1. shopping
2. gifts

CARLOW
is just 1 hour
from Dublin
City via the
M7 & M9
Christmas
in Carlow
Co. Carlow extends a warm welcome to you this Christmas, where a whole
host of activities await the visitor and local alike. Avoid the rush and savour
a relaxing shopping experience in colourful towns, where you are sure to find
that special gift. Shop, stay and avail of excellent value Christmas breaks.
Evening entertainment features party nights and must-see concerts while
special value restaurant menus will satisfy your appetite for festive fare.
Carlow On Ice - Taste of Carlow - Santa’s Giant Post Box
Family Treasure Hunt - Christmas Pantomime
Elves Workshops - Photographic Exhibition
Carol Singing - Christmas Afternoon Tea - Festive Breaks
and lots more...
For further information contact Carlow Tourist Office, College Street, Carlow
T: 059 913 0411 www.carlowtourism.com/christmasincarlow
Events Carlow Town
Saturday 30th November and Sunday 1st December
Taste of Carlow
2
Free
Taste of Carlow returns this year to a brand new indoor venue! Featuring
ceramics and knitwear, jewellery, Christmas cards and decorations, this fair
is guaranteed to appeal to those seeking a special gift or those who just
want to browse and soak in the Christmas atmosphere. On the food front
visitors will enjoy an extensive range of Christmas breads, cakes, puddings,
mince pies, jams, chutneys and hampers. Learn to cook the perfect Christmas
dinner and all the trimmings with demonstrations by Bridgestone Chef of
the Year 2013, Alan Foley together with Keith Kenny, author of Ireland’s
first gluten free and dairy free cook book “Cookability”. Simple tips and
tricks for Christmas home decorating will be available throughout the day.
Rounding off entertainment will be a special pair of reindeers from Rancho
Reilly’s Pet Farm, carol singing, Father Christmas, face painting, balloon
making and lots more.
Perry’s (old Cash and Carry Building), Kennedy Street, Carlow 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Saturday 30th November
Official turning on of Christmas Lights
Free
For a truly festive atmosphere experience the official turning on ceremony
and the brand new stunning lights display for Carlow this Christmas.
Marking the launch of Carlow’s wonderful Christmas festival, Santa and his
sleigh also makes his first official visit to Carlow Town for this event. Enjoy
all your favourite Christmas carols sung by the Carlow Gospel Choir, the
Graiguecullen Men’s Choir and Striking Productions. A magical experience
for all the family.
The Liberty Tree, Potato Market, Carlow Town 5 p.m.
Saturday 30th November – Saturday 21st December
First visit to Santa’s Giant Post Box
Free
Immediately after the switching on of the lights, Santa will make his way
to the new Santa Postbox at Castle Hill (corner of Dublin Street and Tullow
Street). It’s a busy time of year for Santa and his elves, so help them out
by posting your Santa letter early! From December 7th come along each
Saturday at 3 p.m., when Santa himself will carefully collect your letters and
take them to the hard working elves at the North Pole.
tis the Season
Events Carlow Town
Saturday 30th November – Sunday 15th December
Christmas in Carlow Family Treasure Hunt
3
Free
Put your Christmas thinking caps on and take the kids on a unique treasure
trail adventure around Carlow’s busy shopping streets and Crack the
Christmas Code! All completed entry forms will go into a draw with a
top prize of a weekend in Paris for 2 adults and 2 children to the value of
€1,000! Treasure hunt maps and entry forms are available at the starting
point – the Santa Grotto in Fairgreen Shopping Centre and in retailers
throughout the town. Families can complete the treasure hunt anytime from
November 30th - December 15th. This event is sponsored by Tully’s Travel
and the Carlow Nationalist. Completed forms can be posted at Santa’s Giant
Postbox at Castle Hill.
30th November – 1st December, 7th, 14th - 15th and 21st - 22nd December
Elves Workshops
What’s it like to be an elf in Santa’s workshop? For a magical Christmas
experience come along to this hour long workshop, jam packed with songs,
stories, games, make and do and festive fun. Kids will have the chance
to meet some of Santa’s very own elves! The workshops are provided by
Carlow Regional Youth Services in association with Jones Business Systems,
carlowschoolbooks.ie and Lennons@VISUAL.
Deighton Hall, Burrin Street, Carlow 2 p.m. – 3 p.m. and 3.30 – 4.30 p.m.
€3 per child. Two children €5. Booking is advised to avoid disappointment.
Call CRYS on T: 059 913 0476 or email: [email protected]
30th November – 1st December, 5th - 8th, 12th - 15th and 19th - 22nd December
Mini Carnival
Treat the little ones to a magical ride on a wonderful carnival attraction.
Located in the heart of the town centre the Christmas in Carlow mini carnival
will feature a carousel and other carnival attractions that are sure to bring
smiles to little faces!
Tully’s Yard (beside Detail Clothing), Potato Market, Carlow
T: John 087 253 4394 Opening times: Thursday and Friday 4 – 8 p.m., Saturday
and Sunday 12 a.m. – 6 p.m. €2 per ride
Friday 29th November – Sunday 22nd December
Christmas at the Dome
Visit Santa in his magical forest at The Dome Family Entertainment Centre
where Santa will be present daily. Visit includes a picture with Santa, a small
gift and a free game of bowling. While here don’t forget to post your letter
to Santa in the North Pole.
The Dome Family Entertainment Centre, Carlow Business Park, Graiguecullen,
Carlow T: 059 914 1555 www.dome.ie €10 per child
Events Carlow Town
4
Saturday 30th November – Saturday 7th, 14th, 21st and 28th December
Carlow Farmers Market
Carlow Farmers Market is a food-based market that has proven hugely
popular as customers embrace the wide variety of fresh fruit, vegetables,
meats, juices and home baking on offer. Fresh produce direct from farmers
and producers, with hampers of local goods, ready and made to order and
speciality foods available.
Potato Market, Carlow Town every Saturday 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
www.carlowfarmersmarket.com
Sunday 1st December
Messiah with Carlow Choral Society
A classical performance by Carlow Choral Society of Handel’s major
work Messiah accompanied by the 28-piece orchestra of St. Cecilia with
‘
conductor Blanaid
Murphy.
Carlow Cathedral, College Street, Carlow at 8.30 p.m. Tickets €20, €18
concessions from choir members. Bookings M: 085 711 9334
Monday 2nd December – Friday 6th December
Photographic Exhibition
Free
A great opportunity to view the work of Carlow’s greatest amateur
photographers. This exhibition features the 10 shortlisted photographers
from Carlow’s Amateur Photographer of the Year Competition! This year’s
theme is “movement”(action and motion) and entries will feature in
two categories, over 18 and under 18. In association with Carlow County
Development Partnership.
George Bernard Shaw Room, Carlow Library, Tullow Street, Carlow
Mon. Wed. Fri. 9.45 a.m. - 5.30 p.m. Tues. and Thurs. 9.45 a.m. -7.30 p.m.
Thursday 5th December – Saturday 7th December
How the Grinch Stole Christmas
Striking Productions returns to the GB Shaw Theatre this year with a fresh
new adaptation of Dr. Suess’ “How The Grinch Stole Christmas”, where the
Cat in the Hat introduces us to the tiny, near-invisible world of the Whos.
Based on the original poem, cartoons and the movie, this production is a fun
and festive musical treat that the whole family can enjoy. The show features
a huge all singing, all dancing, local cast.
George Bernard Shaw Theatre, Old Dublin Road, Carlow
Thursday 5th and Friday 6th at 7.30 p.m. Saturday 7th 2.30 and 7.30 p.m.
Admission: Adult €15, OAP €12, Child U.16 €10, Family €45
Bookings T: 059 917 2400
www.gbshawtheatre.ie
Events Carlow Town
5
Saturday 7th December – Sunday 22nd December
Christmas Lights Display and Craft Fair
Delta Centre hosts its annual Christmas Craft Fair and Lights display in the
Sensory Gardens opening until 7 p.m. each evening. Enjoy a huge range of
traditional gifts, decorations, folk craft and much more. Light lunches, tea /
coffee and cakes served each day, with full traditional Christmas lunch on
Sunday 8th December (booking essential). A colourful display of outdoor
lights will be on view in the sensory gardens featuring a full size nativity
scene, Santa Grotto and 12 days of Christmas competition.
Delta Sensory Gardens, Strawhall Estate, Carlow 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Bookings T: 059 914 3527 Admission: Craft Fair - FREE
Sensory Gardens – Adults €5, Concessions €4, Children €4 (which includes a
visit to Santa and a photo to take home)
Saturday 7th December – Friday 3rd January
Carlow On Ice
Practice your reverse rotational lifts Torvill and Dean style on Carlow town’s
first town centre ice rink which will be open for skating right throughout
the festive season! Family and friends can enjoy some traditional Christmas
skating fun with the smallest member of the family able to join in, as penguin
skating aids are available for children over 4. For children under 4 there is
a complimentary soft play area. Visitors can also enjoy hot chocolate, tea,
coffee and snacks in the viewing area.
Perry’s (Old Cash and Carry), Kennedy Street, Carlow
Book online at www.carlowonice.com or call M: 085 772 8691
Admission: Adult €10, U12 €8. Discounts also available for groups of more
than 10 adults and children.
7th, 13th, and 21st December
Children’s Christmas Film Club at Carlow Library Service
Free
Come and relax in the children’s section of the library and watch a Christmas
movie on the big screen.
Carlow Central Library, Tullow Street, Carlow
T: 059 917 0094
10.30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Age Group: Suitable for children aged 6 and over
Friday 13th December – Tuesday 24th December
Rotary Remembrance Tree
Members of the public are invited to write ribbons of
remembrance for their loved ones who are deceased or
emigrated., Donations received will be given to the following
charities, Eist, St. Vincent de Paul and Carlow Hospice.
Location: Barrack Street, Carlow
Dashing through
the Snow
Events Carlow Town
6
Friday 6th December – Monday 23rd December
Christmas at Rancho Reilly’s
Christmas at Rancho Reillys has been described, by its visitors, as being the
most magical, fun, homely and authentic Santa visit they’ve experienced!
Enjoy the heart warming and wonderfully festive atmosphere, the smiling
faces on the little ones, the twinkling lights, heart lifting music and the scent
of pine and log burning stoves that fills the air at this time of the year. Your
magical journey begins in the Elves Workshop where the bubbly Elves will
help you make a special decoration for your tree, followed by a trip on board
the Magical Musical Christmas Carriage and a visit to the man himself!
Finish off your trip with some yummy hot chocolate and marshmallows.
Rancho Reilly Pet Farm, Springhill Road, Graiguecullen, Carlow
Admission: €3.50 adult, €15 children over 1, €5 children under 1
M: 087 770 1181 or book online at www.ranchoreilly.com
Sunday 8th December
Free
Spirit of Christmas Carol Concert
Come and enjoy a fabulous line up of Christmas choral music from some of
Graiguecullen’s very talented choirs – everyone welcome.
St. Clare’s Church, Graiguecullen, Carlow
7.30 p.m.
Sunday 8th December
Jingle Bell Jog
Get Christmas 2013 off to a healthy start with this 5km fun run organised
by Carlow Regional Youth Services (CRYS). Dust off your running shoes,
grab your Santa suit and join hundreds of other Santas for some fun and
Christmas banter. Book early and save!
Contact CRYS on T: 059 913 0476 or download the form at www.carlowys.ie
Thursday 12th – Sunday 15th December
Cinders Eile
This year the Carlow Club Players present their take on the world’s favourite
pantomime Cinderella. All the ingredients are there for a spectacular family
extravaganza – jealousy, persecution and deceit. The Fairy godmother (the
good), the stepmother (the bad), and the sisters (the ugly) are all participants
in this hilarious fairytale. Shelve all financial worries, ditch all feelings of
doom and gloom (‘They’re behind you!’), and bring the family.
George Bernard Shaw Theatre, Old Dublin Road, Carlow Thursday 12th and
Friday 13th 8 p.m., Saturday 14th 2.30 & 8 p.m., Sunday 15th 2.30 & 7 p.m.
Admission: €15 adult, €12 children, €50 family of four
Bookings T: 059 917 2400
www.gbshawtheatre.ie
Events Carlow Town
7
Friday 13th December – Friday 20th December
Barrow Valley Painters Christmas Exhibition
An ideal opportunity to purchase a special and unique gift for a loved one
this Christmas. Celebrating their 40th anniversary in 2013, the Barrow
Valley Painters host their annual exhibition of paintings - some members
paint landscapes en plein air while others produce studio based work in oil,
watercolour, acrylic, pastel and mixed media.
The George Bernard Shaw Room, Carlow Central Library, Tullow Street, Carlow
Mon. Wed. Fri. 9.45 a.m. - 5.30 p.m., Tues. Thurs. 9.45 a.m. - 7.30p.m.
Saturday 9.45 a.m. – 1 p.m., closed Sunday
Thursday 19th December
The Muppets Christmas Carol with Access Cinema
Brian Henson directs his late father’s creations in the Charles Dickens classic,
the best known Christmas story of all time. Michael Caine plays the old miser
Scrooge with Kermit as his long-suffering employee Bob Cratchit, Miss Piggy
as Cratchit’s wife, and a host of Muppets (including the Great Gonzo as
Charles Dickens) taking part. This kid-friendly re-telling makes an excellent
trip to the cinema for all the family.
George Bernard Shaw Theatre, Old Dublin Road, Carlow 7 p.m.
Bookings T: 059 917 2400
www.gbshawtheatre.ie
Admission: €7 / €5.50 concessions
Sunday 22nd December
Carlow Cathedral Carol Service
Free
Showcasing the absolute best of what Carlow has to offer, this annual carol
service is a stalwart of Carlow’s Christmas entertainment calendar and is
certainly not be missed.
Cathedral of the Assumption, College Street, Carlow 8.30 p.m.
Donations to SVP (St. Vincent de Paul)
Sunday 29th December
Aspiro - A Boy Was Born
A real post Christmas treat! Come experience the renowned sounds of
Carlow’s Aspiro Choir who will perform with a host of special guests including
Carlow Youth Orchestra, Córmiosa, Maeve Lyons, Gillian Daly, Conor Maguire,
Andreja Malir and Karen Kelly. This special concert supported by The Arts
Council is a celebration of the centenary of the birth of Benjamin Britten
and will feature some of his finest music composed for community choirs
and orchestras of all ages.
Carlow Cathedral, College Street, Carlow 8 p.m. Adult €10, concessions €8,
Family (2+2) €28. Tickets available at Newsworld, Burrin Street, Carlow.
Events Carlow County
8
30th November, 1st, 7th – 8th, 14th – 15th and 21st – 23rd December
Christmas Elf Workshop at the Chocolate Garden of Ireland
This Christmas, you can join Santa’s elves for a chocolate making workshop
at The Chocolate Garden of Ireland. Roll up those sleeves and make and
decorate a chocolate moulded Christmas figure to take home. Hang it on the
tree and keep it for Christmas day! You also get to decorate a chocolate
Santa and enjoy tastings of our delicious chocolate - bliss.
Rath,Tullow, Co. Carlow. Children/mould-makers €12(includes mould
making, Santa head decorating and tastings). Adults €8 (includes spiced
apple, Christmas chocolate bar and chocolate tastings). Pre-book to avoid
disappointment T: 059 648 1999 www.chocolategarden.ie
Friday 6th December
Christmas in Tullow Town
Free
Family Fun Evening to mark the turning on of the Christmas lights
with Santa, face painting, carol singing plus a host of other entertainment
on the evening.
Tullow Town Centre from 3 p.m.
Running daily until 24th December
Rathwood Christmas Santa Train
Ireland’s most popular Santa Experience. Many generations, from young
to old have enjoyed this magical visit to Santa, Mrs. Claus and their elves
over the years. A fun-filled hour of entertainment, storytelling, train
ride, magical forest walk and presents for the children. After your Santa
experience you can spend time in our Christmas shop, enjoy a bite to eat in
the restaurant or get your photo taken on Santa’s Sleigh followed by a ride
on our vintage carousel.
Rath, Tullow, Co. Carlow T: 059 915 6285 www.rathwood.com
Adults €10, children €15
Sunday 8th December
Duckett’s Grove Christmas Craft and Food Fair
On Sunday December 8th the historic surroundings of Duckett’s Grove
House and Estate will be transformed into Carlow’s very own Winter
Wonderland when it hosts its annual Christmas Fair. A magical grotto of
traditional Christmas activities awaits visitors including a large artisan
craft and food market, a Santa’s Grotto with FREE present for every
child, festive musical entertainment, live nativity scene, traditional craft
demonstrations and lots more.
Duckett’s Grove, Kneestown, off R418 Castledermot – Tullow Road. Exit 4
off M9. 12 – 5 p.m. €7 per car T: 059 913 0411 www.carlowtourism.com
Events Carlow County
Sunday 8th December
Christmas at Huntington Castle
9
Free
Christmas food fair featuring artisan food producers, cakes, pies, mulled
wine and hot food on December 8th.Come along and work up an appetite
with a lovely winter walk followed by a delicious lunch and then pick out
your ideal Christmas tree. Sunday 8th - free christmas tree walk with an
expert tree grower at 2 p.m. Experience our old world “letter to Santa” in
the magical castle each weekend in December. Trees on sale every day from
Saturday, 30th November.
Huntington Castle, Clonegal T: 053 937 7160 www.huntingtoncastle.com
Running daily until 24th December
The Arboretum Christmas Village
From decorations, trees, and outdoor lighting to delicious Christmas home
cooking, Breakfast with Santa and Letters to Santa, the Arboretum has
something for all the family. Real life reindeer, a magical carousel and
larger than life animation displays of favourite
Christmas story books
,
all create a magical Christmas experience. Eist spectacular Celebration
of Christmas Event will return to the Arboretum on December 5th and
promises an evening of music, fashion and fun. Tickets €10.
Arboretum Lifestyle and Garden Centre, Leighlinbridge, Co. Carlow
Breakfast with Santa €15, Carousel €2 T: 059 972 1558
Friday 13th – Sunday 15th December
The Altamont Walled Garden Christmas Festival
Celebrate Christmas at Altamont’s fabulous walled gardens where you can
meet Santa and decorate a ginger bread man whilst having a hot chocolate
drink and listening to carol singing. This event is a wonderful opportunity
to catch a glimpse of the great wildlife in Altamont.
Altamont Walled Gardens, Altamont Gardens, Tullow, Co. Carlow €10
Limited places, book to avoid disappointment. Robert M: 087 982 2135
Running until Sunday 15th January
Christmas Tours with Carlow Tours
Friends and family home for the Christmas period or looking to familiarise
yourself with the brilliant attractions of the South-East and Carlow?
Discover hidden gems in the company of experienced tour guide, Bianka
McDonagh. Explore the landscape of this ancient and mystical county
which has a special charm and atmosphere all of its own around Christmas
time. Also available are Christmas market tours from Carlow to Wexford in
the South East.
Tour price for up to 8 people €200. Other tours available on request.
Special Christmas Offer: 20% off all trips from 13th November 2013 – 15th
January 2014 M: 087 650 9880 www.carlowtours.ie
Events Carlow County
10
The town of Bagenalstown is promising a Christmas Festival extravaganza with lots of
free activities for all the family to enjoy and a brand new christmas lighting display.
Sunday 1st December
Christmas in Bagenalstown
Free
Turning on of Christmas lights, Christmas Tree, Music, Santa and Sleigh, Face Painting, Santa
Post Box. Get your free special Santa Stamps at the Bagenalstown Family Resource Craft
Shop – these stamps are magic and will make sure that your letter arrives at the North Pole
in time. Market Square, Bagenalstown 3 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Saturday 7th, 14th and 21st December
ICA Christmas Fair
ICA home baked cakes and Christmas treats.
St Mary’s Church, Bagenalstown 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Saturday 7th and 14th December
Elves and Zumba Workshop
Free
This hour long workshop will be jam packed with festive fun for the children and will give
them a chance to meet some of Santa’s very own elves! 3-4 years (2p.m.), 5-10 years (3p.m.)
11years + (Zumba Workshop 4 p.m.) Bagenalstown Community Centre, Bagenalstown
Sunday 1st – Friday 20th December
Craft Fair
Free
This craft market showcases the very best of local artisan producers and features wooden
dolls houses, dolls beds, pictures and quilting amongst other disciplines. Craft workshops
for all 10am - 12pm each Saturday A great opportunity to purchase that special gift. Market
Square, Bagenalstown Saturday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily Sunday 12 - 4 p.m.
Saturday 20th December
Santa Fun Cycle
Free
Dress up as Santa and cycle your bike. Fun Cycle will travel to all schools and finish at the
Estoria. Start point: Bus Stop, Royal Oak Road, Bagenalstown at 10 a.m.
Saturday 21st December
Afternoon of Entertainment at the Estoria.
Bingo, music, chat, story telling with a special man promising to call in to say hello from
3 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Christmas treats and more
Friday 29th November – Saturday 30th November
11
Free
Christmas Fair at Lisnavagh House
Enjoy the festive atmosphere of Lisnavagh House bursting with stalls
selling a huge range of ideas for Christmas presents. Hot lunches and early
supper, teas and coffees. Donations to Carlow Hospice at the door.
Lisnavagh House, Rathvilly, Co. Carlow Friday 4 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
30th November and 1st, 7th, 8th, 14th,15th, 21st and 22nd December
Afternoon Tea at Rathvinden House, Leighlinbridge
Treat yourself, family and friends to an afternoon of relaxation at
Rathvinden House, a charming period style estate, dating to the early 19th
century, located in Leighlinbridge. Enjoy afternoon tea complete with all its
treats in the sumptuous surroundings of the drawing room, decorated in a
Victorian Christmas theme. Fine bone china and elegant accessories. Home
produce, jams, chutneys, door swags and wreaths also available.
Rathvinden House, Leighlinbridge, Co. Carlow 12 noon – 4.30 p.m.
€24.50 afternoon tea per stand. Cream teas and other goodies also
available. For bookings T: 059 972 1116 www.rathvindenhouse.com
Tuesday 10th – Sunday 22nd December
The Tea Rooms at Duckett’s Grove visits Carlow Town
For 12 days in December the Tea Rooms at Duckett’s Grove will host a
Pop-Up Café in Carlow Town Centre. Fresh home-baked scones, apple tart,
lemon drizzle and coffee cakes are just a few of the treats awaiting you
together with gorgeous organic coffee, a wide selection of teas and our
own hand-blended hot chocolate. Homebaking is our speciality. Ask about
the range of desserts and cakes for your Christmas celebrations.
Madeleine 085 113 6075 www.facebook.com/thetearoomsatduckettsgrove
Christmas Party Night at “The Barn” in Coolanowle Saturday 21st December 8p.m.
4 course dinner €35 Coolanowle House, Ballickmoyler, T: 059 862 5176 www.coolanowle.com
“The 12 Days of Christmas” – from December 12th
Watch out for a host of Christmas in Carlow special offers and discounts from participating
retail and hospitality outlets.
The Carlow for Christmas Programme has been facilitated by The
Carlow Town Team including Carlow Town Council, Carlow County
Development Partnership, Carlow Tourism, Carlow Chamber and
Carlow Regional Youth Services.
This project received grant aid from Carlow County Development
Partnership Ltd. under the Rural Development Programme Ireland
2007 - 2013 which is financed by the Irish Government and by
the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development: Europe
investing in Rural Areas.
Designed in Carlow by Evelyn O’ Brien
Under the Oak Tree Designs
M: 087 398 4488
E: [email protected]
Printed in Carlow by Lightning Print, O’ Brien Road, Carlow. T: 059 914 2212
Entries correct at time of print.