Dates: February 2024

There are various family friendly events taking place at Johnstown Castle Estate this February 2024 including:

• February 1st – St Brigid’s Day 10.30am to 1.30pm enjoy a stroll and storytelling with Lorraine O’Dwyer of Gallivanting Tours
• February 17th – A Mooring with a Difference takes place from 11am to 12.30pm. Join Eddie Taylor as he reveals the hidden history behind Johnstown’s First World airship base.
• February 24th – From 9am to 4pm join Sheila Forsey on a nature inspired creative writing workshop.

Booking Details: For further information and booking details, click here.

Many of Ireland’s top attractions, and plenty of local ones, offer the option to buy an annual family pass or membership that would make the perfect gift. For most, as long you visit a handful of times in the year, it is better value than paying each time you visit.

So this year, rather than buying single gifts for family or friends, you could consider gifting an annual family pass to somewhere they love. They will get a full 12 months of enjoyment from your gift and get to visit some amazing places.

So whether they prefer action, adventure, nature or history, there are lots of options available. Take a look at some of our favourite annual family pass options below.

When you become a member of the Irish Heritage Trust you will enjoy:

• Unlimited entry to Irish Heritage Trust properties at Fota House Arboretum & Gardens (Cork), The National Famine Museum | Strokestown Park (Roscommon) and Johnstown Castle Estate, Museum & Gardens (Wexford).
• Garden, museum, and tour access across the properties.
• Discounted and free events across Irish Heritage Trust houses, gardens, and museums.

Cost: €150 for 2 Adults plus dependent children living at the same address

Compared to a normal family ticket? A day visit to Johnstown Castle Gardens for 2 Adults & 4 children costs €38.

Where to buy: Buy online on www.irishheritagetrust.ie

Season Ticket holders enjoy access to the Irish National Stud and Gardens all year round.

They also hold exclusive member-only events where you can meet the first of the foals before anyone else, enjoy exclusive member-only children’s events throughout the year and get news and updates on your favourite foals.

Cost: €150 for two adults and up to four children

Compared to a normal family ticket? A family ticket for 2 adults + 2 children (aged 5-16) costs €42.00

Where to buy: You can buy the family season pass on their website.

Get our best content direct to your inbox! You’ll receive quick and easy recipes, fun ideas to entertain the kids, parenting tips, great competitions, as well as offers from brands we trust.

Annual passes for the Treetop Walk & Viewing Tower at Beyond the Trees Avondale include unlimited visits throughout the year. The famous Slide is subject to both weather and capacity, and doesn’t operate during wet weather. It costs €2 per go on the Viewing Tower slide, payable at the slide on the day. U6’s slide for free, however they must be accompanied on the slide by a paying adult.

Cost: €105 for 2 Adults + up to 3 kids (aged 4-17) of €75 for 1 adult + up to 3 kids

Compared to a normal family ticket? A family ticket for 2 adults & up to 3 kids (under 18) costs €40 or €25 for 1 adult + up to 3 kids.

Where to buy: On their website www.beyondthetreesavondale.com or at the ticket office.

An annual pass to Birr Castle Demesne gives you:

• Unlimited access to the Gardens, Science Galleries and Treehouse Playground Area, within the public opening hours.
• 10 kilometres of walking trails to enjoy.
• Free membership for children age 3 years and under with any family membership.
• Regular email newsletter keeping you up to-date with news and events.
• 10% discount in the Gift Shop.
• Dogs allowed. (Subject to T&C outlined under “For our dog owners”).
• 4 Complimentary guest passes with each individual 12-month membership taken out.

Cost: €82.00 for a 12-Month Adult Membership (18-64 years), €69.50 for a 12-Month Additional Adult Membership (18-64 years) and €22 for a 12-Month Child Membership (4-17 years)

Compared to a normal family ticket? A family ticket for 2 adults + 2 children costs €30.

Where to buy: On their website www.birrcastle.com or at the ticket office.

At the moment Lough Key doesn’t offer an annual membership or season ticket but we wanted to include their car parking pass which can be purchased from the Visitor Centre for only €35, and is valid for one year from day of purchase. There are no limitations on this pass, it can be used as often as you like, so works out at fantastic value if you plan to visit regularly for picnics and activities.

You also get free parking at Lough Key when you spend €20 or more on admissions to their attractions or in the restaurant, and they do also offer combination day passes for activities to save you money.

Brigit’s Garden have an annual family pass which gives:

• Unlimited entry to Brigit’s Garden for 12 months when normal charges apply (Special Events excluded)
• 5% discount in the Garden Café and Gift Shop
• 10% discount on tickets for special events
• 20% discount for guests you bring to the gardens
• 10% discount on Summer Camps for children covered by family membership
• Monthly newsletters and updates by email

Cost: A 12 month membership for 2 adults and 2 kids costs €110, while a membership for 1 adult and 2 kids costs €70.

Compared to a normal family ticket? A ticket for a family of 5 (2 Adults, 3 Children) costs €26 from October to March and €33 from April to September.

Where to buy: To get your annual membership go online to their website www.brigitsgarden.ie

Seasonal Membership at Clara Lara Funpark covers admission and activities (height restrictions apply). An adult must be the main holder of the ticket.

Cost: Membership costs €75 per person (adult or child), so for 2 adults and 2 children €300

Compared to a normal family ticket? A day pass for an adult costs €25 while for a child it costs €30, so 2 adults and 2 children would cost €110.

Where to buy: you can buy online on their website www.claralara.ie.

Seasonal Membership at Westport House gives you:

• Unlimited use of the amusements and rides in the Pirate Adventure Park during normal opening hours.
• 25% off additional tickets for friends and family to Westport House & Pirate Adventure Park
• 10% off birthday parties in the Pirates Den indoor soft play
• Discounts on Special Events like Halloween or Winter Wonderland

Additional charges apply for adventure activities, special events such as the Halloween Fest and Winter Wonderland, carnival games, some additional attractions and rides. Membership cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers or for special events in Westport House. e.g. Santa, Events, Halloween, School Tours etc.

Cost: They have various family memberships, for a family of 4 membership is currently €240

Compared to a normal family ticket? 1 Day Pirate Pass for 2 Adults & up to 2 Children costs €70.

Where to buy: you can buy online on their website www.westporthouse.ie or at Westport House itself.

The Heritage Card provides for free admission to 45 state-managed OPW Heritage Sites located throughout the country (with the exception of Muckross Traditional Farms, Killarney) for one year from the date of first use.

NB: at certain locations, parking facilities and ancillary services are provided by other bodies or agencies, in which case there may be a charge for the use of such services, those are not covered by the Heritage Card.

Cost: A family card is €90 (Max. 2 adults & 5 eligible children aged from 12 to 18 years). Kids under 12 go free.

Compared to a normal family ticket? Prices for family tickets vary depending on site but cost on average €20-25 euros for 2 adults and 2 children (12-17yrs).

Where to buy: You can purchase an OPW Heritage Card at one of their OPW sites, some have credit card facilities. Alternatively, buy online at www.heritageireland.ie

Wells House offers an annual pass that is valid for one year, 7 days a week, offers one car entry, entry to the grounds including the Lady Frances Fairy & Gruffalo Walk, gardens, adventure playground, onsite cafe, animal farm, and non-ticketed events for the year.

Cost: Annual Family Membership for 2 adults and up to 3 children costs €99.00 + €1.50 booking fee

Compared to a normal family ticket? Family ticket for 2 Adults, up to 3 Children costs €24.00

Where to buy: buy your annual pass on their website www.wellshouse.ie or at reception

Emerald Park (formally Tayto Park) annual membership offers:

• Unlimited access to all regular attractions
• Discounts on food and beverages
• Discounted rates on special events

Cost: Annual Membership is based on a per person rate so for 4 people eg. 2 adults and 2 children costs €420.00

Compared to a normal family ticket? Family ticket with all access for 4 people costs €140 online in advance or €188 at the gate

Where to buy: buy your annual pass on their website www.emeraldpark.ie

Turoe Pet Farm offers a variety of membership options available to suit all family sizes. Members will get access to:

• The Pet Farm
• Jungle Town
• Inflatable City
• Outdoor play area
• Astro turf pitch
• Fairy nature walk

Cost: Annual Family Membership for 2 adults and up to 2 children costs €200

Compared to a normal family ticket? Family ticket for 2 Adults, up to 2 Children costs €45.00

Where to buy: buy your annual pass on their website www.turoepetfarm.ie

Airfield Annual Pass Holders enjoy:

• Unlimited visits
• Free entry to Airfield’s seasonal trails
• Discounts on selected classes & workshops
• 10% off food in Overends Kitchen

Cost: e.g. 4 Person Pass is €170

Compared to a normal family ticket? Day ticket for 2 adults + 2 children costs €34.

Where to buy: An Annual Pass can be purchased over the phone or at the Airfield Estate ticket desk.

A 12 month family membership offers plenty, including:

• Day visit admission to Bunratty Castle and Folk Park
• 10% Discount on admission to other Shannon Heritage Attractions
• 10% Discount in the Bunratty Retail Store
• 10% Discount in all food outlets including Mr O’Regan’s Café
• Free Parking
• Priority booking options for all events – additional fees apply for Easter Halloween and Christmas.
• 10% discount on Shannon Heritage Evening Entertainment Shows

Cost: €150 for 1 adult and up to 4 children or 2 adults + 2 children (children u16)

Compared to a normal family ticket? A family pass for 2 adults and 2 children costs €36

Where to buy? Buy it online on the website www.bunrattycastle.ie

A 12 month Killruddery House Membership gives you:

• Unlimited admission to the Gardens (during open season) including picnic & play areas, designated farm roads, team room
• Discounted rate for house tours
• Free admission or subsidised tickets to many events.
• Special discounts to partner activities at Killruddery including workshops, outdoor sports events, tree adventure park and Squirrel’s Scramble.

Cost: There are three tiers of membership.

• Gold Finch Killruddery Membership €100 – Five guests allowed along with the member
• Silver Fir Killruddery Membership €80 – Three guests allowed along with the member
• Copper Beech Killruddery Membership €60 – One guest allowed along with the member
  This is the total number of either adults or children who can visit Killruddery without further entrance fee, the member must be one of the guests present.

Compared to a normal family ticket? A Garden + House Tour entry ticket for 2 Adults + 2 Children costs €43.

Where to buy: You can purchase a membership on their website www.killruddery.com or at the Garden Entrance.

A Dublin Zoo Annual Family Pass offers lots of value, including:

• Free admission to the Zoo for 12 months (plus at least one adult / two children)
• You will also get free admission to Fota Wildlife Park in Cork for 12 months
• Free admission to four UK zoos during the 12 months – Edinburgh Zoo, Colchester Zoo, Twycross Zoo and Paignton Zoo
• A free subscription to quarterly magazine Zoo Matters
• Discounts on selected events, summer camps and educational programmes

Cost: €210 for Pass holder + 2 Adults + 2 Children or Pass holder + 1 Adult + 4 Children or Pass holder + 6 Children

Compared to a normal family ticket? A day ticket for 2 Adults + 2 Children costs €54 to €61.

Where to buy: Buy online on www.dublinzoo.ie or at the ticket office at the Zoo.

Members of Fota Wildlife Park get unlimited visits to the Park, as well as:

• Fota Wildlife Park Newsletters
• 10% off all Children’s Activity Camps
• Free admission to Dublin Zoo
• One visit per year to Edinburgh Zoo, Highlands Wildlife Park & Belfast Zoo (card & receipt must be produced)
• Admission concession to Paignton Zoo, Newquay Zoo, and Living Coasts (card & receipt must be produced)

Cost: €210 per year for their Conservation Pass which allows entry for Member + 2 adults + 2 kids (3-16yrs, under 3s are free) OR Member + 1 adult + 4 kids OR Member + 6 kids. They also have a Park Pass valid for Member + 2 children for €150.

Compared to a normal family ticket? A family ticket for 2 adults + 2 children costs €54.60 online or €58.00 at the gate.

Where to buy: On their website www.fotawildlife.ie or at the ticket office.

Powerscourt Estate members enjoy unlimited entry to Powerscourt Gardens, Waterfall and River Walk with playground during normal opening hours, as well as 10% discount in Powerscourt Garden Pavilion when you present your annual membership card.

Cost: Family membership pass for the year at Powerscourt costs €175 for 2 adults and up to 4 children

Compared to a normal family ticket? A family ticket for 2 adults + 3 kids to visit both the Gardens and Waterfall would cost €38.

Where to buy: You can buy it online on their website at www.powerscourt.com.

You can buy a season family pass* for Nore Valley Pet Farm allowing unlimited entry to the farm all season long (March – October). This is excellent value for money as a season pass only costs the equivalent of three normal entries to the farm.

*Season passes are for farm entry only, extra activities on site like tractor and trailer rides, go-karts, 3D maze, and crazy golf are not included. For seasonal events, check with the Farm if any extra fees apply.

Sample cost: 2 adults + 2 kids costs €111.00

Compared to a normal family ticket? A family ticket for 2 adults + 2 kids to visit for the day will cost €37.00

Where to buy: on their website www.norevalleypark.com

Odeon, Omniplex and IMC cinemas all offer membership which is usually taken on a monthly basis. Other local cinemas have their own membership deals.

• Odeon offer myLimitless monthly memebership (minimum 3 months) for €14.99 per month and entitles the member to one ticket to every movie, discounts off food & drink, exclusive invites to screenings before films go on general release. 18+ only
• Omniplex offer a  myOmnipass monthly membership (minimum 3 months) for €14.99 per month and entitles the member to one ticket to every movie including MAXX, Recline & D’LUXX options, exclusive members only screenings and more.
• IMC offers IMC Infinity for €17.99 monthly and entitles the holder to one ticket to every movie, exclusive members only screenings and one ticket daily.

Compared to a normal ticket? An adult ticket for 1 movie costs a similar price to the monthly membership fee so if you see 2 movies or more a month, you are saving money.

Where to buy: online for each cinema

Dates: December 8th to 23rd 2023 (various dates)

There are several Christmas Concerts taking place in St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin this December including:

• Christmas at the Movies (Dec 8th)
• Viennese Christmas Special (Dec 9th)
• Vivaldi’s 4 Seasons (Dec 10th)
• A Culwick Choral Christmas (Dec 13th)
• Handel by Candle (Dec 15th)
• Jersey Boys by Candlelight – At Christmas (Dec 16th)
• Christmas by Candlelight (Dec 20th & 21st)
• The Snowman (Dec 23rd)

For more information, click here.

Dates: December 22nd & 23rd 2023

Focus Ireland are asking musicians, choirs, musical groups and solo singers to come out to welcome those arriving and departing from Iarnród Éireann stations on December 22nd and 23rd, with a variety of your favourite songs, as they make the Journey Home for Christmas.

Confirmed stations to date include:

• Hueston Station (Dublin)
• Kilkenny Station
• Kent Station (Cork)
• Colbert Station (Limerick)
• Athlone Station (Westmeath)

All proceeds raised will go to Focus Ireland.

For more information, click here.

Dates: December 15th & 17th

The Dublin Gospel Choir returns with a brilliant selection of festive favourites and gospel greats to give you all the Christmas feels!

DGC have long been a household name in Ireland – versatile, vibrant and uplifting with powerful voices and rich harmonies. They have performed with artists as diverse as John Legend, Take That, Duran Duran, Damien Rice, Outkast and Ennio Morricone and their annual slot at Electric Picnic is nothing less than legendary.

Shows include:

• December 15th – The Moat Theatre Nass, Co Kildare
• December 17th – Draoicht, Blanchardstown

On December 18th they host a Christmas Night of Soul in aid of Capuchin Day Center. This will be held at 8pm at Capuchin Day Centre, St Mary of the Angels Church, Dublin 7. It is a free event and all donations are welcome.

For further details and to book tickets, click here.

Get our best content direct to your inbox! You’ll receive quick and easy recipes, fun ideas to entertain the kids, parenting tips, great competitions, as well as offers from brands we trust.

Date: December 8th 2023

Internationally-acclaimed and award-winning chamber choir New Dublin Voices and Bernie Sherlock return to the John Field Room at the National Concert Hall with the perfect blend of Christmas music, old and new, for a concert brimming with the spirit of the season.

For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Date: December 9th 2023

The A Capella Knights presents The Knights Before Christmas, a festive evening of music and dance at Galway Cathedral supporting Hand in Hand Children’s Cancer Charity on December 9th.

For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Date: December 17th 2023

Come along for some festive cheer and join in the fun with the Big Christmas singing group celebrating the end of a series of workshops for the annual Big Christmas Sing Concert with a range of old, new and wacky seasonal favourites all led by Elizabeth Drwal.

For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Date: December 10th to 17th 2023

Enjoy the magic of Christmas Classics by Candlelight led by Frank McNamara with special guests.

• St John’s Church of Ireland, Tralee, Co Kerry (Dec 10th)
• St Augustine’s Catholic Church, Limerick (Dec 12th)
• Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity Within, Waterford (Dec 17th)

For more information, click here.

Date: December 10th 2023

As traditional as Christmas turkey, kick start the festive period with the best variety show of the season. Don’t miss the big sound of the Dublin County Choir and the cream of Irish family entertainment in the company of your favourite soprano and presenter Niamh Murray at National Concert Hall.

For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Date: December 10th 2023

The Kilkenny Choir presents a selection of modern and traditional Christmas carols at St Canice’s Catholic Church, Kilkenny.

For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Date: December 10th 2023

Hear some of Donegal’s finest young musicians and singers along with special guests, perform Christmas carols. Special guests include; Donegal Youth Orchestra, conducted by Vincent Kennedy, The Grand Ukulele Band, the Ukrainian Guitar Ensemble, Harpists Inc. and more.

For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Date: December 13th 2023

The Chester Beatty is pleased to welcome back Cantóirí, a Dublin choir with an international membership. Cantóirí’s repertoire spans the centuries and the globe, and includes songs from Europe, Latin America and the Far East. This festive performance will feature a selection of Christmas songs, old and new, including some of our most beloved carols.

Free, no booking required. For more information, click here.

Date: December 20th 2023

For over 25 years audiences have made The Great Christmas Concert at the National Concert Hall the start of their Christmas Season! Not only will you experience the joyful and uplifting sounds of the voices of children in Piccolo Lasso combined with their adult colleagues in The Lassus Scholars, all blended together with the Orlando Chamber orchestra, but you will also have the opportunity of uniting your voice with theirs as conductor Dr Ite O’Donovan invites you to join in the audience carols!

The programme of festive music includes Christmas favourites from O Holy Night to Jingle Bells; choruses and arias by Haydn, Schubert, Rossini, Reger, Byrd and Handel’s Hallelujah Chorus.

For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Date: November 25th and 26th 2023

Cork International Choral Festival is thrilled to be back 2 evenings of festive carols, song and poetry in the stunning surrounds of St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral.

The choir will be under the direction of Cathrine Mahon Buckley and will be joined by special guests on both evenings.

For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Dates: December 3rd 2023

The Inspire Choral Group are returning to The Headfort Arms Hotel in Kells, Co Meath for their ‘Christmas by Candlelight’ concert.

They promise a magical night of music with a mix of classic and modern Christmas songs to get the whole family in the Christmas spirit.

For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Date: December 19th 2023

The most elegant way to celebrate Christmas with a sublime concert of carols and seasonal classics, staged in an evocative candle-lit style setting at the National Concert Hall.

Featuring the Dublin Concert Orchestra conducted by Michael Bawtree and soloist Harriet Eyley.

For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Dates: November 11th 2023 to January 21st 2024 from 4pm to 7pm daily

Experience the forest after dark in a completely novel way with the dazzling Treetop Night Lights spectacle. Travel the beautifully lit treetop walkway, tunnel and viewing tower and meet an array of lit up forest creatures that make Avondale Forest Park their home.

This is an experience that all ages and all abilities will enjoy together getting up close and personal with nature after dark. Less than one hour’s drive from Dublin city in the heart of the Wicklow countryside, Treetop Night Lights provides a family-friendly, age-friendly and truly accessible spectacle.

Running from Saturday 11th November 2023 to Sunday 21st January 2024 this is more than a Christmas experience, it’s a celebration of winter and an exploration of a night time forest fantasy. The perfect ‘together adventure’ for all ages and abilities this winter season.

How to Book: For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Dates: November 16th to January 7th 2024

Wild Lights, the spectacular, night-time experience at Dublin Zoo, is back with an exciting brand new theme – The Enchanted Zoo!

Over a thousand breathtaking, dazzling lanterns will create an enchanting wonderland so you can discover the zoo at night.

On arrival you will be met by a wizard and you will have to choose which path to take, there are 3, each of which will lead you on a different journey.

For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Dates: November 10th to January 2nd 2024

Wonderlights is an enchanting evening spectacle for all the family, taking you on an awe-inspiring walking trail through the illuminated gardens of Malahide Castle. Guests can expect a magical mix of lights, colour, nature and sounds with this year’s theme ‘The Magic of Winter’.

For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Get our best content direct to your inbox! You’ll receive quick and easy recipes, fun ideas to entertain the kids, parenting tips, great competitions, as well as offers from brands we trust.

Dates: November to December 23rd 2023

Land Of Light is an outdoor event that combines the use of nature and technology to provide a spectacle of lights, music and performance for attendees of all ages. Set in the beautiful grounds of Belvedere House, Gardens & Park in County Westmeath, the experience delivers thrills and excitement at every turn.

As you walk your way along the forest trail, the night sky, trees and buildings are lit up by a spectacular light show, with stunning atmospheric music to complete the scene. It’s like walking through another world!

For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Dates: November 25th to December 19th 2023

Watch Antrim Castle Gardens come to life as the sun sets over Lough Neagh. Enjoy twinkling lights, rides and attractions at this magical Christmas experience suitable for all the family. There will be inclusive evenings on December 6th and 13th.

How to Book: For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Dates: December 1st to 23rd 2023

With a little sprinkling of magical fairy dust over this quaint little corner of County Clare Santa has created a magical illuminated festive trail for all to enjoy!

Spread across the park’s extensive 26 acres, take a wander along the park’s charming paths and enjoy an array of illuminated festive displays along the way. Meet a host of colourful festive characters, take a ride of the Bunratty Polar Express or a whirl on our magical carousels. And you never know you might even catch a glimpse of the big man in the red suit before he takes off to his workshop in the North Pole.

For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Dates: November 27th November to January 7th 2024 from 4pm to 8pm daily except for Dec 25th, 26th and Jan 1st

The beautifully illuminated forest walk at Marlay Park is a one-kilometre trail amongst the trees. Fully accessible for wheelchairs and buggies, and an oasis of calm beneath the twinkling lights.

For more information, check the Facebook page.

Movies shown include:

• The Grinch Stole Christmas (Dec 2nd)
• Elf (Dec 2nd)
• Home Alone (Dec 2nd)
• The Santa Clause (Dec 3rd)
• Elf (Dec 3rd)
• Love Actually (Dec 3rd)
• Home Alone (Dec 6th)
• Home Alone 2 (Dec 8th)
• The Polar Express (Dec 9th)
• National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (Dec 9th)
• Home Alone (Dec 10th)
• Love Actually (Dec 10th)
• Elf (Dec 13th)
• Elf (Dec 14th)
• The Polar Express (Dec 15th)
• Home Alone (Dec 16th)
• Elf (Dec 16th)
• Santa Claus the Movie (Dec 16th)
• It’s a Wonderful Life (Dec 17th)

For more information, check the Facebook page.

Movies shown include:

• Elf (Dec 16th)
• Home Alone (Dec 16th)

For more information, check the Facebook page.

Get our best content direct to your inbox! You’ll receive quick and easy recipes, fun ideas to entertain the kids, parenting tips, great competitions, as well as offers from brands we trust.

Dates for 2023 TBC

A drive-in movie with a difference!

Watch the Christmas classic movie Elf on the Big Screen, followed by a live link up with Santa direct from the North Pole. And then, by the magic of Christmas, watch as Santa appears in the flesh to greet all the boys and girls.

Showings:

• Dec 11th in Kinnegad
• Dec 18th in Portlaoise

For more information, check the Facebook page.

Movies shown include:

• Home Alone (Dec 6th)
• The Holiday (Dec 7th)
• The Polar Express (Dec 19th)
• Love Actually (Dec 19th)
• Santa Clause 2 (Dec 20th)
• Elf (Dec 20th)

For more information, check the Facebook page.

Movies shown include:

• Home Alone (Dec 8th)
• Elf (Dec 8th)
• Home Alone 2 (Dec 8th)
• Elf (Dec 9th)
• Home Alone 2 (Dec 9th)
• The Polar Express (Dec 10th)
• Elf (Dec 10th)
• Elf (Dec 15th)
• The Grinch (Dec 15th)
• Home Alone (Dec 16th)
• Elf (Dec 16th)
• The Polar Express (Dec 17th)
• The Holiday (Dec 17th)
• The Grinch (Dec 18th)
• Elf (Dec 18th)
• Frozen (Dec 19th)
• Love Actually (Dec 19th)
• The Santa Clause (Dec 20th)
• Home Alone (Dec 20th)
• Home Alone 2 (Dec 21st)
• Elf (Dec 21st)
• Miracle on 34th Street (1994) (Dec 22nd)
• Elf (Dec 22nd)

Other movies will be shown on December 28th, 29th, 30th and 31st.

For more information, check the Facebook page.

Alpacas are a favourite at Wicklow Christmas Market, adored by young and old alike. Alpacas are a softer, somewhat sassier version of the traditional reindeer and they’re sure the put a smile on your face with their antics as they strut and pose like rock stars!

You can visit our furry friends every Saturday & Sunday.

Santa and his merry band of elves are looking forward to returning to Galway and meeting all the wonderful boy and girls at Elf Town.

Your journey into Elf Town begins through the Grand Entrance at the Castle gates, where you will meet Glitterpants – Santa’s head Elf – who will get you started on your journey and show you Elf Town’s very own “Elf Town Shuffle”.

During your visit you will also meet Santa’s Reindeer, see Jack Frost’s ice house, the elf postal portal, the LED dance floor with Boogie the Elf, throw snowballs on the Elf Terrace, have a cookie with Mrs Claus, and enjoy a private visit with Santa. Finally, bring the gold coin you receive from Santa to Santa’s Toy Shop and trade it in for the toy of your choice!

Be sure to book your tickets early to avoid disappointment.

Get our best content direct to your inbox! You’ll receive quick and easy recipes, fun ideas to entertain the kids, parenting tips, great competitions, as well as offers from brands we trust.

As well as being the largest urban park in Europe, home to Dublin Zoo, Áras an Uachtaráin (President’s residence), Farmleigh House, visitor centre, picnic spots and plenty of playgrounds, Phoenix Park is also home to a large herd of deer.

Head out for a walk or bring the bikes/scooters and while you enjoy the park see if you can spot some of them.

At Coole Park in County Galway, next to the Visitor Centre you’ll find an enclosed space that hosts a herd of deer. It’s also a wonderful place to enjoy the nature walks, explore the forest, spot the swans on the lake or head into the visitor centre and play Hunt The Thimble like Lady Gregory’s grandchildren used to.

It’s free to visit both the park and the Visitor Centre, and there’s a café in the old stables courtyard.

Doneraile Wildlife Park, located 11kms north-east from Mallow, is free to enter and is a lovely place for a walk with the family. There are marked walking trails and there are herds of deer to spot as you go. Next to the house, there is a low level garden maze to enjoy.

You can find reindeer on the woodland walk at Newbridge House and, according to one elf we spoke to, Santa might even be seen coming to feed his reindeer on Christmas Eve before they head off for their epic round the world journey.

Ireland’s Lapland takes place every year at Glendeer Pet Farm with Santa and you will also get to see and feed his real live deer Dancer & Prancer, along with a crib with a live cow and donkey, the Elves’ workshop & lots more Christmas scenes as part of the Christmas experience.

Share in the magic of Christmas and take the Rathwood Santa Train Adventure through the Enchanted Forest to visit Santa as he prepares for the most wonderful time of the year.

The Train Adventure takes you on a ride through the Enchanted Forest where you can meet Rudolph and the other Reindeer along the way before arriving at Santa’s woodland home, where each family meets Santa.

Date: December 17th 2023 from 1pm to 3pm

Price: FREE

Santa, Mrs Claus along with their team of elves and Frosty the Snowman will be making a stop at Lough Key Forest and Activity Park this December 17th. You can:

• Have a meet and greet with Santa
• Enjoy mulled wine and festive treats
• Take some beautiful festive photos.

Booking Details: No booking required for this event. To find out more, check out the Lough Key Forest and Activity Park Facebook page.

Dates: Weekends in December

Prices: Free

Bring the little ones to visit Santa at IKEA in Dublin, and they can enjoy some festive activities while they visit.

Santa’s grotto is located in the main entrance and he will be there on selected dates in the run up to Christmas. We hear that this Santa is excellent with any children who may have additional needs.

For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Get our best content direct to your inbox! You’ll receive quick and easy recipes, fun ideas to entertain the kids, parenting tips, great competitions, as well as offers from brands we trust.

Reminder, our criteria to be included here as a value place to visit Santa in Ireland was €60 or less for a family of four.

Dates: 17th November to 23rd December

Prices: €13.50 per child including gift, €6 per adult

The award winning and original Santa’s Magical Cabin returns for this 2023 Winter season! Upon check-in an elf guide will meet each family and take them directly to meet Santa Claus in his magical cabin.

Children will be amazed by what Santa knows about them, thanks to the Santa Needs to Know forms, filled in at the time of booking. Santa will also give each child a beautiful age appropriate gift. Everyone will be entertained throughout by energetic elves who will tell everyone exactly how Santa, his reindeer and all the elves prepare for Christmas. Book your visit now! 

Venues:

• Dunnes Stores, Patrick Street, Cork City
• Dunnes Stores, Ilac Centre, Dublin 1
• Dunnes Stores, Ennis, Co Clare
• Dunnes Stores, Kilnamanagh Shopping Centre, Tallaght, Dublin 24
• Jetland Shopping Centre, Limerick City
• The Kyle Centre, Portlaoise, Co Laois

Dates: November 16th to December 22nd

Prices: €17 per child, €11 per adult

A team from the North Pole 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.

On the Santa Experience, you’ll see the Elf Dressing Rooms, the Igloo Clubhouse and the North Pole Skills Zone.

Then it will be time to step inside Santa’s very special Croke Park cabin to meet the man himself. You can take a photo with Santa and tell him about your predictions for the 2023 GAA All-Ireland Championships!

Every child will receive a small GAA-themed gift and photos will also be available to purchase if you wish.

For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Dates: November 27th to December 24th 2023

Prices: €24 per child, adults go free (max 2 adults per child)

Head to the Winter Wonderland, set in a beautifully crafted timber village with thousands of sparkling lights. On arrival, check-in at the ticket office where every child will receive a personal passport that Santa will stamp for you.

With your ticket, step through the Secret Wardrobe into the Magic Garden, and on to the Candy Cane Trail for some riddles and games with the elves. Now it’s only a few short steps through the gingerbread garden and it’s into the Elves’ Workshop where you’ll see some of the amazing wooden toys that the Elves have made. Then head to visit Mrs Claus who has a wonderful collection of story books and is always busy making mince pies for Santa and dinner for the Elves. She will give every child a special note for the Fairies and maybe some secret ‘Reindeer Food’ for Christmas Eve.

Finally, an Elf will call you in to visit Santa for a chat and a wrapped present!

This year funds raised will go Ireland’s National Autism Charity, As I am.

For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Dates: Various through December

Prices: TBC for 2023

Santa visits Arnotts every year and we are just waiting on him to confirm the dates for 2023! Each year, all proceeds raised from Santa visits are given to partner charities.

Your visit to Santa includes a souvenir badge for each child. A professional photograph of your visit can be purchased at an additional cost.

For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Dates: Fridays to Sundays from November 17th to December 17th

Prices: €20 per child

A trip to the market is a festive experience like no other. Immerse yourselves in this winter wonderland; marvel at the glittering lights, soak up the festive music, and lose yourselves in a world of colour and merriment. Top off your trip with the little ones by paying a visit to the man in red himself!

For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Dates: November 14th to December 24th 2023

Prices: From €16 for one child; €28 for 2 children and €38 for 3 children and €48 for 4 children. Parents go Free.

This year the Magic Elves are waiting for you, so they can create the most wondrous Christmas Experience for you and your family. After your family create their very own snow storm, it’s off to see Santa in his incredible North Pole Magic Grotto, receive your presents.

For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Dates: Select dates from December 8th to 17th

Prices: €16 per child (+ €2.13 Eventbrite booking fee)babies under 12 months with a sibling and adults go free

Olive’s Room elves will be on hand to help the children decorate gingerbread biscuits, create a festive decoration and draw a picture or post their letter to Santa. Each child will receive their craft, a gingerbread, hot chocolate. There will be face-painting with the fabulous Rosie from Roar.

Michelle La Grue photographer will also be there to capture the moment if you wish, and printed photos are available for anun extra cost. Michelle volunteers her time.

All profits from the event and photos go to Laura Lynn.

For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Dates: December 10th from 10am to 6pm

Prices: €10 per child, adults go free proceeds go to the RNLI

Visit Santa in his unique and magical grotto at Wicklow Lifeboat Station where elves will be on hand to face paint and provide a treat of cookies and milk for all the children. Santa also has a little treat for all the boys and girls and Rookie the Reindeer and Santa will be happy to have photos taken with everyone.

All proceeds raised go to the RNLI

For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Dates: November 25th and 26th 2023

Prices: A visit to the Christmas Market is free. Santa visits are €50 for a family ticket (2 adults and 2 children), €18 per child, €10 per adult

Get ready for the fantastic Christmas-filled experience that is Winter Wonderland at Barretstown. Browse through the Christmas market stalls, soak up the Christmas music, enjoy some delicious food in Elizabeth’s Tree House, and take part in the Christmas raffle. And of course, you’ll be able to top it all off with a visit to the man himself in the wonderful grotto…Santa!

There will also be magic tricks, face painting, Christmas stories and the chance to meet the Christmas elves.

For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Dates: Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays from December 1st 2023

Prices: €10 per child, adults go free

This year at SOLAS, ring in the festive season with a host of events and the Santa Experience. Included in your ticket is the chance to walk through the wonky winter wonderland, full of surprises and meet Santa’s helpers and Sean the Sheep! Then ring the bell to see if Santa will appear to give you a special gift.

For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Dates: Weekends from November 25th to December 17th

Prices: €15 per child and adults go free.

Santa will return to The Pavilion again this year to greet all the girls and boys in advance of his round the world trip on Christmas morning!

Your Santa visit costs €15 per child and includes a children’s gift. You can add a family photograph for an extra cost if you wish.

For further information and to book tickets, click here.

Expect a warm welcome to a twinkling world of festive fun. Feel the sense of anticipation grow with each step as you descend to Santa’s busy workshop to meet his special helpers, the IRE Elves, celebrated throughout the city for their exceptional gift-giving expertise.

Of course they might need a little help as they bustle about crafting beautiful toys and treats – but that’s where you come in. Make magical memories, working with the Elves to put the finishing touches to gifts that will make their way around the world. That is all before you meet the star of the show himself. Santa Claus, with his beaming smile and snowy white beard, will captivate both young and old, spreading seasonal cheer for the perfect start to your best Christmas ever!

Tickets to visit Santa’s Secret Workshop at the International Rugby Experience can be booked now and tickets cost just €25 per child (including gift) and adults and over 13’s is €15. You will also receive an exclusive discount code to enjoy an interactive tour of the International Rugby Experience.