Have a day out at one of these spectacular Irish events between the 25-31 of December
Picture this: it is the week of Christmas, leading up to New Year’s Eve. You are still watching re-runs of Christmas movies on television; too many bottles of Prosecco have been drained; you are developing a mini food baby after snacking on Quality Street and Christmas leftovers.
The ‘no man’s land’ between Christmas and New Year’s Eve is notorious for lazing around, and if you are lucky enough to have the week off, it is easy to feel sluggish. There are plenty of fantastic events happening across Ireland during these dates that are perfect to attend solo, as a couple, or with family. So, fill up your calendar, and make the most of your luxurious Christmas break!
1. A magical winter walk
Wonderlights is a dreamlike winter trail in the beautiful Malahide Castle happening until 2 January. Featuring brand-new stunning displays that will leave you in awe, alongside some beloved classics that have captured hearts before, and all new projections and interactive technologies, this show will impress guests of all ages. Waterford natives can enjoy the Enchanted Garden Winter Light Festival in the beautiful Japanese Gardens, a mythical fairy garden that will enchant both children and adults.
2. A trip to the cinema
A cinema trip is a perfect way to spend an afternoon and enjoy an uninterrupted movie. If you’re making a family trip, the new Wonka is a brilliant origins flick that is bound to spark some nostalgia. Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom is another much-hyped release, while Ferrari, (released on 29 Dec) starring Adam Driver, Penelopé Cruz and Patrick Dempsey is tipped for critical acclaim.
3. A classic pantomime
Nothing feels more festive than a night at the panto. Fun, silly, and guaranteed to get you laughing, it is the perfect family-friendly event to do over Christmas. Cinderella in Dublin and Jack and the Beanstalk in Cork are both great options.
4. Soak up some culture with an exhibition
There are plenty of art exhibitions to enjoy in Ireland over the festive season. Crawford Art Gallery’s winter portrait exhibition, ALL EYES ON US, invites the public to investigate the famously eerie “Mona Lisa effect,” an illusion where the eyes of a portrait seem to follow the viewer. Just like Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, will the eyes of the portraits follow you around the room, to unsettling effect?
5. Embrace the chill and go ice skating
Whether you are a natural athlete or unsteady on your feet, ice skating is a great way to get into the festive spirit. With ice rinks in Dublin, Cork and Waterford, there is likely going to be one near you.
6. Enjoy a festive afternoon tea
As the perfect post-Christmas treat for a loved one (or yourself) Portmarnock Resort & Jameson Golf Links is offering a special Festive Afternoon Tea, available every Thursday to Sunday until 31 December. Located at Dublin’s only coastal resort, let the tension melt away as you relax in the hotel’s spectacular Seaview Lounge, and enjoy dramatic views over the Irish coastline through the panoramic windows.
7. Visit a museum
If you’re a fan of the late Shane MacGowan and The Pogues, you won’t want to miss this. EPIC, the Irish Emigration Museum has unveiled They Gave The Walls a Talking, a meticulously researched and poignant exhibition that has been months in the making. Running until the end of January 2024 and developed in collaboration with Hot Press, this is a special temporary exhibition dedicated to the legacy of Shane MacGowan and The Pogues.
