Here’s what’s happening around the country this weekend

‘Tis the season for giving, and there’s plenty on this weekend to make that happen

It’s definitely frosty out there this weekend! And if you’re finished decorating the tree and looking for something to do, there’s loads on to keep you busy. Plus, charity is in the spirit of the season, which means there are initiatives launching to help those in need. Keep an eye out for drives happening in your area.

Food for thought

In partnership with FoodCloud, Tesco Ireland is calling on its customers to support local community groups. Presenter and mum of two, Laura Woods, has teamed up with Tesco to launch this year’s Christmas Food Appeal. The annual event is running in-store all weekend. Shoppers can pick up additional non-perishables while doing their shop, and drop them off into the appeal trolley at checkout. Now you can get shopping and give back all in one trip.

The Cadbury Secret Santa postal service is back and it’s going on tour! The postal service allows you to secretly send a chocolatey treat to a loved one, for free. Starting on 4 December in Dublin’s Liffey Valley before going nationwide, the chocolate activation is in aid of Barnardos this year. For every Secret Santa package sent at an event, Cadbury will donate €2 to Barnardos.  Pre-book a slot at universe.com/cadburysecretsanta

Festive film

Boxing Day, starring Little Mix’s Leigh-Anne Pinnock, opens in Irish cinemas on 3 December. The film centres around author Melvin, his American fiancé, and their trip to London during the Christmas season. While visiting Melvin’s family, the pair are caught up with family dramas and the return of old flames. Essentially, it’s a feel-good Christmas film for when you’ve already watched enough Love Actually this season.

Donation station

It’s not just food being collected for those in need this weekend. Dublin’s Pantibar are organising a toy collection drive for the 2,617 children in Direct Provision. The bar will be collecting toys on Saturday, 4 December from 4-7pm. Please note, they ask that you mark your gift for the age category it best suits.

 

 

Lunch by the Lee

If you’re in Cork this weekend, check out the Harley StrEAT Food Market. The market, based on Harley Street in the city centre, has just launched its festive menu. Sip mulled wine, or taste some Christmas tacos, and enjoy the hustle and bustle across the river. You’ll also find mince pies with brandy cream, Christmas pudding with custard, French toast roll-ups with cinnamon sugar and whipped cream. Plus, there’s outdoor seating on Harley Street, the perfect viewpoint for an Ardú Street Art Project mural.

Winter Wonderland

For a wintery walkabout this weekend, head to one of the many markets opening their gates. Waterford Winterval is open, full of the usual festive delights from ice skating to delicious market fair. Take to the Greenway for a stroll afterwards. To the east, the Wicklow Christmas Market opens on Saturday 4 December. For an alternative and sustainable outing, The Rediscovery Centre in Dublin is hosting a Christmas Market, opening Friday 3 December. And Glow Cork is back with its iconic ferris wheel and a range of festive huts.

ICYMI: here’s last week’s round-up, as some events are still running.