Counting down the days until Christmas? Here are our favourite Christmas experiences in Ireland you need to do this winter.
If all you can think about is tinsel, Christmas decorations, and presents, then it is time to start booking your Christmas experiences. With countless magical winter adventures taking place right across the country, the possibilities are endless.
Enjoy the festive cheer at Christmas markets, winter wonderlands, and Santa’s grottos. Many of our favourite experiences have already started accepting bookings for 2021, so don’t miss out!
Here are the ten best Christmas experiences in Ireland you need to do this winter.
10. Winterval, Co. Waterford – Ireland’s Christmas capital
Expect a round-trip, non-stop journey to a world of Christmas celebrations, festive city quarters, and, of course, a Christmas market.
Taking place in Waterford City, this magical experience is not to be missed, with countless events scheduled to take place.
Enjoy sleigh-worthy views from the top of the Waterford Eye before paying a visit to Santa and his elves.
More information: HERE
Address: Car Park, Bolton St, Waterford, Ireland
9. Winter Wonderland, Co. Mayo – a magical atmosphere
Spend some quality time with family and, of course, the leading man himself, Santa, at Westport House this winter.
The beautiful grounds have been transformed into a magical winter wonderland. Enjoy face painting and decoration making and take a journey onboard the Winter Wonderland Express Train.
More information: HERE
Address: Quay Rd, Westport Demesne, Westport, Co. Mayo, Ireland
8. Santa’s Enchanted Forest, Co. Dublin – an incredible setting
One of the best Christmas experiences in Ireland has to be a visit to Santa in his very own enchanted forest log cabin in Dublin.
Then, wander along the majestic forest trail while being guided by some Christmas characters. Surrounded by nature, keep your eyes peeled for some not-so-Christmasy characters.
More information: HERE
Address: Crooksling, Co. Dublin, Ireland
7. Cork North Pole Outpost Experience, Co. Cork – create magical memories
Santa and his elves are heading to Cork this winter to show all the good boys and girls some magic. Create lifelong memories with your family as you become enrolled as elves-in-training.
Become a part of the magic and mischief in this utterly entertaining experience, which is fun for all the family.
More information: HERE
Address: Cuskinny Court, Cobh, Cork, P24 R623, Ireland
6. Santa’s Train Adventure, Co. Carlow – a train journey to wonderland
Hop aboard the Rathwood Express for an unforgettable trip through Rathwood’s festive forest.
Make your way to the big top to see Santa, Mrs Claus, and the elves perform a phenomenal show. Let the magic continue with time spent at the Christmas funfair!
More information: HERE
Address: Rath East, Tullow, Co. Carlow, Ireland
5. Elf Town, Co. Galway – the most realistic Santa experience
The Galway Racecourse is set to be transformed into a beautiful holiday experience. Spend over two hours meeting Santa and his reindeers before meeting Santa’s fun and exciting elves.
Try your hand at learning the elf shuffle before embarking on the magical journey through Elf Town.
More information: HERE
Address: Ballybrit, Galway, H91 V654, Ireland
4. Santa’s House Express, Co. Kildare – a drive-thru experience
Situated on 1,100 acres of Palmerstown House Estate is one of the best Christmas experiences in Ireland. Say hello to Santa’s elves before marvelling at the magical displays in the enchanted forest.
Good boys and girls should pay a visit to the main man himself before heading to the festive funfair for some well-deserved fun!
More information: HERE
Address: Santa’s House Express Palmerstown House Estate, Johnstown, Co. Kildare, Ireland
3. Santa’s Enchanted Castle, Co. Wexford – a magical experience
Enniscorthy Castle is transformed each winter into a magical winter wonderland. Enjoy an enchanted Christmas show at Santa HQ that is situated over three floors.
Meet Santa and Mrs Claus in the grotto before finishing off the festive experience around Enniscorthy.
More information: HERE
Address: Castle Hill, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford, Ireland
2. Donegal’s Lapland, Co. Donegal – a live Christmas show
This magical experience is an absolute must for all those who adore all things Christmas.
The experience starts with a live Christmas show featuring music, elves, and a surprise or two. After the show, head over to the toy factory where children can pick their own gifts.
More information: HERE
Address: Lagacurry, Co. Donegal, Ireland
1. The Santa Express, Co. Wicklow – the ultimate Christmas experience
Topping our list of best Christmas experiences in Ireland has to be the wonderful Santa Express.
Enjoy live music, craft stalls, and magical food at the Wicklow Christmas Market. While there, let the Santa Express transport you and your family to the North Pole, where you’ll meet Santa, Mrs Claus, and the elves.
More information: HERE
Address: Leitrim Pl, The Murrough, Corporation Land (1st Division), Wicklow, Ireland
