As we approach the second-to-last weekend before the big day, it’s the perfect time to embrace the festive spirit. From magical Santa experiences to calming light displays and fun activities for all ages—and even a unique Taylor Swift twist—we’ve got you covered!

Christmas Wonderland at Delta Sensory Gardens
Delta Sensory Gardens | December 13th, 14th, 15th, 16th, 17th, 18th & 19th

The Delta Sensory Gardens, a celebrated award-winning destination offers 2.5 acres of peace with a network of interconnecting spaces with plants and flowers, limestone sculptures and calming water features, including a remarkable one-ton pink marble piece floating on water.

Part of the Delta Centre, established in 1990 to support adults with disabilities, the gardens were designed as a therapeutic haven and a vital fundraising initiative.

This Christmas, visitors can again enjoy the Christmas Lights Display in the Gardnes with twinkling lights, delicious hot chocolate, festive treats, and unique gifts at the Arts & Crafts area, open from 3:30 PM to 7:00 PM on selected dates. 

Also, this weekend, they host Santa in an enjoyable Sensory Santa Experience from 11 a.m. – 5.30 p.m. This event is exclusively for children and adults with additional needs in a fun, relaxed environment. Booking iin advance required for Santa but no bookings required for the Gardens.

Santa's Christmas Magic
Brigit's Garden, Rosscahill, Galway | 14th, 15th, 21st, 22nd December

Santa and his musical elf, Elfeena, return to Brigit’s Garden for a another magical and heartwarming Christmas experience. Unlike traditional events, this non-commercial Santa visit offers a unique and interactive show packed with fun, music and festive magic for all ages.

This year, the show unveils a new story where children play a vital role in helping Elfeena. The enchanting experience concludes with everyone joining Santa and Elfeena to light the Christmas tree by magic—a moment sure to delight everyone and bring some extra seasonal cheer!

Christmas at Tearaways
Tearaways Pet Farm & Activity Centre, Tipperary | Fri-Sun up to Christmas and then 28-30th December and 2nd-5th January over the holidays

Tearaways Pet Farm & Activity Centre offers a perfect blend of indoor and outdoor activities to keep the whole family entertained, no matter the weather this Christmas. The 6,000-square-foot indoor activity centre features exciting slides, crawling tunnels, ball pits, and a dedicated toddler area. Adults can unwind and enjoy festive treats at the coffee shop while the kids play. A relaxing outing for parents while kids get to burn off some of their extra seasonal energy.

Christmas at Kidspace Rathcoole
Kidspace Rathcoole | Friday 13th, 15:30 - 17:00

Things are starting to get festsive in Rathcoole with a number of popular events throughout December but this Friday there is a unique celebratration for Taylor Swift's birthday with a Taylor themed Dance Party & Pamper Session. This fully supervised drop of session will also include a dance party under the disco lights with a custom playlist of all Taylor's greatest hits. Swifties can look forward to hair styling, mini manicures, glitter tattoos and kid-friendly make-up application (choose any 2 treatments). There will also be a fun & creative Swiftie friendship bracelet making station and a lemonade tea party with birthday cake for the kids to enjoy!

Santatown
Sligo Folk Park | 14th & 15th December

Santa returns to Sligo Folk Park this weekend where you can share your Christmas wishes, and capture the moment with a special photo. Each child will receive a delightful gift from Santa himself while Mrs. Claus will add to the festive cheer with heartwarming stories for the little ones.

You will also explore the enchanting world of the elves, craft magical memories and can post your letter to the North Pole in their special post box.

And, the Millstone Café will have some delicious homemade bites, drinks, and festive treats to complete your festive experience.

First published on Rollercoaster.ie