Ireland is home to some truly unique Christmas goings on, and these are some of the ones you need to know about.
If you thought Christmas in Ireland couldn’t get any more exciting, we have some significant events which will add to the excitement.
From unique arctic experiences to meeting Santa and his elves in the grotto, there are so many fun things to get involved in all over the country this festive season.
So, let’s look at Christmas in Ireland 2022 and the ten events you can’t miss this Christmas.
10. Wild Arctic Experience, Donegal – a truly unique experience
If you’ve always dreamed of experiencing the North Pole, this is a fantastic event in Donegal that transports you to the Arctic and is not to be missed.
Witness Santa and his elves hard at work at the toy shop, spot unique Arctic animals and marvel at the magical lights while sipping on a steamy hot chocolate.
When: now until 23 December
Address: Wild Ireland, Dundrean, Burnfoot, Co. Donegal, F93 KN7X
9. Elf Town, Galway – an event kids will remember forever
This incredible two-hour experience at Galway Racecourse is jam-packed with surprises and a meeting with Santa.
Still, the best part is children will receive an Elf Town branded gift pack which will be posted to them before their visit, including a map of Elf Town and a special Golden Ticket.
When: now until 23 December
Address: Galway Racecourse, Ballybrit, Galway, H91 V654
8. The Christmas Experience at Tayto Park, Dublin – interactive family fun
This interactive event is not to be missed, especially for families, since this visit includes a meeting with Santa, a guided tour by his head elf Jungles, a visit to candy land, a chance to see the reindeer stables, and so much more.
Children of all ages will have a wonderful time at Tayto Park this Christmas.
When: now until 23 December
Address: Tayto Park, Kilbrew, Ashbourne, Co. Meath, A84 EA02
7. Winterval, Waterford – Ireland’s Christmas Festival
Head down to Ireland’s Christmas festival, which is home to markets where you can get gifts and traditional food, ride the Winterval carousel, and witness Santa’s arrival and the captivating Winterval lights show.
This is one fantastic event to attend if you want a Christmas in Ireland to remember.
When: now until 23 December
Address: The Mall, Waterford, X91 PK15
6. Alpine Skate Trail, Cork – Christmas on ice in Cork
Christmas in Ireland wouldn’t be complete without a day of ice skating, which makes for a fun and exciting activity for adults and children.
Corks Alpine Skate Trail is held at Fota house and features a 400m trail and 500 sqm rink; this experience is one of the best Christmas gift ideas out there.
When: now until 29 January
Address: Fota House & Gardens, Foaty, Cork
5. Donegal’s Lapland – a unique festive tradition
Donegal has some of the best events when it comes to Christmas in Ireland, and this is undoubtedly one of them.
Featuring live Christmas shows, a visit to a Santas toy shop, magical festive lights, and surprise gifts, there is so much to enjoy at Donegal’s Lapland this holiday season.
When: now until 22 December
Address: Doagh Famine Village, Lagacurry, Ballyliffin, Co. Donegal, F93 PK19
4. Bunratty Castle Trail of Lights – a stunning festive scene
The 15th-century Bunratty Castle is a spectacular place to visit any time of year, but it is even more special.
Here at Christmas, you can enjoy a magical trail filled with festive vibes, charming paths, Christmas carousels and even a polar express which makes for a fun adventure.
When: now until 23 December
Address: Bunratty West, Bunratty, Co. Clare, Ireland
3. Wild Lights at Dublin Zoo – one of the nation’s favourite festive events
There is a genuinely captivating event for Christmas in Ireland, which we encourage you to attend.
Wild Lights sees Dublin Zoo transformed into a magically illuminated wonderland, an incredible event for all ages and an event that everyone looks forward to each year in Ireland.
When: now until 9 January
Address: Saint James’ (part of Phoenix Park), Dublin 8, Ireland
2. Galway Christmas Markets – for Christmas shopping and delicious festive food
The popular Galway Christmas markets are a one-stop shop this holiday season to grab some affordable gifts, visit Santas grotto, enjoy some German beer, indulge in Irish food, and enjoy the festive rides in the heart of the city in Eyre Square.
When: now until 22 December
Address: Eyre Square, Galway, Ireland
1. Polar Express in Clonakilty – a great Christmas activity
This 1.5-hour event takes place at the Model Railway Village in Clonakilty, West Cork and features an indoor and outdoor festive walk-through experience.
Children will be in for a treat when boarding the Polar Express, and they can look forward to an interactive look into the world of Santa and his elves.
When: now until 24 December
Address: Inchydoney Road, Desert, Clonakilty, Co. Cork, P85 HR26, Ireland
Notable mentions
Killarney Sleigh Rides, Kerry: Take a memorable sleigh ride through Killarney town or the majestic winter wonderland that is Killarney National Park.
Wonderlights, Dublin: This evening spectacle at Malahide Castle is a magical experience for all ages and runs right through to 3 January.
Christmas Island, Wicklow: Enjoy traditional foods, presents, and meetings with Santa and his elves at Hidden Valley, Wicklow, this Christmas, which is ideal for families.
Winter Wonderland at Westport House, Mayo: Until 23 December, visitors will get the chance to visit Santa in his grotto, explore the festive decorations by train and enjoy a magical atmosphere.
FAQs about Christmas in Ireland
How is Christmas celebrated in Ireland?
The lead-up to Christmas, including the events, is one of the most exciting ways to celebrate, but the opening of presents on the 25th and the big Christmas dinner define a typical Irish Christmas.
What is a unique tradition in Ireland for Christmas?
The Christmas morning swim is a tradition that is alive and well each year, no matter how cold the water is.
Where should I go for Christmas in Ireland?
Dublin, Galway, or Cork are vibrant places to spend Christmas, with lots of festive events to enjoy.
So, if it’s an epic Christmas in Ireland you hope to experience this 2022, then make sure to visit a few of these incredible festive events happening all over the country.
