From Christmas lights to afternoon tea delights, here’s what’s on this weekend

Fill your diary with festive fun for all this weekend

We’re starting to feel festive, and not just because The Late Late Toy Show is on. It looks set to be a frosty few days this weekend, as the end of November (and therefore Christmas) comes around. If you’re not getting ahead of your gift shopping, keep yourself warm and occupied with these events around the country.

Time for tea

Nothing says winter like a cosy afternoon tea at one of Ireland’s gorgeous hotels. The Imperial ‘Whotel’ in Cork has taken it one step further, amidst the arrival of a particular green guest.  The hotel has been decorated both inside and out in the style of the infamous Dr Seuss story and Jim Carrey film. There’s a gingerbread village in the lobby, and a Who’s Who of Whoville installation on the wall. Not to mention artwork from artist John Bell. They have also launched an incredible, specially created Grinch Afterwhoon Tea at Layfette’s (€39pp). You can also treat yourself to a Grinch themed cocktail including the Whoville-Fizz, Who-Tini, Winter Bramble or Grinch Grimlet Gin.

For a dash of luxury and a little less green, Dromoland Castle in Clare have brought back their festive afternoon tea. Sat in the Earl of Thomond dining room you’ll be spoiled with loose leaf tea, a range of delicious treats, and festive delights. It’s €45pp for festive tea, and €60 for anyone who wants to add a glass of bubbly champagne to their festive feast. See dromoland.ie

Showtime

Former radio presenter Keith Walsh has taken to the stage with his first play, Pure Mental. The show was co-written with Janet Moran and is an exploration of mental health, memory, childhood and more. It’s an all-at-once moving and funny production. The Pure Mental nationwide tour started in Keith’s hometown of  Newbridge at the Riverbank Arts Centre. Last weekend, it opened in Cork’s Everyman Theatre. From there, the tour will make stops at Sligo, Kerry, Athlone, Limerick, Louth, Wicklow, Wexford, Mayo, Dublin, Laois, Clare Tipperary, Cavan, Donegal and Kilkenny. See riverbank.ie for booking and more info.

 

 

 

Lights up

In Kerry, Tramore’s Coastguard Cultural Centre and Café have opened the free ‘Star of the Sea’ Christmas light show. The festive display feature’s Santa’s postbox, fairy lights, and a seaside scene. The centre will be staying open to the later time of 8pm so that more can experience the fun. The café serves a range of delicious treats, and there are Christmas gifts to be found in the gift shop.

In Dublin, take a walk through Blanchardstown’s Millenium Park for their Enchanted Forest. The walk features Celtic light installations as well as real performers! With 20 light and sound installations, this event will operate from dusk until 8pm. Note there is entry only through the car park on Grove Road, as all other gates close at 5pm. It’s your last weekend to be part of the magic, as it only runs until Sunday 28 November.

A chip off the old block

It may not be opening this weekend, but on Tuesday 30 November, ‘The Chipper’ opens in Dublin.  At Six by Nico, the new menu is inspired by Nico’s Scots-Italian family heritage in ode to a long line of chip shop owners. It will run until 6 January and features six delicious courses. There are vegetarian options across the board, with everything harking back to your local chipper. The tasting menu is €45 and matching wines are available for €39. Book online here.