We'll never understand how he has the time, but Santa will be visiting our lovely Galway this festive season and we've been given a list of the best places to see him. Bring the kids along, he's taking Santa letters, having parties, and has even brought some friends along! Speaking of lists...your name is on his list this year, so that only leaves us with one question, have you been naughty or nice?
Wildlands
Santa is coming to the winter wonderland town of Baile Beag, the imaginative play village at Wildlands. Meet Santa's elves and Mrs. Claus. Post your letter to the North Pole in the custom-made Christmas Post Box, help a sick reindeer in our reindeer hospital, see the Christmas tree lights and enjoy a reading of "The Night Before Christmas" by Mrs. Claus, all before Santa himself lands down the chimney to all the visitors in an Baile Beag with a Ho-Ho-Ho and a bump! Santa will then meet each family individually in his grotto, interacting with every child who has come to visit him, before giving every child a gift from his workshop and an Insta-photo with Mum & Dad (included in price). Not only this, but there’s plenty of other bits and pieces for everyone to do. Please note: this experience is best suited for children aged up to 8 years of age. Older children are of course welcome and they will have age appropriate gifts for older children! To discover all the fun, you can enjoy at the Wildlands Winter Wonderland tap here.
above: photo courtesy of Wildlands
Brigit's Garden
Running from December 9th to the 18th, Santa Claus and his magical Elf will be transforming Brigit's Garden for a very special festive experience. With the highlight of the experience being the professional, intimate show with Santa and his favourite Elf – full of fun, music and Christmas magic, delightful for all ages. Before the show there is lots to enjoy at your own pace – join Mrs Claus for stories in the thatched Roundhouse, follow the clues for the elfish Treasure Hunt around the Celtic Gardens, play games in the Marquee and hang a wish or a memorial card on the special Christmas Wishing Tree. It truly is the most wonderful time of year! Book the day and time slot that best suits you here.
above: photo courtesy of Brigit's Garden
Lough Rea Hotel & Spa
Enjoy a delicious three course festive lunch with a dessert buffet for all the family with a visit from the big man himself! Santa will be stopping by Lough Rea Hotel and Spa in the run up to Christmas with a gift for all the good girls and boys. There will be plenty of magical photo opportunities and time to interact with Santa Claus and Mrs Claus. Please note that parties of fewer than 8 may be seated at large tables with other guests. When you book let them know the names and ages of the children attending so they can inform Santa Claus. To book by contacting the events team at events@loughreahotelandspa.com or call 091 88 00 88, for more information please tap here.
above: photo courtesy of Lough Rea Hotel & Spa
Elf Town Galway
A magical experience for the whole family, Elf Town is transforming the Ballybrit Racecourse into a very festive winter wonderland from November 24th to December 23rd. Elf Town is a Christmas experience set over 3 different buildings with the magical journey itself set over 4 floors, where at the end, you and your family get a private visit with Santa Claus himself. This year, every child will receive an Elf Town branded gift pack with an official invite from Santa to Elf Town addressed to the children, their unique Golden ticket and a map of Elf Town. New to 2023 – Santa will also include a personalised postcard for each child thanking them for coming to Elf Town – something the grown-ups can leave on the tree on Christmas morning. This will come by post from Santa himself before your booking date. All included with your ticket purchase. To book your time slot please tap here.
above: photo courtesy of Elf Town Galway
Galway Christmas Market
Making its return to the City of Tribes this November 10th, the Galway Christmas Market has earned its name as a must visit when in Galway over the winter months. Featuring the highly popular 32m Ferris wheel, Après Ski Bar, Santa’s Express Train, a traditional Carousel and over 50 wooden chalets which line Eyre Square, offering scrumptious seasonal treats and a variety of crafts. Families and friends can enjoy a walk through the enchanted light gardens providing the backdrop for a Christmas Market photo, stop off at Santa’s postbox, interact with local charities and much more. Check it all out here.
above: photo courtesy of Galway Christmas Market
Feature photo courtesy of Elf Town Galway
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