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Christmas
Irish Independent I 2 December 2016
ALL Wrapped UP
There are many wonderful events happening around Ireland over the festive season – here are some experiences not to be missed SEE ALADDIN
A mystical genie, a flying carpet and an old lamp, a beautiful princess, irresistible baddies and an exotic trip to the Far East. No festive season is complete without a visit to The Helix Panto and this year, TheatreworX Productions return with their comedic adaptation of Aladdin. Join the heroic, but hopelessly romantic, Aladdin and all the gang for the adventure of a lifetime in the Far East in this year’s fun-filled panto, guaranteed to enthral the whole family. Aladdin will be showing until 10th January and tickets start from €19.50. Due to last year’s success, they will have a sensory friendly production of the pantomime on Thursday 8th December at 6pm, which includes no sudden noises or bangs, softer and brighter lighting, and music at a suitable level. For more information, or to book, visit www.thehelix.ie/ event/aladdin
VISIT SANTA’S ENCHANTED CASTLE
Treat the whole family to the ultimate magical adventure this Christmas. Visit Santa and Mrs Claus and Santa’s band of merry little Elves at Enniscorthy Castle, Co Wexford until 23rd December. Families can venture through the Enchanted Castle, exploring the Noisy Elves Workshop and Magical Toy Machine, which has been transported all the way from the North Pole. Stop by Santa’s Post Box to post your letter, sample some yummy treats from Mrs Claus’ Traditional Sweet Shop, which is new this year, and meet the man himself who will have a special gift for those on the ‘Nice List’. To book, visit www. santasenchantedcastle.ie
Enjoy some Christmas cheer with a glass of mulled wine while you listen to the brass band perform seasonal hits
MAGICAL
festive events WORLD OF PURE IMAGINATION
Until 23rd December, Tayto Park in Co Meath will be converted into a winter wonderland and Santa Claus will be there to make sure all children have been on their best behaviour during the year! The Rafter Room at the Lodge will be transformed into the most enchanting grotto ever seen outside of Lapland, with huge toy soldiers and Santa’s own elves leading the way into the grotto. There are lollipops taller than you, chocolate snowmen, polar bears and giant gingerbread men – there really will be magic in the air at Tayto Park this Christmas! For more information on prices and to book, visit www.taytopark.ie
SEASON OF GOODWILL
Give back this festive season by buying your gifts at the Designer Dublin Christmas Market, taking place on 9th and 10th December, at the Bank of Ireland forecourt on College Green in Dublin City. An outing for both kids and parents alike, this Christmas wonderland is the perfect place to buy unique Irish handcrafted gifts, including authentic Irish fashion, jewellery, art and artisan food produce. Aside from some shopping, enjoy some
Christmas cheer with a glass of mulled wine while you listen to the brass band perform seasonal hits. Santa Claus will also be making a guest appearance on Saturday. Entry to the market is free with all the stallholders’ fees going directly to the Society of St Vincent de Paul. For more information, visit the Facebook page www.facebook.com/ DesignerDublinChristmasMarket
BE AN ELF FOR A DAY
Chocolate lovers, behold! Until 23rd December, you can join in with the elves in a fun-filled chocolate-making workshop at The Chocolate Garden of Ireland, Co Carlow. Roll up your sleeves, and make and decorate a chocolate-moulded Christmas figure to take home – and enjoy the tastings in between. To finish off, indulge
in a warm drink of spiced apple. Trainee Elves will also receive a certificate – who knows, you could even be hired by Santa Claus one day! To book, call (059) 648 1999 or visit www. chocolategarden.ie
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
People of all ages will have plenty to look forward to at the Galway Christmas Market, Ireland’s largest and longest-running festive market. Until 22nd December, Eyre Square will be at the heart of festivities and new for 2015 is the Christmas Market hub at the Spanish Arch, just off Quay St. Market goers can browse the wooden chalets brimming with crafts, toys, cosmetics, decorations and jewellery, while foodies can taste a selection of French pastries or pretzels and sample a Stein at the German Bierkeller. There are also carousels and amusements along with live entertainment for all the family to enjoy. For more information, visit www.galwaychristmasmarket.ie