Last night, Thursday, November 9th, saw Malahide Castle & Gardens illuminated for the return of Wonderlights in a dazzling launch spectacle. Brought to the renowned castle by Follow Fox Events, the launch night event saw a new themed sensory walk journey - ‘The Magic of Winter’ - explored by VIP guests and their family and friends for the first time.
The exclusive launch event for Wonderlights, now in its fourth year, was attended by many of Ireland’s best-known faces who roamed the country’s only multi-sensory, 2km outdoor light trail. Broadcaster Carl Mullen, lifestyle influencer and 4th ARQ founder Rosie Connolly Quinn, podcaster Nathalie Lennon, author Sophie White, fashion guru Dominique Nugent and lifestyle influencer Aoibhe Devlin all attended alongside their families to witness the spellbinding show.
Also in attendance was Mayor Cllr Adrian Henchy and family who enjoyed a night of fairytale delight.
Opening night guests were captivated by the new ‘Magic of Winter’ trail that took them on a festive fairytale journey throughout the Malahide grounds. Created with state-of-the-art technology and curated by the masterminds behind previous themes like ‘The Night Sky’ and ‘Ireland By Night’, the new experience features a world of wonder and celebrates all things winter, when light comes to life. From the Talking Tree to the Magical Flying Fairies and Winter Wildlife - all powered by environmentally friendly fuel alternative HVO (hydrotreated vegetable oil) - there were awe-inspiring displays at every corner to be admired.
For the first time, each child in attendance was gifted an interactive light-up wristband that reacted to each twist and turn of the journey. Included with every children’s ticket throughout this year’s Wonderlights run, the wristbands are the perfect keepsake to remember a one-of-a-kind experience.
Following the enchanting adventure around Malahide Castle and its gardens, visitors were treated to the new Alpine Food & Drinks Village which served up a delicious selection of tasty treats and winter-warming drinks like mulled wine and Belgian hot chocolate.
Wonderlights collaborates closely with Malahide Castle's grounds team to elevate the beauty of the woodland spaces and preserve the parklands' essence, and all lighting fixtures utilize the most energy-efficient bulbs currently on the market.
Wonderlights is now open to the public from November 10th until January 2nd. Entry times are every 15 minutes from 5pm - 8pm. Tickets start from €22 for Adults, from €20.50 for children, from €18.50 students/OAPs + booking fee, with infants under 2 years going free.
Visit www.wonderlights.ie for more information.
