As a parent, finding ways to make Christmas feel truly magical for my little one has always been a top priority, here is a list of Christmas experiences that are free or still have tickets available.

 In Dublin:

1. Dublin’s Christmas Lights & Grafton Street
• Dublin city is beautifully decorated during the festive season, and a walk down Grafton Street with its twinkling lights and festive window displays is an experience in itself. Be sure to stop off in Bewleys for a hot chocolate.
2. The Christmas Experience at Dublin Zoo
• Each year, Dublin Zoo hosts a family-friendly Christmas experience, complete with light displays, festive animals, and plenty of activities for children.
• Tickets range from €15.50 - €31.00 per person.
3. Iveagh Gardens Winter Lights
• A magical winter light installation at Iveagh Gardens is a must-see for anyone visiting Dublin. The illuminated walkways and sculptures create a captivating Christmas atmosphere.
4. The Mansion House Christmas Festival
• Visit Dublin’s historic Mansion House for a festive market, afternoon teas, and seasonal entertainment.
5. Elf Town RDS Dublin (what we have chosen to do this year)
• Elf Town Dublin at the RDS is a 75 minute Christmas experience where children and adults will explore the magical world of Elf Town with the band of wondrous elves, where at the end, you and your family get a private visit with Santa
• Tickets range from €19.95 for an adult and €29.95 per child.
• Also on in Galway.

In the Rest of Ireland:

1. Luggwoods Christmas Experience (Kildare)
• A magical woodland walk with festive lights, Santa’s Grotto, and a Christmas market. It's perfect for families and offers a unique Christmas experience.
• I did this with Ella last year and she loved it! Would defo recommend for kids aged 2+.
• Be warned this is a forest trail that is very uphill at the beginning!
• Tickets range from €17.95 for an adult and €27.95 per child.
2. The Kilkenny Christmas Market
• Known for its festive stalls, local artisan goods, and live entertainment, Kilkenny hosts a wonderful Christmas market in the heart of its medieval city.
3. Christmas at Blarney Castle (Cork)
• Blarney Castle transforms into a winter wonderland, with festive lights, Christmas activities, and a visit to Santa in the castle grounds.
4. Winterfest at Galway's Eyre Square
• Galway's Christmas festival is full of traditional stalls, a Christmas carousel, and live entertainment, offering a great holiday atmosphere.
5. The Waterford Winterval
• Waterford’s Winterval is one of Ireland’s largest Christmas festivals, featuring Christmas markets, a Ferris wheel, ice skating, and more.
6. Fota Island Resort Christmas Experience (Cork)
• This festive experience includes a magical light trail, visits with Santa, and holiday-themed activities for all ages.
• Tickets range from €17.00 for an adult and €27.00 per child.