They book out fast, so don't be stalling.
Spooky season has officially given up the ghost... which leaves nearly two whole months of anticipating the most magical time of year - Christmas. As of today, Mariah Carey has officially defrosted in time for the festivities, and if you're looking for some fun experiences to get you in the mood to rock around the Christmas tree, well you've come to the right place.
Surprisingly, or not if you're used to booking these kinds of activities, many Santa and Christmas experiences around the country have already sold out despite us only just entering November, so if you're in dire need of getting your family booked in to see the big man in red, or want to sip some hot chocolate or mulled wine amid some gorgeous winter-y lights, then you're going to want to get booking.
Rathwood
Carlow, more info here
This special Christmas experience is brought to you by Spotlight Productions, the same team behind the Late Late Toy Show. They have conjured up an extraordinary event this year featuring Santa, Mrs. Claus, and all their cheerful elves, in the heart of Rathwood's festive forest.
The Rathwood Christmas experience kicks off on November 25th and runs until Christmas Eve. While there are still plenty of slots, a good amount of dates and times are already sold out.
Luggwoods
Dublin, more info here
They're only after finishing up for Halloween, and now Luggwoods are preparing for their authentic Santa experience in the foothills of the Dublin mountains. The twinkling lights and seasonal magic fills the air as you walk the majestic trail before you and the family get to meet Santa at his Luggwoods Log Cabin.
The Christmas experience at Luggwoods takes place between November 24th and December 23rd.
Santa's Enchanted Christmas
Wexford, more info here
This Enniscorthy Christmas experience is one of the best in Ireland, a purpose-built experience with seasonal scenes that incorporates sound and snow special effects, creative graphics and an illuminated, winter-themed exterior. Mrs Claus and her elves will entertain and transport the kids towards Santa to receive their seasonal gift.
This event is running from November 25th until December 23rd; tickets must be purchased in advance as there is no walk-in availability.
https://twitter.com/HoHoHoWexford/status/1712481039132848257
Elf Town
Galway, more info here
Elf Town is back in Galway for the 2023 festive season, and it is a two hour Christmas experience set over three different buildings with the magical journey itself set over four floors. At the end of it, you and your family will get a private visit with Santa who is apparently the most realistic and authentic Santa you will find.
Tickets are already on sale, and the experience is on between November 24th and December 23rd.
Oakfield Park
Donegal, more info here
Oakfield has transformed once more into a Christmas village, where a Santa train awaits for all the families to board and take you through a true winter wonderland. This hugely popular Christmas experience, one of the best in Ireland, has a ton of new features this year, including the Elf Olympic Games, an Igloo Ice Kingdom, crafting within the Chestnut Cottage, and hot treats within the Holly Hut.
A ton of dates for this Christmas Experience have already sold out, if you can believe it, so don't be stalling on purchasing your tickets.
Causey Farm
Meath, more info here
Following a seriously spooky October running Farmaphobia, Causey Farm has come alive with something a little less scary, celebrating Christmas with all the traditional charm and magic you’d expect, with Santa ready and waiting to meet the kids ahead of the big day in December.
Winter Wonderland Centerparcs
Longford, more info here
Santa's Woodland Village is back at Centerparcs for 2023, which will see the Longford woodland retreat transformed into a festive village with lights, decorations, and snow.
Soak up the Christmas festivities from Monday November 6th until Tuesday January 2nd.
Wonderlights
Dublin, more info here
Wonderlights is a multi-sensory, 2km outdoor trail, that captures the imagination and safely transports ticket holders into a world of wonder. An international team of talented creatives have curated this year’s spectacular new show, with the theme of 'The Magic of Winter.'
Now in its fourth year, guests will be immersed in a world where nature awakens in vibrant hues, and light dances in harmony with the darkness. This dazzling and highly accessible sensory walk promises to captivate all ages, making it the perfect outing for everyone, no matter your age.
Santa's House Express
Kildare, more info here
One of the most beloved Christmas experiences in Ireland is the one at Palmerstown House Estate. Here you will embark on a magical train ride to visit to Santa’s House, creating family memories along the way.
Santa's House Express is running from November 24th until December 23rd.
Christmas Santa Winter Wonderland
Wicklow, more info here
Take a magical journey on a horse carriage through Santa’s Secret Forest Trail and follow the twinkling lights through the forest to see Santa at his Woodland Workshop and receive a special present.
This Santa Experience is based in the Wicklow Hills, and it's running from December 2nd and December 23rd.
Santa's Magical Cabin
Multiple locations, more info here
If you're looking for a personalised Christmas experience for your child, Santa's Magical Cabin could be perfect. Santa Claus will know some special information about your children, give them an age appropriate gift and take some gorgeous professional photos to capture the magic of meeting the big man in red.
There are several Magical Cabins across the country, in Cork, Clare, Dublin, Laois, and Limerick - you can check out all the info here.
Wild Lights
Dublin, more info here
This year's Wild Lights theme is "The Enchanted Zoo" and will feature fairies, mythical creatures, vibrantly coloured animals, a gnome village and even a dreamlike candy land, all lit up as beautiful silk lanterns.
On arrival, visitors will be greeted by the enchanted Wizard and invited to choose their own adventure from a choice of three pathways to explore first. Each pathway offers a magical gateway to showcase the secret life of Dublin Zoo at night.
Header image via Instagram / Centerparcs Ireland & / Santa House Express
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