8 ways to spend the ‘no man’s land’ between Christmas and New Year
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 Palmerstown House Estate from 27 December. With lit-up woodland creatures, captivating light displays, and free funfair, this walk is a perfect evening event for all the family. Plus, it is pram and wheelchair accessible. 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 Star Wars is an action-packed flick that is bound to spark some nostalgia. Little Women is another much-hyped release, while The Last Right is a new Irish release that 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. Red Riding Hood 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. The Newbridge Silverware Doris Day exhibition is an excellent choice, and history enthusiasts will love the Atlas of the Irish Revolution exhibition in St. Peter’s, Cork.
5. Have an unconventional New Year’s Day with this sunrise food experience
Sick of waking up on New Year’s Day with a sore head? This food experience is the perfect way to ring in the new year. Enjoy the first sunrise of 2020 with fresh bucks fizz and a delicious breakfast buffet, before having a guided tour around the beautiful Hook Peninsula, Wexford.
6. Enjoy some festive shopping with a twist
The stunning medieval town of Kilkenny is offering both tourists and locals alike a unique Christmas experience with Yulefest. The schedule of free and affordable Christmas events includes Irish craft stalls and shops, seasonal dining, Santa’s Grotto, festive lights, and more.
7. 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, Waterford, Mullingar and more, there is likely going to be one near you.
8. This Limerick Christmas festival is perfect for children
Limerick city is hosting a week-long extravaganza of Christmas events that runs until December 31st, so perfect for a post-Christmas day out. With the Toots Christmas Train to take you through the city and enjoy the lights, an ice skating rink, a festive craft fair, and music acts such as Hudson Taylor and Nathan Carter, there is definitely something for everyone to enjoy.
