Your Go-To Guide For Festive Date Nights

It’s official, the Christmas spirit is here. The day is set for the tree to go up, I’m constantly thinking about that divine Christmas dinner and even a present or two has been bought. Amazing. So it’s only right that it’s time for festive events too. Here’s our top picks for Christmassy dates around Ireland.

Wild Lights at Dublin Zoo

If you haven’t yet been to Wild Lights at Dublin Zoo, you’re missing out. The night time experience is back and dare I say it, better than ever before. This year’s theme is Stories, Myths and Legends, so what are you waiting for? Grab your bobbly hat and scarf and enjoy. You can pick up tickets here.

Ice Skating

I’d like to think that ice skating for a date would almost be like a scene out of a Christmas movie. Full of romance and maybe even in slow motion. But if it’s not going to be all cutesy and romantic, it’s definitely going to be great craic. There’s ice skating rinks nearly all around Ireland, so you shouldn’t be too far from one. Take your pick from Blanchardstown, Cork, Mullingar, Waterford and plenty more.

Glow Cork

Glow, the Christmas celebration in Cork, is basically Cork’s own winter wonderland. From the Christmas markets and a giant ferris wheel, to carol singers and all round festive cheer, it’s the perfect spot to get into the Christmas spirit with your other half or a group of friends. *books train to Cork immediately*

Photo by: Donncha O Caoimh

Hot Chocolatey Goodness 

Between now and Christmas, there’s going to be a whole lot of Prosecco and pints. So it’ll even feel like treat to go somewhere and indulge in something that’s not alcoholic, trust me. There’s plenty of places around Ireland where you can get a dreamy hot chocolate (Butlers, we’re looking at you) but Three Twenty Ice Cream Lab in Dublin 2 has gone straight to the top of my list. Their signature hot chocolate is topped off with a layer of toasted marshmallow fluff, honestly, it sounds truly divine.
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Galway Christmas Markets

The Galway Christmas markets are just magical. There’s no other word for it. This is the tenth year of the markets, so you can bet that Eyre Square is going to be absolutely hopping. There’s almost too much to fit into one day, from the 32 metre high big wheel and traditional Carousel along with the Après Ski Bar, live music performers, storytelling, and much more. Check out more info here.

Festive Film Screenings

A golden oldie at Christmas time, it’s an essential part of Christmas. I can’t count how many times I’ve watched Elf or Love Actually, but there’s something about watching your favourite Christmas movies on the big screen. Take your pick from Elf, Home Alone, Die Hard (if you’re of the belief that Die Hard is a Christmas movie that is, you do you) all around cinemas in Ireland.

Waterford Winterval

Waterford transforms for Christmas, and each year is even more jam-packed than the last. The winter wonderland has it all, like the outdoor and craft market, the carousel and the big wheel, the ice rink and double decker horse-drawn sleigh, as well as plenty more. Check out all the Winterval events right here.

Tayto Park

Let’s get one thing straight, Tayto Park isn’t just for kids. It’s the perfect spot for a fun day out, complete with rollercoasters, zip lines and fab food. And now, the park is all decorated for Christmas (as they await Santa’s visit) making it the ideal festive day out, whether you’re with your other half or the whole family.

Taste of Dublin: Festive Edition

For me, if there’s one thing that Christmas revolves around, it’s the food. And if you’ve been to Taste during the summer, you’ll easily see why I’m so exited about this. Taste of Dublin Festive Edition is coming to the RDS from November 28th to December 1st and is set to be absolutely jam-packed. There’s all there is to love about Christmas, from festive baking and chocolate workshops, to wine & spirits classes and festive tablescaping. Grab your tickets right here.

I don’t know about you, but now all I’m thinking of is ways to fit ALL of this in by Christmas Eve. I’m feeling optimistic, really.

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