Christmas in Ireland is a magical time. Granted, Christmas ANYWHERE is a magical time, but Ireland has their own way of adding to the magic of Christmas. Christmas break will be here before we know it, and parents are looking for things to do with their children for Christmas in Cork! Here is a list of Christmas happenings in Cork this year!
Glow, A Cork Christmas Celebration
29 November – 23 December
http://corkchristmascelebration.ie
Christmas in Cork looks to bring the magic of Christmas to life! It all begins with the magical lighting of the Christmas lights this Sunday, November 17.
If you have kids, you can’t miss Tir Na Nollaig, a mystical fairy village for kids. Grab some food or pick up a gift at the Christmas Market – my favourite part of Christmas in Ireland!
This year there will even be a 30 metre Ferris Wheel and a vintage carousel!! The Christmas Craft Exhibition and Fair is the perfect place to finish off your Christmas shopping. Beautiful handmade gifts, including some by our very own maker Yellow House.
Cork North Pole Experience
http://www.northpolecork.com/the-experience/
1- 22 December
Experience the magic of the North Pole right here in Cork! An interactive theatrical event for the whole family! Make your way to the secret location where you will catch the Elf Express train to the magical Cork North Pole Outpost. There, you will be greeted by Cork elves. Listen in on a bedtime story or pop in to see what tasty treats Mrs. Claus is baking in the Chrismtas kitchen. You can even visit the Elf workshop where you can help the busy Elves prepare for Christmas Eve. And of course, meet Santa himself!
Cork on Ice
I am a Canadian, and so to me, you cannot really have Christmas without going ice skating! Skates are included in the admission price, and there will be periodic visits by Santa!
Panto
I have to confess, I have never, ever heard of this before!! However, after doing a little research, it seems to be a family Christmas event not to be missed.
There is an improvised Panto playing at the Cork Opera House from Friday December 6 through December 21. Nothing is scripted, so expect the unexpected. A grown up twist on classic fairy tales.
http://www.corkoperahouse.ie/events/improvised-panto-1
Cork Opera House are also offering Aladdin, and it is expected to be the most spectacular Christmas panto in the land! Playing from December 12.
Carols by Candlelight
http://www.fotahouse.com/what-s-on/events/drama-theatre/carols-by-candlelight.aspx
Would Christmas really be Christmas without Christmas Music and candlelight? It’s debatable. Carols by Candlelight is on at Fota on Sunday, December 8 from 20:00 = 22:30. The Carrigaline Choral Group will be performing along with Voci Nuove Chamber Choir.
I have to include one event that is happening outside of Cork. The Nutcracker. To me it is not Christmas without seeing The Nutcracker.
This year the Nutcracker will be performed at the Gaiety Theatre in Dublin November 20 – 23.
http://www.gaietytheatre.ie/index.php/whats-on-buy-tickets/calendar/the-nutcracker/432
