Plan a day out at one of these heritage sites or festive markets …
The Enchanted Kingdom, Slane Castle, Co Meath
This new festive experience is an immersive walk through a mystical world of fantasy and bioluminescent creatures which ends in a spectacular light show. There are sound installations using 3D sound mapping, ingenious special effects and custom-built structures. The accessible family-friendly experience is also helping to raise funds and awareness for Special Hands, an activity group dedicated to improving the lives of children and young adults with additional needs. Tickets are from €21.50; guests can expect mulled wine, hot chocolate and festive treats to keep the winter chills at bay. www.enchantedkingdom.ie
Dublin Castle
The return of the much loved “Christmas at the Castle” runs until December 18. Last year, over 216,000 enjoyed this free event which forms part of Fáilte Ireland’s Winter in Dublin campaign. This boutique open-air Christmas Market includes evening carol singing, a Neapolitan crib in the Chapel Room and complimentary access to the traditionally decorated State apartments. Visitors are also invited to participate in workshops to create their own Christmas decorations inspired by the deities, putti and stars depicted in the artwork in the Apartments. Participants can then add their personal touch to the Christmas Tree in the Throne Room, on display throughout the Christmas Market. Open daily from midday until 9pm, you’ll also find traditional market stalls selling seasonal crafts and artisanal food producers, but expect long queues for popular fare! www.heritageireland
Christmas at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, Co Down
Running for a month until December 23, visitors can explore the 100 acre gardens adorned with dazzling decorations inspired by the 12 Days of Christmas, and stay on the lookout for the polar bear in the pond and a giant advent calendar. Continue your journey inside the Royal Castle where twinkling lights and Christmas trees fill the grand State Rooms with festive cheer. On select December days, children can meet Santa himself and take home a special bag of reindeer food. If staying overnight, book in at the local boutique hotel, Arthur’s – it’s in the heart of the village where there are plenty of tempting shops for further gift inspiration. www.hrp.org.uk
Farmleigh House, Co Dublin
Christmas at Farmleigh returns for three weekends in the run up to Christmas, from 10am to 5pm. Farmleigh House will be open to the public and dressed in the usual holiday style. The ballroom will have a variety of choirs performing Christmas songs, in addition to storytelling, puppet shows, horse and carriage rides and much more. www.heritageireland.ie
National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin, Co Dublin
Make a beeline for the Sustainable Christmas Craft Market on December 14 to 15 from 10am to 4.30pm. The carefully curated sustainable market will include over 70 stallholders, all within the charming surroundings of these wonderful gardens. The Gardens will also be the setting for many musical events, demonstrations and festive walking tours. Christmas flower arranging demonstrations will be led by Karen Massey, a Master florist and owner of Fleurtatious Florist. For more details visit: www.heritageireland.ie
Ardgillan Castle Christmas Gift Fair, Co Dublin
Ardgillan Castle will host a Christmas Gift Fair on December 10 from 1pm to 5pm with unique fare from local craftspeople including jewellery, artworks and festive inspired wood carvings. Balbriggan Gospel Choir will entertain visitors and there will be an exhibition of local artists’ recent works. There’s currently a major film being shot there, which is set to end just as the fair begins. www.ardgillancastle.ie
Santa’s House Express, Palmerstown House Estate, Co Kildare
Back for its eleventh season, Santa’s House Express runs until December 23 and includes a train ride through the estate’s scenic grounds which leads directly to Santa’s Manor. Upon arrival, Mrs Claus is waiting to share her favourite holiday stories and offer festive treats, ensuring everyone feels the Christmas spirit. The highlight of any visit is, of course, a personal family meeting with Santa Claus himself. This year, Santa’s reading room has been transformed into a haven where each child will receive a cuddly, collectable and sustainable gift. There’s also an Ice Cave and Winter Wonderland Village. Ticket prices remain the same as last year – adults tickets are €22 and children are from €28.50 which includes a gift from Santa and tokens for funfair rides. www.santashouseexpress.ie
Wonderlights’ Alpine Village, Malahide Castle and Gardens, Co Dublin
If visiting Wonderlights light show experience, take in the Alpine Food and Drinks Village with picnic benches and twinkling lights. This offers a festive haven to relax as part of the Wonderlights experience. The Alpine Food and Drinks Village can also to be found at Marlay Park, Dublin and Fota House in Cork. Don’t miss the Winter Warmer Bar serving up luxury hot chocolates, mulled wine, hot apple cider and more. All Wonderlights locations are open to the public until January 4. Entry slots are available every 15 minutes from 5 pm to 8 pm. Tickets start from €23.50 for adults, €21.50 for children and €19.50 for students/OAPs (plus booking fee), with free entry for infants under two years. www.wonderlights.ie
Killakee Tree Farm, Co Dublin
This family-run, sustainable Christmas tree farm, in the foothills of the Dublin mountains, has been welcoming visitors for over a decade. It offers trees and gorgeous homemade wreaths as well as coffee and hot chocolate. Families can also explore the forest, taking in the views of the city and picking the perfect Christmas tree. Each year, Killakee Christmas Tree Farm replants at least one tree for each tree they cut down, meaning the Christmas trees continue to clean the air of carbon, doing their bit for the environment. Bookings can be made at www.christmastreefarm.ie
Beyond the Trees, Avondale, Co Wicklow
Running until February 2, visitors are invited to explore the beauty of Avondale Forest Park after dark with a host of exciting new features. In addition to the LED light displays, highlights include an ice rink by Wicklow on Ice, festive markets and a glimpse into the Victorian Christmas traditions of the Parnell family at Avondale House. In the courtyard, visitors will also find craft and food markets serving mulled wine, crepes and a pop-up bar in the Seed café offering their local beers. Open daily until 8pm, the Visitor Centre includes gift shops with local goods and festive treasures, perfect for Christmas gifting. Book online here: www.beyondthetreesavondale.com