The all-new Enchanted Kingdom  at Slane Castle – running from November 14 th  until January 2025 – will be “the most exciting winter attraction ever staged at the iconic Slane Castle bringing a magical world hidden within our own”.   Talking trees are determined to trick you, bodies of water come alive, magical creatures of ice and fire walk alongside you and sculptures of ice glisten and glow in this multidimensional parallel world of art and magic. The all-new land will immerse guests in “a mystical world of fantasy, bioluminescent creatures with a dreamlike quality and breathtaking new experiences from exhilarating, wind-in-your-face effects to snow falling gently on your nose” . The Enchanted Kingdom is a walk of approximately one kilometre culminating in a spectacular show at the castle with immersive light and sound installations using 3D sound mapping, targeted projection technology, ingenious special effects, interactive lighting design and custom-built structures. It is family friendly, fully accessible for wheelchairs and buggies and people of all ages and abilities and is only 40 minutes from Dublin with free parking. The Enchanted Kingdom will also help raise funds for Special Hands , an activity group dedicated to improving the lives of children and young adults with additional needs. The event will also include a Christmas Craft and Food Market , which will be a feast for the senses with sights and smells of Christmas and a wide range of unique arts, crafts and special gifts.   Mulled wine, hot chocolate and delicious festive fare will keep the winter chills at bay and infuse the air with festive cheer.   The Enchanted Kingdom is by ticket only and tickets are now available from €21.50 on www.enchantedkingdom.ie. Christmas parties and group bookings are welcome and the Enchanted Kingdom is a fully accessible family friendly event.

The Cork International Film Festival (CIFF) is back November 7-17th! With over 100 screenings, interactive events, and a line-up that’s all about celebrating film, this festival is unmissable for movie lovers. Here’s your guide to all the action and excitement you can expect at CIFF! What’s On? This year’s CIFF goes big on diversity, showcasing films from up-and-coming Irish talent to established international filmmakers. Here are some highlights to look forward to: Galas & Red-Carpet Moments CIFF will kick off with a spectacular Opening Gala , featuring a highly anticipated premiere to get everyone talking. Throughout the festival, you’ll find more galas and parties, giving you a chance to celebrate some of the year’s most acclaimed films. Red-carpet vibes, Q&As, and opportunities to see your favorite filmmakers are on the menu. Feature Films and World Premieres Expect plenty of feature films across genres, including drama, comedy, thrillers, and documentaries. Films will be shown in themed categories, making sure there’s something for every taste. The Green Screen Programme As part of CIFF’s commitment to social impact, the Green Screen Programme returns with films that tackle pressing environmental issues. Documentaries and narrative films in this segment will explore themes like climate change, sustainability, and the power of nature. Short Films With dozens of short films in various categories, from Best Irish Short to International Shorts and Animated Shorts , CIFF is perfect for fans of bite-sized storytelling. Family-Friendly & Youth Programmes Got little ones? CIFF has you covered! The Family Programme is tailored to younger audiences, featuring animations and family-friendly films. Meanwhile, the Youth Programme offers educational screenings, encouraging teens and young adults to think about careers in film. Events & Masterclasses You can attend masterclasses , panel discussions , and networking sessions that are sure to give you an invaluable peek behind the scenes! Essential Festival Details CIFF will take place across some of Cork’s most iconic venues, including The Everyman Theatre , The Gate Cinema , and Triskel Christchurch , each adding its unique charm to the screenings and events. Ticket prices vary by event, with options for all budgets, including individual film tickets , day passes , and festival passes for the ultimate CIFF experience. Whether you’re planning to pop by for one film or immerse yourself in all ten days, CIFF has something special to offer. Check the full programme and get tickets at the official Cork International Film Festival website .

Sound of Belfast is on from the 7-17th of November, with an impressive lineup of 82  events spread across 43 venues in Belfast! Here’s everything you need to know. The annual celebration is dedicated to showcasing Belfast’s musical talents and its status as a UNESCO City of Music. Spanning gospel to garage rock, electronic to rap, the festival celebrates world class music community through collaboration, partnerships and specially curated events across the city. What’s On On Friday 8 November, Oh Yeah hosts Breaking Into Music, an immersive one day experience aimed at 14-21 year olds which aims to empower Northern Ireland’s youth by unlocking the career potential of the arts. This event compliments Oh Yeah’s weekly “Volume Control” industry mentoring programme and “Elevate” after-school club which provide opportunities for young music enthusiasts to collaborate, make new friends and get advice from industry professionals.  The work of the Volume Control team will be showcased that evening as they host the annual Clash of the New Breeds, a battle of the bands which is suitable for all ages to attend. Sound of Belfast promotes the great work of other festivals and arts organisations in the city and beyond and they have two “firsts” for the festival in 2024 – the UK-wide PRS Foundation Talent Development conference will be coming to Belfast plus Sound of Belfast will partner with Output Festival. Output is Ireland’s biggest one-day music conference and is held on Tuesday 12 November, featuring the annual Oh Yeah “Scratch My Progress” talent development programme’s showcase. The flagship event of Sound of Belfast, the NI Music Prize takes place on Wednesday 13 November at the Ulster Hall , with an Oh Yeah Legend Award presented by PRS For Music to Thin Lizzy’s founding member Eric Bell , followed by a special performance. In a festival first, on Friday 15 November we are partnering with the University of Atypical to deliver Sounds Atypical, an intimate gig at the Ledger Studio which will shine a spotlight on Belfast’s d/Deaf, disabled and neurodivergent musicians. On the same day, Sound of Belfast will host a night dedicated to rising queer artists called Out Loud in the Show Some Love Greenhouse – an inclusive creative hub on Victoria Street. The annual Women’s Work showcase returns on Saturday 16 November, with a refreshed and representative lineup curated by the Tutti Collective. As Victoria Square’s charity partner for the year, Oh Yeah’s Centre Stage series will culminate on the 16th and 17th November with special performances by the Philharmonic Choir and Cairde Choir respectively. On Saturday 16 November they will be platforming one local musician to perform at the Belfast City Hall Christmas Light Switch On in front of 10,000+ people. This is just a snapshot of what Sound of Belfast has to offer, with 10 days of special performances in unique venues across the city, such as Lilla Vargen in the historic Linenhall Library, a specially commissioned Grace and Glory gospel music eventatSt. Rosemary’s Church led by the creators of Soultrane , a Sacred Sounds event at Shankill Mission which combines yoga with a live ambient DJ set, and a Factory Sessions set by ROE at a top secret location yet to be revealed. The 2024 festival has an even bigger and more exciting programme for the special 10th anniversary, highlighting the diversity and brilliance of the local music scene – for more information and to book tickets, visit the official festival website at soundofbelfast.com.

Get ready for a Christmas adventure like no other as EPIC has transformed its traditional festive offering to create a truly immersive Christmas event. Gone are the days of the usual Santa visits; this year, children and parents alike will team up to solve clues, navigate museum exhibits, and work together to outwit the cunning imposters! Starting this December, Will the Real Santa Please Stand Up? transforms EPIC into a festive mystery hunt, where participants must work together to navigate the museum’s galleries, solve magic Christmas-themed clues, and steer clear of the ‘Bad Santas’ who will try to deceive them on their journey. Aileesh Carew, CEO of EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, says, “This year, we wanted to bring something truly memorable and unique to our visitors. Our Santa hunt is a festive, interactive activity designed to create special family memories, while making the most of the museum experience. It’s a Christmas treat for children and adults alike, and there’s nothing else like it in Dublin this December.” What’s Included: • A Santa Passport for each child to guide them on their adventure. • A series of magical Christmas-themed questions that only the true Santa can answer. • An exclusive “I Found the Real Santa” sticker at the end of the quest. • A polaroid selfie with the real Santa to commemorate the visit. The hunt is designed for children ages 4 and up and invites young detectives and their families to meet a variety of quirky Santas – Pirate Santa, Rock Star Santa, and more – before meeting the Real Santa for a photo at the end of the hunt. No gifts are included, but every child will leave with a treasured sticker and a cherished family memory. Book Your Tickets Now – Limited Availability Tickets for this event are expected to sell out quickly, so families are encouraged to book their spots early to avoid disappointment. This unique festive event runs throughout the Christmas season at EPIC, offering something special that can’t be found anywhere else in Dublin this year. Tickets and Booking Details: Tickets are on sale now and are expected to sell out quickly. Tickets are priced at €21 for adults and €10.50 for children (under 12). Please visit www.epicchq.com to reserve your spot. Tickets are non-refundable. For date/time changes, please contact EPIC at +353 (0)1 906 0861, subject to availability. This festive adventure will be available throughout the museum and promises a Christmas activity that’s entertaining, engaging, and completely original.

Art Source, Ireland’s largest art fair returns to Dublin’s RDS from November 15th to 17th, with over 15,000 attendees expected! Art Source returns for another year of exciting, accessible, and diverse artistry! From November 15 to 17 the event will showcase over 200 talented artists, makers, and galleries under one roof, promising something for everyone—whether you’re looking to add to your art collection, find a one-of-a-kind piece, or just discover new artists. More than 15,000 people are expected to attend, and will be able to view some of Warhol’s most iconic works, including his Marilyn series and Soup Can. Art Source isn’t your typical art fair. It’s designed to welcome all, from collectors to families looking for a day out. Beyond browsing hundreds of works, you’ll get a chance to meet the artists and maybe even learn a thing or two about how a masterpiece goes from an idea to something tangible. Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit To make the most of your experience at Art Source, here are a few tips: Plan Your Day : With so much to see, plan out which artists, talks, or workshops you’d like to attend. You can find a full list of artists on the official artsource.ie website. Take Your Time : Don’t rush! The fair is a place for discovery, so take your time to explore each booth and interact with the artists. Budget for Art : If you’re planning to buy, consider your budget beforehand. From affordable pieces on the €100 Art Wall to high-end artworks, there’s something for everyone. Tickets Admission starts at €10 for adults and €8 for OAP’s. Children under 16 are to be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, and go for free. Book your tickets online today at artsource.ie or from the box office at the Fair.

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 .