Seven of the best Christmas activities to do with kids this December
Looking for festive activities to get the kids into the festive spirit? Here are some of the best Christmas events taking place across the country.
‘Tis officially the season, and we know that families across the country will be looking for Christmas activities that will not only delight the kids, but the adults, too.
From spectacular light shows to magical train rides to meet Santa Claus himself, it’s a month truly filled with magic.
Here are our top seven picks.
Wild Lights at Dublin Zoo
November 6 – January 31, Dublin Zoo, more info here
Wild Lights returns to Dublin Zoo, and the theme this year is The Wild Kaleidoscope. Explore 13 vibrant zones celebrating the power of colour in the wild, from elegant flamingos and shimmering peacocks to playful penguins and enchanting red pandas.
Wonderlights at Marlay Park and Malahide Castle & Gardens in Dublin and Fota House in Cork
November 20 – December 31, Dublin and Cork, more info here
Ireland’s largest light show returns to Marlay Park and Malahide Castle & Gardens in Dublin and Fota House in Cork with a brand-new 2025 spectacle: The Magic of Winter. Explore a mesmerising winter wonderland featuring illuminated arctic animals, glowing meadows and an enchanting frozen forest. Highlights include a 30-metre hydro screen projecting a winter ocean scene over the lake and a towering Cathedral Tunnel, which is 5 metres high and 30 metres long.
Santa’s House Express
November 28 – December 23, Palmerstown House Estate, more info here
Santa’s House Express returns to Palmerstown House Estate for 2025, and this year, the family can meet Santa’s elves, sing with the reindeer and enjoy a magical train ride to Santa’s Manor. Meanwhile, there’s also festive treats on hand with Mrs Claus, a personal chat with Santa himself and a cuddly present for every child.
Fairy Tree
10-12 December, The Blue Teapot, Galway
Fairy Tree is a humorous, charming theatre show that incorporates puppetry, original music and song, especially created for children aged six years and over, and is suitable for all audiences. It’s mid-winter, and the land is covered in snow and ice. The fairies are so cold that they are freezing to the trees. Two young girls notice them and ask the community to take the fairies into their houses to warm up. Not everyone is pleased about the idea, but they agree, as long as the fairies do not overstay their welcome. But will the fairies stick to the agreement?
Taylors Santa Experience 2025
Until 24 December, Three Rock Hotel, Dublin
Get ready for an exciting festive spectacular as Santa dashes around the world on a magical adventure to make it back to the North Pole just in time for the biggest holiday event of the year — Santa’s Got Talent! Join Mrs. Claus and the Elves as they perform festive favourites and global hits in a fun-filled show bursting with music, magic, and Christmas cheer. Will Santa make it in time to hit the golden buzzer and kick off the season in style?
Dublin Winter Lights
Select dates throughout December, locations across Dublin
Iconic Dublin buildings, bridges and landmarks will be epically transformed with incredible light installations and projections designed by world-class national and international artists. Experience dazzling displays at Merrion Square Park and the GPO, and enjoy fantastic new light experiences at Dublin Castle, Wolfe Tone Square, along the River Liffey and Meeting House Square.
Lapland at Luggwoods
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Until December 23, Luggwoods
Climb aboard the all-new Luggwoods Express train and meander through the misty mountain trails, which bring you deep into the heart of the forest, where the new Santa Claus Village awaits. Overlooking the twinkling lights of Dublin city, this woodland village is a festive haven where families can share magic, meet Santa and make memories to last a lifetime.
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