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.

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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.

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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.

The MS Readathon encourages children to open a wonderful world of adventure and imagination through reading for a great cause.

For kids who are already bookworms, it’s a chance to perhaps challenge themselves with longer, more advanced books.

For children who aren’t so keen on reading, the MS Readathon can help them rediscover the wonder they felt when they first heard those magic words “Once upon a time…”.

The MS Readathon will take place from 1st – 30th November 2023.

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Taking part in the MS Readathon is easy – just sign up at www.msreadathon.ie and start reading. Children can register with their school (teachers, you can register your class) or individually.

Your child can pick whatever books they like, and as many as they like, then ask friends and family to sponsor them. After November 30^th this money should be sent back to MS Ireland.

And for participating schools around the country, the MS Readathon website has lots of teacher resources to print and lesson plans to use.

Over 9,000 people have MS in Ireland. Multiple Sclerosis is a chronic disease, the most common disabling neurological condition affecting young adults in Ireland, which is usually diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 40. Three times as many women as men are affected, and there is no known cause or cure for MS.

MS Ireland is the national organisation providing service, information and support to the whole MS community.

Dates: December 18th to 31st 2023, 2 shows daily from December 21st

Many years ago, the King and Queen of a far off Kingdom were blessed with a baby girl with magical, golden hair. They named her Rapunzel. One day, the jealous, evil witch Mother Gothel kidnapped the child and locked her in a tower; selfishly squandering all her powers for herself. With the help of local hairdresser Dame Fanny Follicle (Dame Nellie Nu Nu), her silly son Pascal and the dashing Prince Rider plus the familiar Liberty Panto Team in action…… will Rapunzel ever escape her tower?

There’s only one way to find out!

Dates: November 26th 2023 to January 7th 2023

It wouldn’t be Christmas without a visit to the Gaiety Panto! The Gaiety Theatre has hosted the annual Christmas Panto each year since 1873 and families come from far and wide to experience the Gaiety Christmas Panto. For many it has become as much a family Christmas tradition as Santa himself!

Join the magic of this rags to riches tale to see what dreams are rally made of!

Dates: November 24th 2023 to January 14th 2024; sensory night on December 29th @ 6pm

This year’s show promises to be as fun, fresh and magical as ever. Creating an exciting new script with plenty of twists, turns and adventure, the Helix panto promises yet another hilarious production for all the family to enjoy.

Join the cast as they on their journey of intrigue and adventure for this year’s TheatreworkX panto Treasure Island

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Dates: From December 12th 2023 to January 7th 2023

Alan Hughes and Karl Broderick present this year’s Panto, Sammy, Buffy and the Beanstalk at the National Stadium, Dublin. Sammy Sausages, Buffy, Sparkle and friends will be back for more family fun.

Dates: December 7th 2023 to January 7th 2024

Once upon a time in far, far, away land, the beautiful Princess Aurora pricks her finger on a spinning wheel and is doomed to sleep for 100 years by the wicked Maleficent. Join Nanny Nelly and the gang in this spellbinding tale of magical fairies, dastardly deeds and a desperate attempt to break the curse. Did we mention that the charming Prince might need saving?

With a surprise or three, Mill Productions’ one hour panto is packed with colourful costumes, sparkling songs, dazzling dance routines and enough laughs to keep the whole family buzzing.

Dates: December 20th 2023 to January 7th 2024

Join Olly, Polly on their magic carpet for a roof raising, action packed spin on the classic tale of Aladdin!

With a laugh-a-minute script, dazzling dancers and all star cast, Olly, Polly & The Magic Lamp is bursting with magic and mayhem and is not to be missed!

Dates: December 6th to 31st 2023. Sensory performance on December 19th 2023

The team who brought you ‘Jack & The Beanstalk’, ‘Snow White’ and ‘Sleeping Beauty’ return for The Civic Panto 2023.

Cinderella lives a life of drudgery, bullied by her horrible Ugly sisters, Dottie and Lottie and her only comfort is her pal Tickles! Prince Charming is holding a ball to meet his bride to be. Could this be the chance that Cinders has been waiting for?

This is the classic tale of rags to riches with our usual magic of panto antics at The Civic.

For more information and booking details, click here.

Dates: January 4th to 21st 2024; sensory show on January 11th 2024

Panto is back…oh yes it is!

Once again Coolmine Panto Group will be back in Draíocht with Freezin!

A story of true love and acceptance between sisters Princess Ella and Princess Hannah, Freezin. Ella has magical powers to freeze objects and people, which she doesn’t know how to control. When faced with danger, the two discover their hidden potential and the powerful bond of sisterhood.

Dates: November 29th 2023 to January 21st 2023 with Relaxed Performances on December 13th for families and January 11th for schools

Full of fe-fi-fo-FUN, join Jack, Nanny Nellie and a host of lovable companions in a spectacular show packed with amazing colour, spellbinding costumes, music, breath-taking dance, and a tonne of belly laughs – this production will be a magical musical rollercoaster ride for all the family to enjoy this Christmas.

Dates: December 21st 2023 to January 14th 2024

Sleeping Beauty will see Panto favourites, including Richie Hayes & Myles Breen, along with some fun new faces, come together for a show packed with comedy, music, glitz, glamour and a heroine that thinks nothing of nodding off mid show (we might need to have a word with her!).

Dates: 29th December 2023 to 14th January 2024 – Sensory Friendly Performance will take place on January 7th at 12pm.

When the Wicked Witch Bogzilla is rejected by King Barney, she transforms him into an Ogre and wreaks havoc on his beloved Kingdom. However, all may not be lost. With enough trickery and charm from an amazing talkative cat and the good services of the kind Fairy Cakes, watch the characters undertake their fight for justice to restore harmony to their haven and save their King.

Dates: January 18th to 22nd 2023

Join hero Aladdin and his best friend Bish Bosh who, along with his Mammy the Widow Twankey and little sisters Wishy and Washy, are out on a new and exciting Arabian adventure to get rich quick and win the hand of the beautiful Princess Jasmine.

But Aladdin has to watch out as the evil Abanazar wants to get his hands on “The Mystical Lamp of Salsabar” and control Omar the magical all powerful Genie inside.

Your three wishes are granted as Wexford Panto returns in their new home The National Opera House with the South East’s biggest Panto!

For more information and booking details, click here.

Dates: December 1st to 30th 2023 – Tickets on-sale from September 26th

Join the Waterford Panto Society for the tangled tale of Rapunzel as the Theatre Royal once again becomes the happiest place to be in Waterford this December.

All the familiar faces are back in a fun-filled, action-packed show for all the family. You’ll get all the usual up-to-date pop songs, laugh-out-loud comedy, slick choreography, sets by Waterford Spraoi, spectacular sound and lighting and a full live band.

Dates: December 23rd 2023 to January 1st 2024; sensory show on December 22nd

Jack lives in a lovely little cottage, with his mother and his sister, Sara. They are very poor and are way behind on their rent. The Wicked Squire is about to evict them if they can’t pay their rent. Jack’s mother sends him to the local market to sell their only possession – their beloved cow Dave. On the way to the market Jack meets two Strangers and they convince him to exchange Dave for a bag of magic beans!!!

Join Pantaloons and find out how the story ends in another spectacular pantomime, packed with smash-hit songs, stunning sets, fabulous dance routines, lots of laughs and plenty of seasonal sparkle.

Dates: December 7th to 30th 2023

This Christmas, Mullingar Pantomime Group bring to the stage The Little Mermaid.

Featuring well known songs and the immensely talented dancers, it is an experience not to be missed. The show will include the ever-present Movie, which has become an integral part of the annual Panto.

Dates: December 8th 2023 to January 7th 2024

Christmas without a panto is like Summer without ice cream, Easter without eggs or Halloween without witches!

Aladdin and his long-suffering mum, Widow Twanky, have fallen on hard times. At their laundry, the spin drier has stopped working. So has Aladdin. He’s super lazy – which is like normal lazy but wearing a cape.

So when the mysterious Abanazar appears and promises untold wealth if he will just fetch a lamp from a cave, Aladdin jumps at the opportunity. (Well maybe not ‘jumps.’)

And so begins an adventure involving magic lamps, genies, flying carpets and a chance encounter with the Princess Jasmine. How will it all end?

Find out at the Lime Tree Theatre where the team who brought you the hit Jack And The Beanstalk take you on the hilarious musical adventure that is Aladdin And His Magic Lamp.

Dates: November 30th 2023 to January 7th 2024

Meet a storyteller who loses her words in this festive fable about the power of stories. Will our spinner of yarns rediscover her wonderful tales in time for Christmas?

Written by Stephen Beggs and Simon Magill. Produced by the MAC.

Dates: October 28th to 31st 2023

Head to the Irish National Stud for the annual Halloween Spooktacular! Take part in brilliantly creepy arts and crafts workshops, magic shows and scary storytelling, and much more.

All the regular attractions are available, including an opportunity to meet the Living Legends team, visit the Irish Racehorse Experience, take the fairy trail route, and walk along the stepping stones in the Japanese Gardens for hours of outdoor fun. This is also a lovely time to meet some of the horses in their paddock.

This is a full day out so allow 4-5 hours to really make the most of it. The restaurant will be serving seasonal recipes along with the usual yummy cakes and treats.

Pre-booking is essential and all events are included in the admission prices. For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Dates: October 21st to November 5th 2023

Experience all the crazy outdoor Halloween fun and frolics at Luggwoods. Hooky Spooky Luggwoods characters will guide you along the forest trail as you help them find the ingredients for the friendly witches Halloween brew – she might even have a Trick or Treat for you too!

Child tickets from €19, babies under 1 go free, adult tickets from €16, book online.

Dates: October 27th to 31st 2023 (Various dates and times)

Celebrate the spooky season with a live Halloween spooky-but-not-too-scary show. Brought to you by the team that brings you the Civic Panto. Join Princess Arabella and her trusty butler Wiggles as they face a mysterious challenge in Spookville. When three mischievous witches pay a visit to her palace, things take a thrilling turn. Will they triumph over the witchy mischief and save the day?

There will be a sensory friendly performance on October 29th at 2pm. Call the box office on 01 4627477 to book.

Child tickets from €14, adult tickets from €17 or get a family ticket from €60. Find out more and book your tickets here.

Dates: October 27th to 30th 2023 from 10.30am to 4pm daily

It’s time for the Creepy Crawl and Haunted House trails at Fota House & Gardens.

The Creepy Crawl Trails is suitable for children aged 3 to 12 years and the Haunted House combined with the Creepy Crawl Trail is suitable for kids aged 7 to 12 years. You will need to keep your wits about you as there may be ghosts and ghouls around every corner!

For more details and to book your trail click here.

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Dates: October 28th to 31st from 10am-4pm

Halloween has its roots firmly planted in Celtic tradition and Irish folklore, so to tie in with its Irish heritage this Halloween event will take place in the Irish Agricultural Museum.

Join some creepy characters as you follow the witches trail around the museum finding the clues to solve the mystery. Each guest will receive a Halloween treat and enjoy some Halloween fun along the way.

The Halloween trail is aimed at family groups and is not intended to have a high scare factor – just lots of fun!

Dressing in costume is highly recommended!

For more information, click here.

Dates: 27th to 30th October and October 28th to November 5th

Head to Beyond the Trees Avondale and join in a fun Pumpkin Hunt at the Treetop Walk which will be transformed into a Halloween wonderland with hay bales, pumpkins, and eerie graves. Participate in the Pumpkin Hunt competition for fantastic prizes, and on Halloween day, kids in costume get in for free!

The main Visitor Centre will be packed with family fun:

• Trick or Treat
• Traditional Irish music
• Get creative with festive arts & crafts
• Join in the Halloween games
• Enjoy Halloween-themed food, and more.

Also from Oct 28 to Nov 5, listen to spine-tingling Halloween Stories on the Tower.

For more information and to book tickets in advance online, click here.

Dates: October 29th to November 3rd 2023

Lough SpooKey takes place during Halloween mid-term and events this year include

• Halloween Movie time
• Walking with Dinosaurs
• Costume Party with DJ
• Giant inflatables
• Balloon modelling and kids games
• Cecilsteins Lough Spookey Expedition
• Mud Bugs Welly Adventure for kids aged  5 to 10 years. Booking is essential and can by done by calling 071 9673122 or emailing bookings@loughkey.ie

For more information and updates, check the Facebook page.

Dates: October 21st to 30th 2023 (select dates) – School trips: Monday 23rd – Friday 27th October.

K2Alpacas in Wicklow has teamed up with the Down Syndrome Centre to host a fundraising Halloween event. Make it a family day out and enjoy the fun activities including:

• Pick your own Pumpkin
• Meet the Alpacas
• Spooky game boards
• Enchanted Fairy forest walk
• Photo Booths
• Refreshments & goodies

The pumpkin Patch is open on October 21st, 22nd, 28th, 29th & 30th. School trips: Monday 23rd – Friday 27th October.

The Centre provides bespoke services for children and young adults with Down syndrome. By supporting the Pumpkin Patch event, you are helping to provide services to children with Down syndrome.

For more information and to make a booking, or a donation check out the website.

Dates: October 15th to 31st 2023 (Select dates)

Pooka Spooka at Causey Farm is a Halloween extravaganza with lots to look forward to, including:

• Scarecrow corn maze
• Mirror maze
• Magician
• Hayride
• Limb throwing
• Broomstick ride
• Story telling
• Traditional games and crafts

Suitable for families with children aged 2-12. Online booking is essential.

For more information, check the Facebook page.

Dates: From October 28th to November 4th

Birr Castle Demesne in Offaly promise tricks and treats for all the family this Halloween, including the Halloween Pumpkin Trail, where you will follow your map in search for all the pumpkins lost within the gardens. Costumes are encouraged!

Birr Castle Demesne is open from 9am to 4.30pm each day of the Halloween mid-term break. The Treehouse Adventure Playground and Courtyard Cafe will also be open daily.

Dates: October 23rd to October 31st

There are few things more deliciously indulgent than an afternoon tea, and now your little ones can join in with the fun too with Halloween themed afternoon tea specials. Enjoy a selection of homemade halloween themed miniature treats, desserts and selection of finger food, the family afternoon tea is perfect to mark this fun holiday or to gather with friends and family.

You could also Treat your family this Halloween Midterm to a Break in Galway City!  The Connacht Hotel prides itself on appreciating the importance of their younger guests and families.

The Friendly Fellows Kids Club is always a huge hit with families at The Connacht. Guests who book direct on The Connacht Hotel website can avail of their kid’s club for FREE. Taking place during weekends and Halloween school holidays this popular attraction is for the younger guests of the hotel.

Kids from 3 – 15 years are welcome to take part. The Kids Club provides families with fully equipped playrooms and action-packed entertainment programmes including, arts & crafts, sports activities, musical games, competitions, talent shows, quizzes, dancing and much more which can be enjoyed with the friendly fellows team!

Book Your Halloween Stay Today and you’ll get:

✔️ Family Dining in the child-friendly Rueben’s Restaurant.
✔️ Live music every evening from 10pm in Bar Solo throughout the Halloween midterm.
✔️ Leisure Centre with 20m Swimming Pool & Kids Pool.
✔️ Complimentary Kids club when you book direct on The Connacht Hotel Website.
✔️ Family Halloween themed afternoon tea (*booking essential).
✔️ Complimentary use of cots and/or rollaway bed(s), subject to maximum occupancy.
✔️ Complimentary use of baby bathtub, blankets, and highchairs.

Dates: October 28th to November 1st 2023 for Hurloween Tours and November 2nd & 3rd for Teidí Tours

Explore Irish games and ancient myths this Samhain with spirited guides at the ‘Hurloween’ Tours at the GAA Museum. Instead of ghouls, they will be talking goals, old Celtic traditions, and mythology to celebrate the origins of Ireland’s earliest festival.

These special tours are where GAA-mad kids can learn more about Ireland’s ancient sport from the time of Setanta right up to the era of Cian Lynch!

‘Hurloween’ Tours are suitable for children aged between five and 12 accompanied by an adult. Tours include a visit to the Croke Park dressing rooms and a walk pitchside where our guides will teach you more about the history and skill of hurling and camogie.

The trip also includes a ‘Warriors and Hurlers Workshop’ where younger visitors will learn more about the story of Setanta, a master hurler who used his sliotar and camán to slay the hound of Chulainn and receive the new name Cú Chulainn!

Everyone on tour will have a chance to visit the GAA Museum and Interactive Games Zone, and every child on tour will receive a book telling the story of Setanta and other Irish legends – the perfect Halloween treat!

Teidí Tours include a bear making workshop and a family friendly guided tour of Croke Park with time afterwards in the GAA Museum.

Hurloween’ and Teidí Tours at Croke Park are ideal for families looking for seasonal fun rather than scares.

Tickets can be booked online in advance

Dates: October 28th to November 5th 2023

Follow the Samhain Trail this mid-term break at Strokestown Park. The trail is self guided and runs from 11am to 4pm daily. Adults and kids under 1 go free. Be sure to dress up in your most ghoulish costume! And collect all the clues for a spookalicious treat!

For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Dates: October 27th to November 4th 2023 (Select dates)

Lú Festival of Light will be a spectacular urban animation show and family festival. It is a free event and will showcase the myths and legends associated with the region, through lighting and laser mediums.

In addition to the shows, there will be music, street performers and walking tours of Drogheda town.

Suitable for families of all ages. This is a FREE festival.

For more information, check the website.

Dates: October 21st, 22nd, 28th-31st and November 1st 2023

Head off on a spooky adventure through Emerald Park to find hidden treasure along your tricky trail. There’s something for all the family, with fun interactive games, spooky story- telling, potions, spell casting and magical performances by a whole host of characters!

Pre-booking is essential. This event is included in all ticket prices and no additional payment is required.

Dates: Tuesday October 31st 2023

Children’s Health Foundation is calling on individuals, families, community groups, schools, creches and more to get spooky this Halloween by dressing up, hosting your own Trick or Treat party, and raising funds to support sick children and their families in Children’s Health Ireland hospitals and urgent care centres.

Visit www.childrenshealth.ie/trickortreat to sign up for your free party pack. Your monster bash can be as big or as small as you like, and the funds you raise will be put to work where they are needed most in Children’s Health Ireland at Crumlin, Temple Street, Tallaght, and Connolly to support sick children from all over Ireland.

Dates: October 29th 2023

Being a vampire sucks, but being Dracula’s younger brother is driving Jackula batty.

Join Jackula on a spooktacular quest to step out of his older brother’s shadow and become the world’s first fun vampire. Laugh as Jackula makes his pet ghost dance.  Gasp as Jackula balances five glasses of water on his face. Smile as children help perform spellbinding tricks.

An inspirational Halloween magic show about staying true to yourself.

It’s not trick or treat. It’s trick AND treat. After the show every child is invited to perform at trick with Jackula and receive a treat. Great for photos and makes sure everyone is part of the fun.

Suitable for ages 3-12. For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Date: October 29th 2023 from 5.30pm

Macnas are inviting kids and grown-ups to join them in welcoming a special visitor to Galway this Halloween!

Famed for creating giants in both familiar and unexpected landscapes around the world, Macnas will bring their signature magic to their own home for the past 35 years in the heart of Galway.

The world-renowned masters of visual storytelling invite one and all to come down to Macnas HQ at Fisheries Field, Galway to see the Halloween Parade emerge for the first time on the banks of the River Corrib. The theme this year ‘Cnámha La Loba’ inspired by the legend of La Loba, a wild wolf-woman who collects and preserves the bones of animals!

For more information, click here.

Dates: October 28th to November 5th

This is a brilliantly spooky time to visit Slieve Aughty for their annual Family Howl-O-Ween Festival.

It’s a spooky time at Slieve Aughty during the Halloween Festival, with ghosts and goblins galore, haunted houses, Halloween tricks and treats, scary stories, horses and ponies to pet and ride, arts and crafts, Halloween Evening Kids Disco Party and Charity Bank Holiday Monday.

Enjoy the fresh air of autumn with a walk to the haunted house and dare yourself to see if the corpse of the lady with the velvet ribbon is still there.  This walk is approximately 45 minutes long and is not recommended for young children.

For the little ones, go on a witch’s walk (a short walk to Slieve Aughty’s enchanted wood). Along the way, count how many ghosts, witches and other Halloween creatures you see hiding in the forest and answer the Halloween riddles that help guide the way.  Children ages 5-12 can visit the Enchanted Forest aboard a quiet pony – rides leave every half an hour and advanced booking is recommended!

For more information, click here.

Dates: October 21st, 22nd, 28th, 29th, 30th and 31st 2023

There will be pumpkin picking and more fun at Navan Adventure Centre as your ticket includes a trip to the pumpkin patch to pick your own pumpkin, as well as the carving area, witch’s slimy snot-making, inflatables obstacles courses and slides, adventure obstacle course, inflatable maze, mini golf, and FootGolf.

For more information, check the Facebook page.

Dates: September 30th to November 1st 2023 (Select dates)

Pick your own pumpkin from the pumpkin patch – or a ghoulish gourd from the wonky patch!

Other activities include a corn maze to get lost in, a chance to meet the alpacas, seasonal storytelling, a walk through the haunted ghost bus, a visit to the pumpkin pixie village, and meeting the witch at her haunted cottage!

For more information, check the Facebook page.

Dates: October 21st to 31st 2023 (Select dates)

Halloween events at Clonfert Pet Farm for 2023 will include:

• Haunted house
• Kids carnival
• Pumpkin patch
• Kids disco
• Arts and crafts
• and more!

Online booking is essential for this event.

Keep up to date on their Facebook page.

Dates: November 1st to 4th 2023

Hullabaloo 2023 Festival workshops and family performances will take place in Birr, Clara, Edenderry and more during the Festival dates.

Children and families can enjoy art, storytelling, animation, film, musical theatre, dance, paper folding, craft and much, much more!

For more information on events, click here.

Dates: October 29th 2023

Nestled near the edge of the Blessington lakes, the beautiful demesne of Russborough House will be transformed into a place of Halloween fun for all the family, and all to help raise vital funds for local Kildare children’s charity, Barretstown.

Sign up to take part in this seriously spooky walk; with proceeds from ticket sales supporting Barretstown. Spooky woodland characters will guide you along the 2.4km looped outdoor walking trail, through the atmospheric Russborough woodland, on your quest to spot as many spooky creatures along your way. Have a fun few hours, in your best fancy-dress and in doing so, help raise vital funds for Barretstown.

Dress up in your best fancy-dress and come join us for a fun day for all the family!

For more information, click here.

Date: October 21st 2023 from 2.30-4pm & November 2nd & 3rd

Looking for fun activities for Halloween? Join the Education team and get involved in some terrifying Halloween hands-on activities!

• October 21st – at this year’s Halloween Workshop, children will take part in a variety of fun and educational Halloween-themed activities, games, and arts & crafts.
• November 2nd & 3rd – children will enjoy a variety of indoor and outdoor activities including experiments, bug hunts, halloween crafts, including pumpkin picking and decorating and making mini-scarecrows, halloween games and more.

Workshops are suitable for ages 6 – 12.

For more information and to book tickets, click here.

Dates: October 19th to 30th 2023

Retro Drive-In Movies present a number of family options to enjoy over the Halloween Mid-term including:

• Hocus Pocus – October 19th & 29th
• Hotel Transylvania – October 21st
• Ghost Busters – October 21st
• Halloween Town – October 22nd
• Beetle Juice – October 22nd
• The Snapper – October 30th

For more information and to see the full line up and book tickets, click here.

Dates: October 31st to November 3rd 2023

The National Print Museum are having family-friendly tour, where you’ll interact directly with artefacts from the Museum’s collection this Halloween mid-term.

Learn about the history of print, experience the traditional craft of typesetting and printing, and make and decorate your very own printer’s hats! Tours run daily from 2pm to 3pm.

Visitors can also drop by the Creative Corner to make some Halloween crafts to take home.

Find out more and book your tickets here.

Date: November 4th

You can enjoy 2 family friendly Halloween shows at the Wexford Arts Centre:

• Teddy’s Haunted House suitable for kids up to 6 years
• The Ghost of Dorothy Dingley  suitable for kids aged 5 to 10 years

For more information and to book tickets, click here.