There is no better way to kick-start the festive season than with a family trip to visit Santa!
Whether you are after a day experience or only have time for a quick visit, you are bound to find something that tickles your fancy here:
1. Rathwood Santa Train, Co. Carlow
The Rathwood Santa Adventure is Ireland’s most popular Santa Experience and takes guests on an experience through the Enchanted Forest to visit Santa as he prepares for the most wonderful time of the year.
2. Santa at Bunratty, Co. Clare
Scrooge is back! Listen to the Christmas storyteller as he recalls colourful tales of Christmas long ago. You can experience a magical, festive atmosphere in a unique and traditional village setting.
3. Leahy’s Open Farm, Co. Cork
Begin your journey through the mystical forest where you will find Mrs Claus baking cookies and scones in her little cottage. From there you will step into a magical land of fairies and elves, where you will be granted a special wish from the Christmas Angel and learn some tricks in Elf school.
4. Donegal's Lapland, Co. Donegal
Kids will receive a small gift from Santa, who will call out each child by name and give it to them personally.
5. Christmas at Airfield Dundrum, Dublin
Enjoy a warm elf welcome before stepping into an enchanting festive tepee where kids will have the chance to write and post their letter to Santa Claus. They will also get to meet the man himself for some story-telling and a special gift.
6. Santa Experience at Croke Park, Dublin
A visit to Santa at Croke Park promises to be a memorable one and children will see the team dressing rooms transformed into the elves’ living quarters! There’s also a chance to peek inside the toy workshop and see the famous pitch.
7. Santa at Arnotts, Dublin
For those on a budget, Santa Claus will be taking up residence in Arnotts' magical grotto on Level 2 until Christmas Eve and as always, visits are complimentary.
No need to book.
8. Lisduff Santa Train, Co. Laois
The Santa Train will make its way through the Lisduff Adventure Farm to Santa's extra special Woodland Home where each child will receive a special present.
9. Winter Wonderland, Co. Mayo
Kids will adore a special visit to Santa in his grotto, story-time by the fireside with Mrs Claus, sing-a-longs with the elves and festive face-painting to really get them in the Christmas spirit.
10. Causey Christmas Experience, Co. Meath
Causey Farm comes alive with a festive atmosphere! Here you will get to visit Santa’s house and help Mrs Claus pack his bag for the big journey, slide down into the toy workshop, play with all the toys and visit the man himself.
11. The Santa Express, Co. Waterford
All aboard the Santa Express at Kilmeadan Station and set off on an exciting 20 minute train journey along the banks of the River Suir. When you return you can meet Santa in his railway cottage to have a chat and make your Christmas wish. He may even have a surprise for you!
12. Christmas Island, Hidden Valley Holiday Park, Co. Wicklow
Experience the magic of Christmas this year with thousands of twinkling lights, Santa Claus, Mrs Claus, the Elves, Rudolph, The North Pole Express (Santa’s magical white train), presents, activities, food and much more!
13. The Santa Experience at Dunnes Stores, various locations
Visitors will take a tour of the Elves post Office, Santa’s Stable, the Sleigh Station and of course Santa’s beautiful house.
