitor Centre and get your face painted before enjoying some traditional family games or creating your very own decoration. The latest addition to the Causeway Christmas programme is the one and only ‘North Coast Circus’. The Northern Light at Slieve Donard Resort and Spa , County Down, 12 – 19 December Your journey begins outside the 4* hotel in the seaside town of Newcastle. From there, you can choose to stroll through the festive grounds or hop aboard the Christmas train. Once inside, you’ll travel through four themed rooms —venture into an ice cave, soar into the stars, and ultimately arrive at the source of the Northern Light itself. With immersive light and sound shows, interactive displays, the experience promises to captivate all ages. At the end of your journey, explore a traditional Christmas market where festive treats and crafts await. Temple of the Winds – Winter Solstice Sound Spa Retreat  , County Down, 21 December Join Tessa Ann from The Sound Healing Spa for this three-hour Winter Solstice retreat and workshop. Immerse yourself in the magical energy of Mount Stewart’s Temple of the Winds as Tessa Ann delivers a beautiful Sound Spa Experience at this iconic National Trust property on the Ards peninsula. Victorian Santa Experience at Whitehead Railway Museum , County Antrim, 1– 22 December Enjoy a short festive themed train ride in a heritage carriage adorned with Victorian style decorations and hauled by a steam engine at Whitehead Railway Museum. Enter the magical carriage shed where you will be greeted by Mrs Claus who will help you find Santa. Don’t forget to post your letter to Santa in the chimney of one of the engines! Unmissable music and theatre across Northern Ireland Enjoy extraordinary music, theatre and family entertainment this holiday season. To name just a few, Peter Pan at Grand Opera House, Belfast; Ulster Orchestra at Christmas – The Snowman™ at Belfast Waterfront Hall; A Christmas Carol at the Lyric, Belfast; Beauty and The Beast at Waterfront Hall, Belfast; Aladdin at Millennium Forum, Derry; Rapunzel, the Market Place Theatre, Armagh. Dates subject to change and subject to availability. Booking is essential for most events. Whether you’re looking for enchanting light displays, heartwarming holiday markets, or special performances that capture the spirit of Christmas, you’ll find it in Northern Ireland. Check out Discover Northern Ireland’s Christmas Supplement on their website  HERE. Book your next festive break or day out and start planning for next year at discovernorthernireland.com .

Ticketmaster Ireland has announced Charli XCX will play Malahide Castle June 17th 2025, with general onsale tickets available now! Here’s everything you need to know. The British singer will be supported by The Japanese House on both dates. It will be a return to Dublin for Charli XCX who opened for Taylor Swift at Croke Park in 2018. General ticket sales for Charli XCX’s Dublin and Belfast shows will begin Friday, November 22 at 12 pm Irish time at ticketmaster.ie. About Charli XCX Avant-pop and electronic superstar Charli XCX has become an iconic figure in the arts, having helped expand the landscape of popular music over the last decade by seamlessly traversing the underground and mainstream with her artistic output. Over the course of a trailblazing career, the multi-hyphenate creative has earned critical acclaim for her innovative style and entrepreneurial spirit and seen her forward-thinking approach reshape pop culture in the process. She released her sixth studio album ‘BRAT’ in June which stands as the most critically acclaimed album of the year and landed at Number 1 on the UK Official Album Chart in October. ‘BRAT’ has well and truly made its mark on the cultural zeitgeist this year; the audacious campaign has seen Charli cause roadblocks around the world with her pop-up ‘PARTYGIRL’ DJ sets, break the internet with viral videos and surprise collaborations with the likes of Billie Eilish, Lorde, Addison Rae, Robyn, Yung Lean, Julia Fox, Chloë Sevigny, and Rachel Sennott and introduce a new tone of green to the social lexicon. The album was nominated for the Mercury Prize 2024 while ‘Guess featuring Billie Eilish’ debuted at Number 1 on the UK Official Singles Chart, making Charli the first British artist to land at the top of the charts this year. In October, Charli followed it up with ‘Brat and it’s completely different but also still brat’ – a brand-new version of the critically acclaimed album featuring reimagined takes and innovative reworks of tracks from ‘BRAT’ featuring the likes of Julian Casablancas, Bon Iver, The 1975, Shygirl, Ariana Grande, Caroline Polachek and more.

Join the Guinness Storehouse from 25 November 2024 to 5 January 2025 for some delicious and visually stunning Christmas festivities! This winter, the Guinness Storehouse is set to transform into a dazzling festive spectacle, showcasing the extraordinary talent of Dublin’s creative community! Woven In Tradition Showcase Created within a 1km radius of the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin 8, ‘Woven In Tradition’ will feature over 1,000 unique decorations, designed by textile artist and designer, Áine Byrne, expertly woven by Botany Weaving Mill, and meticulously hand-crafted by a collective of skilled Irish designers and tailors from Dublin. Running until 5th January, visitors will experience the magic that unfolds when the joys of creativity and community meet craftsmanship and entertainment this Christmas, as music fills the seven floors with surprise and delight moments from community choirs, trad trios and fiddle players bringing the festive feeling alive. From stunning tree decorations and intricate garlands to stunning tapestries and bespoke window displays, all seven floors of the World’s Leading Beer Tour Visitor Experience will be adorned with touches of handcrafted magic from Dublin. This unique collaboration between the Guinness Storehouse, Áine Byrne and Botany Weaving Mill celebrates the artistry and craftsmanship of Dublin’s creative heart, offering visitors a truly memorable winter experience. Snug Nollaig Pub Installation Visitors can also expect to see a new cozy pub installation ‘Snug Nollaig’ on Level 4 brought to life with an interactive story teller reminiscing on times past through spoken word and song sharing moments of how Guinness has shaped the stories and characters of the Dublin Liberties & surrounding areas. This activation will come alive each afternoon, Tuesdays to Saturdays from 26th November to 21st December inclusive. Gravity Bar Toast the holidays in the Gravity Bar over a pint of Guinness with the best views of Dublin’s winter skyline, sample Christmas-themed STOUTies and warming cups of mulled Guinness and festive fayre across all seven floors. Guests can also upgrade to the STOUTie or Academy experiences, both available as optional extras when booking on the Guinness Storehouse website for the ultimate day out in Dublin over the festive break. Additional Information Christmas at the Guinness Storehouse is included in each experience ticket. Make sure to book early to avoid disappointment at  www.guinness-storehouse.com .  The experience runs from Monday November 25th – Sunday January 5th, and opens at 10am. Price start from €33 per adult. Their Christmas spectacle will feature eye-catching installations, festive treats, drinks, and more.

Get ready to fully dive into the Georgian history of Armagh through the buildings, characters and customs of the latter half of the 18th Century, with events taking place from 28th November – 1st December 2024. Armagh Georgian Festival promises to be a weekend which brings the city’s Georgian history and stories to life, where you can uncover some of our city’s hidden gems and take part in a range of activities and experiences which are not only enjoyable, but interpret and explain the city’s Georgian roots. What’s On Georgian Day on Saturday 30th November is the highlight of the festival – a day rich in atmosphere where you can hear the clip clop of the horses’ hooves along the Mall, listen to musicians around the streets and smell the roasting chestnuts and mulled spices as you wander among the craft and food stalls throughout the city centre and on the picturesque setting of The Mall. Make sure to look out for the Georgian characters – the Gentry, the urchins and the gin soaked ladies as they promenade through the city streets and the Mall. The tree lined Mall will have plenty of activities including Horse and Carriage Rides, Stalls, Children’s entertainment, with the ever popular Carousel, Music and Hot Chestnuts making a comeback. Take in the Georgian architecture as the Gentry arrive into the city transported by horse and carriages on the Mall. The day will conclude with the spectacle of the Georgian light shows which transform the Market House, a beautiful Georgian building, into a shimmering canvas for images, special effects and other surprises! The Hill of Armagh will play its role in welcoming visitors for Georgian Day as the Robinson Library and No 5 Vicars’ Hill, the former Registry, are open to the public welcoming visitors to step back in time. See inside the Library, which was built in 1771 as a public library and is the oldest library in Northern Ireland, and the 1772 Registry, which holds precious documents and records and where you can learn about Wax Sealing. Or you can book at tour of the Armagh Observatory, a stunning Georgian building with a continuous history of astronomical research from its beginnings in 1790 to the present day. All these buildings were part of Archbishop Robinson’s legacy to Armagh. Additional Information Please note events take place from Thursday – Sunday. Many events require a ticket which must be booked in advance online. Please see website for full details, including tickets and pricing. Whilst for many activities a fee is payable, there are many activities which are free of charge. Please see suggested itineraries on the  Visit Armagh  website website for more inspiration to create your perfect Georgian Day.

It’s time for our weekend roundup! Here’s what’s on this weekend, between Friday the 29th and Sunday the 1st of December across Ireland. We’ve got a great lineup of things to do, from Guinness Winterfest to the Armagh Georgian Festival and much, much more. Guinness Winterfest – 25.11-5.01 Join the Guinness Storehouse from 25 November 2024 to 5 January 2025 for some delicious Christmas festivities! Their Christmas spectacle will feature eye-catching installations, festive treats, drinks, and more. Read more about the event here. Armagh Georgian Festival – 28.11-1.12 Get ready to fully dive into the Georgian history of Armagh through the buildings, characters and customs of the latter half of the 18th Century, with events taking place from 28th November – 1st December. Read more about the event here. Christmas at Smithfield Square – 22.11-01.01 Dublin’s newest and most exciting festive experience, Christmas Spectacular at Smithfield, is the perfect spot to make lasting memories and create new Christmas traditions with family, friends and loved ones, starting November 22nd. Read more about the event here. Treetop Night Lights Christmas Experience with Ice Skating! – 1.11-2.01 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. Read more here. Embrace Christmas in Northern Ireland with a GIANT Offering of Events! – 16.11-01.01 It’s the most wonderful time of the year to embrace a short break with extra sparkle. So, if you’re craving adventure or a relaxing retreat, Discover Northern Ireland has a stocking full of ideas for all your festive fun, running from November 16th to January! Read more here. Alpine Skate Trail – 1.11-02.01 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! Read more about the event here. Cookie Making Workshops – 1.11-30.11 Sunday scaries stand no chance against you when you get to attend your own cookie making workshops with Drunken Cookie! Sessions take place every Sunday in November, and booking is required. Read more here. Wonderlights – 07.11-02.01 Wonderlights is back and it’s bigger and brighter than ever! This year, Wonderlights will transform Marlay Park and Malahide Castle in Dublin as well as Fota House in Cork into a winter wonderland during select dates starting from November 7th. Read more about the event here.

This holiday season, why not leave the stress behind and treat yourself to a Christmas getaway, where someone else does the peeling, stuffing and cleaning? Newpark Hotel Kilkenny, one of the few hotels open over the holidays, is the perfect escape for solo travellers, couples, and families alike with warm hospitality and magical festive experiences! Guests can enjoy 2-, 3-, or 4-night festive getaways, with sumptuous seasonal dining, entertainment all sprinkled with plenty of Christmas magic.  Wondering what a 3 night package might look like? On Christmas Eve, gather for Afternoon Tea by the fire with live carols, followed by a festive dinner and an evening of movies or drinks in Scott’s Bar.  Christmas Day includes a champagne breakfast more, live carol singing, and a decadent five-course festive lunch. Santa will also make a special appearance, bringing gifts for the little ones.  The evening wraps with an informal buffet and a cosy movie. Relax on St. Stephen’s Day  with a leisurely breakfast and live music.   For those seeking extra tranquillity amid the holiday festivities, the award-winning Escape Spa offers an abundance of indulgent treatments that will leave you feeling rejuvenated and ready to celebrate.. Jurassic Newpark Renowned as one of Ireland’s Best Family Hotels, Newpark has loads of activities to make Christmas magical for the little ones. The kids’ club is open for the holidays, providing a range of fun-filled activities, but the real highlight is Jurassic Newpark, a thrilling outdoor attraction located on the hotel’s 25-acre grounds. Free for hotel guests (and bookable online for non-residents), Jurassic Newpark features life-size animatronic dinosaurs that move and roar, along with a wildlife farm, adventure playground, fairy and eco trails, go-kart track, and a covered inflatable park, Jurassic Bounce. From November 23rd – December 23rd , Jurassic Newpark transforms into a sparkling Winter Wonderland. Families can embark on an enchanted journey through the twinkling winter landscape, meet cheeky elves, and spot reindeer along the way. Santa’s grotto is open for last-minute visits, complete with hot chocolate and cheerful chats.  In the Dino Den, Santasaurus, Santa’s very own dancing dinosaur, steals the show with live entertainment. Children can enjoy Christmas storytelling, games, and even help Santa’s elves with toy-making in the workshop, taking home a special gift. The festive fun continues with a live nativity scene featuring real animals, a scavenger hunt, face painting, the Elf & Fairy Trail, and carnival games. Spa & More! The hotel’s pools are a hit for everyone, with family friendly swim areas and  a child-free outdoor infinity pool offering a peaceful retreat for adults, while the  sauna and steam room, fitness gym and Escape Spa are all on hand to look after your festive wellness needs. There’s also an adult-only floor for those seeking a bit more tranquillity during their stay. While you’re here, take time to explore Kilkenny’s medieval streets, which come alive with festive lights and decorations. Yulefest Kilkenny, historic landmarks aglow with twinkling lights, and cosy Christmas markets make Kilkenny a true winter wonderland this time of year. Additional Information With limited availability, early booking is recommended to secure your stay at Newpark Hotel. Festive Packages  start from €799 pps for a 2 night Festive stay, €899 pps for a 3 night Festive stay, and €999 pps for a 4 night Festive stay in a classic room. For more information or to book your magical Christmas getaway, visit newparkhotelkilkenny.com .