What’s on next weekend speaks for itself, but there’s plenty of time for festive fun yet
T’was the weekend before Christmas, and all through the country…. there were events to keep you busy and get your present list finished! Whether you fancy a cycle or a shop, here’s what’s on.
Festive fleas
This weekend is the perfect time for the gift scramble. After all, you certainly can’t go next weekend!! If you’re looking for gifts with personality and you’re in the Dublin area, head to the Bernard Shaw. On Sunday, 19 December the Winteryard Flea Market will open from 12pm-5pm, with free entry. You’ll find vintage wares, foodie delights, books, crafts and more. They ask that you don your mask when walking around the venue. In Cork, the Mother Jones flea market will be open Friday-Sunday before closing for two weeks over Christmas. It’s a treasure trove of quirky delights and perfect for a weekend stroll-through. And further north, Belfast’s The Dock Market will be open Saturday 11am-5pm for all your homegrown gifting needs.
Castle Christmas
In Mallow, Co Cork, Christmas at the Blackwater takes place on Saturday. There’ll be live music, markets to peruse, and a visit from the Man in Red himself. Tickets start at €5, and are available for purchase here, with family tickets available and free entry for children under one. The event kicks off at 12pm and the festive fun continues until 5pm.
Music to my reind-ears
It isn’t Christmas without a few carols and some comforting music. Live From Galway takes place on Saturday, 18 December following the knockout success of last year’s event. This year Claddagh School of Music will have their biggest concert ever featuring the singers of Galway City Children’s Choir, Galway City Chamber Choir, Dublin Brass Ensemble and Organist David Grealy. Adult tickets are €20, while child tickets are €5. The event takes place in the iconic Galway Cathedral.
Santa cycle
In Portlaoise, the Barbacks annual Light Up Your Bikes Santa Cycle takes place on Saturday. The event is in aid of three different charities this year, and involves decorating your bike with lights galore and cycling the 14km route with Santa. The cycle kicks off at 5.30pm, outside the main sponsor Joe Mallon Motors. The route is child friendly (10+) and they encourage families to take part. There will be two raffles on the night, too, for a chance to donate and win some fab prizes. Book your spot here.
Driving home for Christmas
If you can’t wait until next week to see Santa, pop the kids in the car and head to a drive-through experience. In Kildare, the Santa’s House Express is open until Thursday, 23rd December at Palmerstown. Take a pit-stop at Elf Town, or drive by Twinkle Avenue and be sure to finish up at the festive funfair. Tickets from €5 – €26 with off-peak and large family rates available. Book here. In Offaly, Daingean GAA are running the magical Drive-in Santa experience on Saturday evening. At the GAA pitch, Santa’s Elves will meet you and take you along the magical walkway to meet Santa. Tickets are free and available here, they ask you book one ticket per family.
We reckon you won’t need a guide for what’s on next weekend, as Christmas Day is finally here. Team ICM wishes you a safe and happy Christmas!
