From winter walks to skincare workshops, December is jam-packed with exciting experiences
The Toy Show has aired which means festive season is officially here. There is no better time to get out and about than in December. There are plenty of events happening across the country to soak up the Christmas cheer. Below, we have rounded up some of our top picks that we think you’re going to love – with some non-festive ones included in the mix too.
Wonderlights
Returning for the third year in Malahide, Dublin is Wonderlights, a 2km sensory trail that all the family can enjoy. Open from 5 to 8pm until 3 January, it is an ideal walk to complete before the Christmas festivities begin. Or, if you want to kick off the New Year with an evening stroll, the new ‘The Night Sky’ trail is a great one to experience. Tickets are €20 for adults and €16.50 for children, with infants under 2 going for free. Follow @wonderlightsire on Instagram or @wonderlightsireland on Facebook for more information.
The Kerlin Gallery
On Thursday 8 December enjoy a special evening called ‘Reflections’ with readings and reminiscences about Stephen McKenna by artists and curators he has influenced, including painter Merlin James. There will also be mulled wine and mince pies to enjoy on the night. More announcement to follow on kerlingallery.com
Toy Show The Musical
Derived from everyone’s favourite show, this musical follows twelve-year old Nell as she and the local kids in her town prepare for The Late Late Toy Show. Starring Ceola Dunne, Clare Keely and Doireann McNally, the show will take place in the Convention Centre along the quays of Dublin City, opening on 10 December. Tickets are priced from €25 and can be purchased on rte.ie/toyshowthemusical.
Retinoid masterclass
Caroline Hirons, founder of Skin Rocks is hosting the Space NK masterclass in Dublin on 2 December. This masterclass marks the launch of the new series of the brand, Retinoid. It will take you through what retinoids do, and how to incoropate the right ones into your routine. There will be two times, 5:30pm to 6:30pm and 7:15pm to 8:30pm. Tickets are £20 and can be booked on carolinehirons.com.
The Long Christmas at The Abbey
For a couples Christmas getaway, the Westbury have a festive package worth checking out. It includes an overnight stay in the hotel with a pre-or post- show theatre dinner in the lovely WILDE restaurant. Choose from two evening show times at The Abbey Theatre to see The Long Christmas and enjoy a complimentary breakfast the next morning. The package is from €540 from 13 December to 31 December (Excluding 24 to 28 December and Fridays and Saturdays). For more information, visit doylecollection.com.
Drive-in cinema
A Christmas film from the comfort of your car? Count us in. On Saturday 17 December and Sunday 18 December, drive-in movies are open at Ferry Terminal, Dun Laoghaire, Dublin. Pack your cosiest blankets, pop some popcorn and head down for a Christmas night of memories. Saturday’s line-up starts with The Grinch at 4pm, followed by Scrooged at 7pm. Sunday, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone lands onscreen at 4pm with It’s a Wonderful Life playing at 7pm. This festive activity is great for the whole family to enjoy and is budget-friendly at only €15 per vehicle. Purchase tickets on eventbrite.ie.
