With twinkling lights in the trees, phenomenal light shows, festive surroundings, and often tasty or warming treats to enjoy along the way, these wonderful illuminated winter trails in Ireland make for a truly memorable family activity.
Don’t forget to wrap up warm and take plenty of photos!
Fun Winter Trails in Ireland
Tree Top Lights at Beyond The Trees Avondale, Wicklow
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.
Wild Lights at Dublin Zoo
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.
Wonderlights ‘The Night Sky’ at Malahide Castle & Gardens, Dublin
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.
Land of Light at Belvedere House, Westmeath
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.
Enchanted Winter Garden at Antrim Castle
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.
Don’t Miss…
Get wrapped up in the magic of Christmas with these fantastic family events and activities around Ireland – seasonal fun guaranteed!
Christmas Trail of Lights at Bunratty Castle, Clare
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.
Illuminated Forest Walk at Marlay Park, Dublin
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.