Looking for the best places to visit Santa in Ireland this Christmas? From magical train rides and enchanted forests to Christmas markets, light trails and sensory-friendly grottos, festive events are lighting up every corner of the country.
Whether you're planning your child’s first Santa visit or searching for something new, our county-by-county guide to 80 magical Christmas experiences across Ireland is packed with family-friendly fun, unforgettable memories and seasonal cheer.
For even more festive inspiration, visit YourDaysOut.com – Ireland’s leading platform for discovering and booking things to do.
Antrim
Jack & The Beanstalk
Waterfront Hall | Until 11 January, 2026
Get ready for a giant of a panto as Jack climbs the beanstalk in this festive family adventure. With spectacular sets, laugh-out-loud comedy and plenty of audience participation, it’s the perfect way to enjoy your Christmas celebrations in Belfast.
Armagh
Mission Santa
Armagh Observatory and Planetarium | Selected Dates 29 November – 23 December 2025
It’s a festive Code Red! Join the E.L.F. crew on an intergalactic mission to save Santa in this magical Christmas adventure. Enjoy a dome show, help out in mission control, meet Santa and take home a gift and family photo. Each mission will last between 90-120 minutes and is fun for all of the family.
Carlow
Christmas Wonderland at Delta Sensory Gardens
Delta Sensory Gardens | 13 & 14 December 2025
Delta Sensory Gardens in Carlow hosts a calm and gentle Christmas experience designed for children with special needs, autism and sensory disorders. The multi-sensory unit is transformed with soft lighting and soothing music, creating a relaxed space where families can enjoy an unhurried visit with Santa and his team of elves. Each family has private time with Santa for photos, with no rush or queues.
Admission includes access to the gardens to enjoy the light display and a range of quiet festive activities. Please note that no present is given, and the event is strictly for children with sensory or learning disabilities.
Cavan
Santa Visits KIngscourt
Playcentre, Kingscourt | 6 December 2025
Santa is coming to town on Saturday, 6 December, from 12–3pm! There’s no extra charge to meet him – just book your slot in advance. Standard play admission applies, but Santa visits are free. Be quick, spaces are limited!
Lakeside Christmas Fair
Cavan Adventure Centre | 6 & 7 December 2025
Escape the festive rush and enjoy a relaxing Christmas celebration at Cavan Adventure Centre. Wander through twinkling trees, meet Santa, try archery and bushcraft, browse artisan stalls and warm up with hot drinks by the lake. A magical weekend rooted in nature, community and Christmas cheer.
Clare
Santa Land Christmas Experience
Treacys West County Hotel | 28 November - 22 December 2025
Step into a festive Winter Wonderland at Treacys West County Hotel. Meet cheeky elves, visit Mrs Claus’s kitchen, explore the reindeer stable and enjoy a magical moment with Santa. Includes breakfast, free WiFi and a keepsake photo. Overnight guests will be contacted to schedule their Santa visit.
Christmas at the Farm
Moher Hill Open Farm | 6, 7, 14, 15, 20, 21 December 2025
Bring the magic of Christmas to life at Moher Hill Farm’s Santa Experience. Enjoy festive fun with bouncing castles, mince pies and a visit to Santa’s Grotto, guided by friendly elves. Feed the animals, post your letter at the North Pole Post Office and meet Rudolf before Santa sets off on his big journey.
Christmas Experience at Bunratty
Bunratty Castle | 28 November - 23 December 2025
Bunratty Castle & Folk Park transforms into a festive wonderland this winter, with sparkling lights, puppet shows, festive characters and a special visit to Santa in his grotto. Families can stroll through the Trail of Lights, meet Mrs Claus in the Golden Vale Farmhouse, and hop aboard the Polar Express.
There’s also Breakfast with Santa in the castle’s grand hall, where families can enjoy a festive feast with Santa and his elves. For older guests, the Christmas at the Castle Show offers a candlelit evening of music and a four-course banquet, performed by the renowned Bunratty Castle Singers.
Cork
Peppermint's Party
Cork | 14 December 2025
Join Elf Peppermint for a magical afternoon of Christmas fun in Happy Out play centre in Charleville. Children can help decorate cookies, make reindeer food and check the Naughty or Nice List, all while enjoying full access to soft play.
Cork | Until 28 December 2025
Wonderlights returns to Fota House this winter, transforming the gardens with dazzling displays and a fully accessible trail for all ages. This award-winning experience blends light, colour, music and nature to create an atmospheric evening walk, complete with an Alpine-style food and drinks village. With new themes each year and a magical setting in Cork, it offers a memorable seasonal outing for families, friends and groups.
Corkmas - A Cork Christmas Celebration
Cork | Until 31 December 2025
Cork’s beloved Christmas celebration returns for 2025 with the magical Corkmas Parade, iconic Ferris wheel, festive market, Santa experience and over 20 events across the city. Expect dazzling lights, live entertainment and seasonal fun for all the family.
Christmas at Marina Market
Cork | Until 5 January 2026
The Marina Market transforms into Cork’s ultimate festive destination this winter, filled with Christmas markets, skating, live music and Santa’s magical new experience, The Big Freeze. Enjoy twinkling lights, local food and family fun at Cork’s most atmospheric winter wonderland.
Believe
Model Railway Village, Clonakilty | 28 November - 23 December 2025
Enter a world of festive wonder as the West Cork Model Railway Village transforms into a magical Christmas experience. Join Santa, Mrs Claus and the elves for games, gingerbread decorating and a ride on the Christmas Express through Clonakilty town. A heartwarming family day out filled with lights, laughter and Christmas cheer.
Christmas Town
Mitchelstown | 4 - 7 December 2025
Christmas Town brings Santa’s magical trail to life, where families can explore Santa’s bedroom, bake with Mrs Claus, post their letters to the North Pole and visit the elves in Santa’s workshop. The trail ends with a memorable grotto visit where each child receives a special gift. With twinkling lights, festive fun and surprise moments throughout, it’s a magical Christmas adventure for all ages.
Derry
CRS Christmas Experience
Diamond Centre, Coleraine | 7-22 December 2025
Santa and his festive friends return to the Diamond Centre for the much-loved CRS Christmas experience, where a winter wonderland is filled with joy, laughter and festive fun for families and children under 12. All proceeds support the Community Rescue Service, helping fund vital local lifesaving work.
Donegal
Winter Wonderland
Castle Adventure Open Farm | 29 November - 22 December 2025
Step into a magical Christmas world at Castle Adventure’s Winter Wonderland. Meet the elves, visit Mrs Claus, and journey through a festive storytelling experience that ends with a special visit to Santa’s lodge.
Santa Express at Oakfield Park
Oakfield Park | 28 November - 23 December 2025
The Santa Express returns with even more festive magic this Christmas. Discover new attractions, including Santa’s Map Room, where Atlas the Elf leads an interactive adventure around the world and marvel at the Frost Fountain light show dancing across the lake. With cosy new chalets, craft stations and Ireland’s tallest Christmas tree, this year’s journey is set to be Oakfield Park's most magical yet.
Down
Lapland Express
Downpatrick & County Down Railway | weekends from 29 November - 21 December
Climb aboard the Lapland Express for a festive train journey from Downpatrick to Inch Abbey. Meet Santa, Mrs Claus and the elves during a 45-minute trip filled with songs, games and Christmas treats. Children receive a plush toy gift while families enjoy a cosy, seasonal ride through the winter countryside.
Dublin
Funderland
RDS | 19 December - 11 January 2026
Christmas would not be Christmas without the traditional visit to Funderland in the RDS. They open before Christmas again this year, giving an extra few days of fun and adventure before the rush from St. Stephen's Day into the New Year. Whenever you decide to go, you are guaranteed fun for all the family.
A Christmas to Remember
Newbridge House | December 2025
Newbridge House and Farm transforms into a festive wonderland this winter, offering a warm and personal Christmas experience for families. Join Mrs Claus in the kitchen, meet cheerful elves and enjoy a magical visit with Santa in the heart of the historic house. Every child receives a special gift from Santa’s workshop, with cosy surroundings, twinkling lights and festive cheer creating memories to treasure. Early booking is advised.
Santa at Malahide Castle
Malahide Castle | 28 November - 23 December 2025
Twinkling lights and timeless beauty set the scene for a truly memorable day out this Christmas in Malahide. Begin your journey at the Enchanted Wishing Tree before meeting Santa and Mrs Claus in their cosy grotto. Children will enjoy a warm welcome from Santa’s elves, receive a cuddly gift and festive treat and share special moments in one of Ireland’s most charming castle settings.
Santa Experience @ Croke Park
Croke Park | Selected dates until 22 December 2025
Santa returns to Croke Park as the North Pole GAA team sets up its festive training camp. Explore the Elf Dressing Rooms, try fun games in the Skills Zone and meet Santa and Mrs Claus in his Croke Park cabin. Each child receives a gift and entry to the GAA Museum, complete with festive trails, play areas and interactive games.
Santa's Woodland Experience
Airfield Estate | Until 21 December 2025
Enjoy a relaxed festive experience at Airfield Estate with cookie decorating, crafts and mini fairground fun. Visit Santa’s reindeer, post your letter at the Elves’ Post Office and finish with a personal family visit to Santa, complete with a special gift for every child.
Christmas at Kidspace Rathcoole
Kidspace Rathcoole | December 2025
A magical pre-Christmas treat awaits at Kidspace this December. Mickey and Minnie will visit Rathfarnham on Sunday, 7 December, and Rathcoole on Sunday, 14 December, for two joyful mornings of festive fun. Children can enjoy a pancake breakfast, meet their Disney heroes and play in the soft play area. With music, dancing and plenty of photo opportunities, it’s a perfect way for little ones to celebrate the season. Fancy dress is encouraged.
Santaville
Explorium | Until 23 December 2025
Children can write their letter, ride the magical virtual elevator, play in the elves’ workshop and meet Santa in his hidden cabin. With festive crafts, sweet treats and a chance to spot Santa’s reindeer, it’s a magical adventure from start to finish.
Sustainable Christmas Fair at the Rediscovery Centre
Rediscovery Centre, Ballymun | 6 December 2025 11am - 4pm
Celebrate the season at the Rediscovery Centre’s Sustainable Christmas Fair with eco-friendly gifts, local crafts and festive treats. Browse stalls featuring upcycled fashion, handmade candles, natural skincare and artisan creations, all with sustainability at their heart. Enjoy a warm drink and seasonal food from the Boiler House Café while supporting local makers and social enterprises.
Santa's Grotto
Liffey Valley Shopping Centre | 15 November - 24 December 2025
Santa’s Grotto is now open at Liffey Valley Shopping Centre, offering families the chance to meet Santa in his cosy grotto right up to Christmas Eve. Dedicated Irish Sign Language (ISL) sessions take place every Sunday morning, making the experience more inclusive for all.
Santa's Kingdom
Swords | Until 24 December 2025
Ireland’s newest immersive Christmas experience opens this festive season at Swords Pavilions. Families can explore eight magical worlds across a 90-minute journey filled with performers, interactive sets, music and light shows, before a heart-warming visit with Santa himself. Every child receives a special gift to take home.
Santa's Grotto
EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum | 29, 30 November & 22 December 2025
Children receive a festive passport and boarding pass before making their way through the museum to Santa’s Post Office, a cosy gallery filled with colouring, storytelling and the chance to write and post their Christmas letters. After check-in with one of Santa’s elves, families board Reindeer Airways, an aeroplane-themed space where Santa is waiting for a warm chat, a photo and a small gift to take home.
Elf Town
RDS | Until 24 December 2025
Elf Town Dublin returns with a refreshed 90-minute journey through new sets, characters, and storylines. Families can look forward to meeting Santa, Mrs Claus, Jack Frost and Santa’s real reindeer, with each child receiving a Golden Ticket in the post before their visit.
Santa House Express
Palmerstown | 28 November - 23 December 2025
Santa’s House Express returns for its 12th year with an enchanting festive journey. Families meet the elves, take a magical train ride to Santa’s Manor, enjoy sweet treats with Mrs Claus and meet Santa for a personal chat and gift. There’s also a funfair with ride tokens included and an optional Magic Mail Pack to start the magic at home.
The Stadium Christmas Panto | Cinderella
National Stadium | 10 December 2025 - 5 January 2026
The Stadium Panto returns with Cinderella, starring panto favourites Sammy Sausages and Buffy in a bigger, funnier and more magical show than ever. Expect laughs, songs and sparkle as TWINK appears on the big screen as the Queen of Fairies in this hilarious festive adventure for all the family. I swear on my hair!
Twinkle Town
Smithfield | 28 November - 4 January 2026
TwinkleTown returns to Smithfield Square this winter, lighting up the city with festive cheer. Families can enjoy the spectacular Santo Panto, ride the Magic Present Machine and explore a Christmas wonderland of vintage fairground attractions, ice rink, Ferris wheel and cosy market stalls. With festive food, live entertainment and the Twinkle Tavern on site, it’s a brand new tradition packed with seasonal fun for all ages.
The Moving Crib
Saint Martin Apostolate & Chapel | Until 5 January 2026
Step into the Christmas Spirit! Dublin's beloved Moving Crib returns for its 68th year, bringing the Nativity story to life. Delight in enchanting scenes and cherished memories at 42 Parnell Square West, Dublin 1. As always, it is free entry!
It’s a monument of Dublin’s "rare auld times" but one that carries a message for today, helping to banish the winter blues and warm its visitors with excitement and real Christmas Spirit.
Santa's Enchanted Forest Christmas Experience
Luggwoods | 22 November - 23 December 2025
Celebrate 10 years of Christmas magic as Luggwoods brings the wonder of Lapland to life in its enchanted forest. Enjoy a twinkling forest trail, meet festive characters and hop aboard the new Luggwoods Express Train to Santa Claus Village. Visit Mrs Claus in her cosy cabin before meeting Santa himself for a truly magical family experience.
The Christmas Circus of Wonders and Curiosities
Lucan | Until 4 February 2026
Lucan House becomes a festive stage this winter as Broken Theatre brings The Christmas Circus of Wonders and Curiosities to the historic estate. The show blends aerial acrobatics, contortion, clowning and live music into a lively retelling of Scrooge’s Christmas journey. Families can expect a warm, atmospheric evening in a unique heritage setting, marking the first time a commercial event has been staged on the estate.
Dublin Loves Christmas
RDS | Until 2 December
The RDS becomes a festive wonderland this winter with free daily entry and a full programme of seasonal fun. Families can skate on the full-sized ice rink, enjoy sweeping views from the Observation Wheel and try a mix of gentle and high-flying rides across the grounds. A glittering Spiegeltent adds a packed schedule of live entertainment, with shows and performances running throughout the season. A Christmas market completes the experience with crafts, gifts and plenty of festive food.
Fermanagh
Santa's Corner
Share Discovery Village, Enniskillen | 6, 13, 14, 20, 21 December 2025
Soak up the Christmas atmosphere at Santa’s Corner in Share Discovery Village. Families can enjoy festive fun with letter writing, bouncy castles, face painting, balloon modelling and creative crafts before meeting Santa and choosing a special gift from his workshop. The Village Café will be open for seasonal treats throughout this enchanting grotto experience.
Galway
Santa's Christmas Magic
Brigit's Garden, Rosscahill | 13, 14, 20, 21 December 2025
Enjoy a magical, non-commercial Christmas experience at Brigit’s Garden with Santa and his musical elf, Elfeena. Families can join Mrs Claus for storytelling, follow an elfish treasure hunt through the Celtic Gardens and take part in a fun, interactive show filled with music, laughter and festive magic.
Santa at Loughwell
Loughwell Farm | 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21 December 2025
Experience a joyful festive day at Loughwell Farm Park with a visit to Santa and his cheerful helpers. Each child receives a Golden Ticket to choose a toy in Santa’s Toy Shop, with all indoor and outdoor farm activities included for a full day of Christmas fun, no matter the weather.
Christmas Festival
Slieve Aughty Centre | 6, 7, 14, 15 December 2025
Celebrate the season with a magical family day out at Slieve Aughty Centre. Meet Santa and the mischievous Grinch, enjoy pony rides, festive games, face painting & crafts and wander through the Enchanted Forest to find Christmas fairies. Warm up with treats from the café and visit the Christmas Craft Market for unique handmade gifts.
Kerry
Santa's Winter Wonderland
Crag Cave | 28 November - 23 December 2025
Meet Santa and friends at Crag Cave’s Santa’s Winter Wonderland, where Santa, Rudolph and the elves bring festive cheer to Castleisland. Families are guided through sparkling snow scenes before meeting Santa in his grotto, with each child enjoying an hour of play in the Crazy Cave soft play centre.
Kildare
Pantos at The Moat | Sleeping Beauty
The Moat Theatre | 27 November - 13 December 2025
The Moat Club presents its 43rd annual pantomime with Sleeping Beauty by Eugene Delaney. When a wicked fairy’s spell puts Princess Perfecta into a deep sleep, it’s up to a band of heroes to save the kingdom in a show bursting with music, laughter and panto fun for all the family.
Irish National Stud & Gardens | 29 November - 23 December 2025
A brand new festive adventure arrives in Kildare this winter. Families can explore a magical Christmas Village, collect stamps in their festive passport and meet Santa himself at the North Pole for a special gift. With twinkling trails, Gingerbread photo ops, fairground rides, festive food and a lively family disco, Passport to Christmas is an interactive Christmas experience packed with seasonal fun.
Kilkenny
Jurassic Newpark Christmas Experience
Newpark Hotel | Various from 22 November - 23 December
Meet Santa in his grotto, make your own teddy in Santa’s Workshop and join Mrs Claus for stories by the fire. Enjoy reindeer encounters, gingerbread decorating, festive train rides and the popular Jurassic Bounce in this enchanting family day out filled with twinkling lights and seasonal cheer.
Santa's Magical Village
Discovery Park | 29 November - 23 December
Santa’s Magical Village returns to Castlecomer Discovery Park with a festive experience for all the family. Wander through beautifully decorated spaces, meet Santa and his elves and soak up the Christmas cheer in the enchanting Craft Yard. Enjoy hot chocolate and treats, browse local crafts and extend your day with a stroll through the park’s scenic trails.
Laois
Christmas Market
Portlaoise | 14 December 2025
Roll’N Bowl in Portlaoise is bringing festive cheer with a Christmas Market and craft fair. Set in the car park of the popular family venue, the market will feature a wide range of seasonal goodies and handcrafted gifts, with stalls open from 11am to 4pm.
Christmas Market & Santa’s Grotto
Abbeyleix House & Farm | 30 November 2025
Get into the Christmas spirit at this festive market, filled with handmade crafts, seasonal treats and cheerful decorations. Children can explore the magical Reindeer Trail through the candy-coloured Lollipop Woodland. All proceeds go to charity. Tickets must be booked in advance.
Santa Train Experience
Stradbally | 6, 7, 13 & 14 December 2025
The Santa Train returns to Stradbally Woodland Railway for a festive steam-powered adventure. Families will be greeted by cheerful elves before boarding the magical locomotive for a ride through the winter woods with Mrs Claus. The experience includes festive fun on the platform, a visit to Santa and a special gift for every child. Booking is essential.
Leitrim
Christmas Flower Arrangement Workshop
Fenagh Visitor Centre | 16 December 7:30 - 9:30pm
Create your own masterpiece to wow your family and friends in this festive season. All materials are provided, but spaces are limited, so you must book online in advance.
Limerick
Santa's Magical Cabin
Dublin, Cork, Limerick, Laois, Clare | Until 23 December
Santa and his cheerful elves are back for 2025, spreading festive joy across Limerick, Cork, Dublin, Tallaght, Portlaoise and Ennis. Families can look forward to a magical visit to Santa’s Grotto, where each child’s experience is made truly special. Every family will be greeted by their own Elf Guide before meeting Santa himself. He’ll know special details about each child, present a lovely age-appropriate gift and pose for beautiful professional photos to capture the magic of Christmas.
Longford
Santa Show Live!
Temperance Hall | 6 December 2025
A festive treat for little ones, Santa’s SuperShow is a fun-filled stage spectacle starring Santa Claus, Rudolph, Frosty and the Elves in a mission to save Christmas. Packed with sing-a-long classics and plenty of cheer, the show ends with a meet and greet where families can snap a memorable photo with Santa himself.
Louth
Adventure Lights
Sky Park, Louth | Until 3 January 2026
Adventure Lights returns to Skypark Carlingford, inviting families to explore a glowing trail of displays, installations and twinkling tunnels set against the Cooley Peninsula. The experience blends light, nature and gentle adventure, creating an atmospheric evening walk for all ages.
Visitors can follow the illuminated route, take part in a letter hunt and stop by the Fairy Tree to make a wish. Ireland’s Ancient Maze adds a playful challenge, while Skynet offers the chance to climb and bounce high above the ground. Street food stalls provide hot bites and s'mores, adding to the relaxed festive atmosphere.
Christmas at Bellurgan Park
Bellurgan Park | Until 23 December 2025
Bellurgan Park transforms into a traditional Christmas setting this December, with Santa welcoming families to his festive Georgian lodgings. The house is filled with sparkling lights, wreaths and seasonal decorations, creating a warm and magical atmosphere. The experience includes both indoor and outdoor elements, so visitors are advised to bring suitable footwear for the woodland paths around the estate.
Mayo
Winter Wonderland Westport House
Westport House | Until 23 December 2025
Winter Wonderland returns to Westport Estate this Christmas, bringing festive magic to the historic coach house, Westport House and the surrounding grounds. Families can wander through Tinsel Town to meet Santa and his Elves before taking a ride on the Wonderland Express train through the estate. Inside Westport House, Mrs Claus welcomes visitors for a picture beside the towering Christmas tree. With sparkling lights, gentle surprises and plenty of seasonal charm, it’s a relaxed and memorable outing for families of all ages.
Meath
Santa at The Ark Playcentre, Puddenhill
The Ark Playcentre | 20 & 21 December 2025
Families can choose their preferred date and time and share a few details for Santa before arriving. Adults and children under one go free, while all other children are €26.50. Each booking includes entry to the animal farm, where families can see the crib before moving on to the outdoor play area or the warm indoor play centre, depending on the weather. Food stalls offer hot and cold options along with tea and coffee while families wait for their turn to visit Santa. Inside the grotto, children wander through the elves' workshop, pick up some reindeer food and have a look at the cosy space where the elves sleep before meeting Santa himself.
The Castle Christmas Festival Santa Experience
Castle Cinema | 5-22 December
The Castle Cinema transforms into a magical Christmas hub this December with a festive festival for all ages. Families can meet Santa, pose with Ireland’s largest festive bear, explore a Christmas market and enjoy sweet treats, crafts and photo moments in a wonderfully decorated setting.
Jingle Fest
Emerald Park | Various until 23 December 2025
Christmas with cosy corners, warm food stalls and gentle entertainment for younger children. Visitors can also add a pre-booked visit to Santa. His cabin sits quietly away from the main activity so families can enjoy a calmer moment, meet Santa and collect a small gift before returning to the festival to enjoy the Pow Wow playground and over 10 rides & attractions in the Jolly Junior Zone.
Monaghan
Monaghan Christmas Street Food Festival
Church Square | 6 December 2025
The Monaghan Christmas Street Food Festival returns for one day only, where the town centre will come alive with festive flavours, live music and handmade crafts, offering a delicious way to enjoy the season with friends and family.
Offaly
Birr Castle Christmas
Birr | 29 November - 22 December 2025
All aboard the magical Christmas Express at Birr Castle Demesne for a festive train journey through the grounds. Enjoy crafts, cosy moments with Mrs Claus, a visit to Santa and festive treats for all the family.
Roscommon
Christmas at Strokestown | The Victorian Christmas Experience
Strokestown Park | Various until 22 December 2025
Strokestown Park brings its Palladian mansion to life for a festive experience shaped by the charm of the Victorian era. Families move through decorated rooms filled with gentle storytelling, warm lighting and traditional touches that give the visit a sense of history and occasion.
Santa's Underground Grotto
Arigna Mining Experience | 6, 7, 13, 14, 21 & 22 December 2025
Families follow a guided route deep into the old Arigna mine where the tunnels are transformed into a warm festive grotto filled with lights, elves and gentle storytelling. Children receive a small surprise as they make their way underground before meeting Santa in the cosy chamber at the end of the trail. Above ground, the atmosphere continues with live entertainment, sweet treats from the elves and a small winter landscape to explore. The café serves hot food and festive bakes, while the shop offers Christmas gifts.
Sligo
Santatown
Sligo Folk Park | 6, 7, 13 & 14 December 2025
Enjoy a magical Christmas experience filled with Santa visits, story time with Mrs Claus, letters to the North Pole, face painting, crafts and festive games. Children receive a special present, and families can enjoy plenty of photo moments and seasonal treats.
Tipperary
Christmas at Marlhill Experience
Marlhill | 6, 7, 13, 14, 20 & 21, December 2025
Meet Santa in a relaxed Winter Wonderland at Marlhill Open Farm, where children enjoy a gift from Santa, hot chocolate or slushies, popcorn, face painting and indoor soft play. A warm, festive day out with optional professional photography on-site.
Tyrone
Santa's Magical Experience
Dungannon | 21 November - 21 December 2025
Families are welcomed by the train conductor before boarding a visual simulator ride to the North Pole. The journey continues through themed sets, live performances and snowy forest scenes, ending with a visit to Santa and a browse through a festive Christmas shop.
Waterford
Winter Wonderland
Ardmore Open Farm & Mini Zoo | Various until 23 December 2025
The farm transforms into a festive Winter Wonderland with a magical Santa visit, individual family time in the grotto and access to the Mini Zoo, indoor play centre and outdoor areas. Children can explore the farm walkways lit up for evening visitors and enjoy festive fun in a covered, all-weather setting.
Krinkletown
Coach House Coffee, Kilmacthomas | Various, 28 November - 23 December 2025
KringleTown returns with a reimagined festive experience for 2025, where Santa’s Enchanted Elevator starts a magical journey to the North Pole. Meet Santa and Mrs Claus, explore the North Pole Workshop and pick up your own special gift before enjoying free festive activities and a Christmas market.
Waterford Winterval
Waterford | Various from 21 November until 23 December. Some events run on non-Winterval dates and beyond 23 Dec.
Winterval returns to Waterford with its biggest festive programme yet. Ireland’s oldest city transforms into a Christmas wonderland with magical experiences, family attractions and seasonal surprises. Expect a mix of free and ticketed events running every Thursday to Sunday throughout the festival.
The Santa Express
Waterford Suir Valley Railway | Various from 29 November - 23 December 2025
Hop aboard the Santa Express for a festive train ride beside the River Suir to the Magic Wood, where Mrs Claus and the fairies are preparing for Christmas. Enjoy a private visit with Santa at his railway cottage, meet Dasher the reindeer and relax with festive treats at Kilmeadan Station.
Westmeath
Traditional Santa Visit
Belvedere House & Gardens | Until 21 December 2025
Step into Santa’s Winter Woodland for a charming festive experience at Belvedere House. Children can meet Santa, post their letter, receive a gift and pose for a family photo. Afterwards, enjoy a hot drink and explore the fairy garden, park and play areas.
Santa at Mollies
Mollie Moo's Pet Farm | Weekends in December 2025
Enjoy a festive family day out at Mollie Moo’s with animal feeding, mini golf and a visit to Santa in his cosy grotto. Children can meet Santa, receive a gift, post their letter and have their face painted by one of his elves.
Santa Express
Mullingar | 13 & 14 December 2025
Hop aboard the Santa Express in Mullingar for a festive train ride filled with seasonal cheer. Families will meet Santa, Mrs Claus and the elves, enjoy fun on board and receive a special gift bag for each child. Organised by the 9th Westmeath Milltownpass Scouts, this popular community event is a magical way to celebrate Christmas while supporting a local charity.
Wexford
The Christmas Valley Experience
Secret Valley Wildlife Park | 13, 14, 20 & 21 December 2025
Secret Valley brings two festive experiences to life this season. Breakfast with Santa and the Grinch runs on selected Saturday mornings, offering families a relaxed visit with Santa, Cindy Lou and the Grinch over a cosy breakfast at The Hungry Tortoise Café. Each child receives a selection box and time for photos. Christmas After Dark invites families to explore the zoo at dusk before visiting Elf Village for crafts, letters to Santa, the Grinch’s Lair, reindeer dust making and a magical tractor ride. Children enjoy a hot chocolate and take home another selection box, rounding off a charming winter visit for all ages.
Christmas at Wells House
Wells House | 23 November - 23 December 2025
Hop aboard the Wells Express and journey through the festive woodland before visiting the Elf Village and meeting Santa in the cosy library. Enjoy reindeer food making, karaoke and hot chocolate to end your magical day.
Magical Christmas Experience
Kia Ora Mini Farm | 29 November - 23 December 2025
Families can enjoy a festive day out meeting the animals, exploring the farm and visiting Santa in his cosy home. Musical lights, cheerful elves and plenty of photo spots make this a memorable Christmas experience.
Santa's Enchanted Christmas
National 1798 Centre | Various until 23 December 2025
Families check in at Santa HQ for an enhanced Christmas experience filled with festive scenes, friendly gnomes and seasonal treats. Santa and Mrs Claus are hard at work preparing for Christmas, and the winter wonderland setting adds to the magic of your visit.
Wicklow
Treetop Night Lights
Beyond the Trees, Avondale | 14 November & 23 January 2026
Visit the forest after dark and experience the wonder of Treetop Night Lights at Beyond the Trees Avondale. Wander high among the trees as glowing trails, illuminated woodland creatures, and shimmering light displays transform the forest into a magical winter escape. Open from 4pm to 8pm on selected evenings, this fully accessible adventure offers a peaceful night time stroll for all ages. Enjoy the festive atmosphere, explore the twinkling canopy and round off your visit with a warm drink at the Seed Café.
Christmas with The Smurfs
Beyond the Trees, Avondale | Various dates until 23 December 2025
Families can enjoy the ultimate festive escape at the all-new Smurfs Christmas Adventure at Beyond the Trees Avondale. This fully indoor experience brings the magical world of the Smurfs to life with storytelling, games, music and crafts, all leading to a special visit with Santa in his grotto. Add to the fun with cookie decorating in Mrs Claus’s kitchen and explore the wider Winter Woodland festival, complete with Wicklow on Ice and the enchanting Treetop Night Lights.
Christmas Island
Hidden Valley Resort | 22 November - 22 December 2025
Christmas Island returns with a festive adventure at Hidden Valley Resort, offering families a magical journey from start to finish. Visitors board the North Pole Express train before sailing to Christmas Island to meet Santa’s Elves for activities and entertainment.
Each family then travels by Santa’s House Boat to the grotto for a private visit with Santa, where every child receives a special gift. With day tickets and overnight stays available on select dates, it’s a bright and playful Christmas outing for families of all ages.
Festina Lente | 20 & 21 December 2025
Festina Lente hosts a gentle festive experience this December as Santa and the ponies welcome families to the gardens. Children can enjoy a private visit with Santa, meet the ponies for a photo and take part in simple seasonal activities including crafts, letter writing and the Christmas wishing tree. With free hot chocolate, free parking and parents going free, it’s a warm and relaxed Christmas outing that also supports the Festina Lente Charity.
Discover even more Christmas experiences and Santa visit ideas on YourDaysOut.com – Ireland’s leading platform for discovering and booking things to do. The smartest way to get discovered.
