The top Christmas experiences in Northern Ireland according to NI4Kids
If you’re anything like us, there’s barely a second left to schedule in the weeks leading up to Christmas with family obligations, nativities, and Christmas parties already filling the calendar leaving only the most important events to pencil in. That is why we have created a list of some of the most unique Christmas attractions NI has to offer meaning there won’t be any disappointment come December.
Wildlife Wonderland at Belfast Zoo (7, 14 & 15 Dec)
If you thought that Belfast Zoo was just for the warmer months, think again! There’s a touch of magic in the air as the return of the zoo’s Wildlife Wonderland draws closer. For three days only, the zoo will come alive with festive spirit so don your Christmas jumper and join Mrs Claus and her elves for a series of seasonal workshops, holiday tales, and festive carols. Post your letter to Santa in the wildlife post box and take part in the Big Fat Animal Quiz (7 & 14 December) with over 90 Zooper prizes to win. For those who prefer a calmer environment, Quiet Santa session on December 15 provides a peaceful and sensory-friendly experience.
The Northern Light, Slieve Donard (12 – 19 Dec)
The Northern Light Experience is an enchanting adventure that will take you from the grounds of Slieve Donard, all the way to the North Pole. Your journey begins at The Percy French where you’ll check in for the experience. From there, you can choose to stroll through the festive grounds to the hotel, or hop aboard the Christmas train, arriving in style at the entrance to start your adventure. Once inside, you’ll travel through four themed rooms, each filled with wonder and excitement—venture into an ice cave, soar into the stars, and ultimately arrive at the source of the Northern Light itself.
Santa’s Post Office, Belfast One (18 Nov – 22 Dec)
No booking required for this free holiday experience! Post your letters to the North Pole at Santa’s official Belfast post box located at 2 Royal Avenue. Santa’s elves are on hand to help with arts and crafts activities and make the posting experience truly magical for all families. The Post Office is open every weekend in November and Thursday to Sunday in December until the 22nd.
National Trust
The National Trust is the place to be this Christmas with festive activities taking place across six of its Northern Irish sites. You’ll find a variety of artisanal craft and food Christmas markets at Mount Stewart (30 Nov), Castle Ward (29 Nov – 1 Dec), The Argory (6 – 8 Dec), and Rowallane Garden (14 & 15 Dec). Cuddle up with a Cosy Christmas at Castle Coole where you can hear Christmas stories by the fire, write your letter to Santa, and partake in Christmas crafts and baking. Head to the North Coast for a Giant Festive Adventure at Causeway Christmas (7 & 14 Dec) where there will be face painting by the sea, traditional family games and the opportunity to create your very own decoration. That’s not all, embark on a magical Christmas Trail and learn some new skills with a visit to the North Coast Circus. Don’t forget to visit Mount Stewart for its family-friendly festive winter trail around the lake.
Breakfast with Santa at WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre (1 – 22 Dec)
Join Santa for a delicious breakfast at WWT Castle Espie for all the family with festive-fun and storytelling. Afterwards Santa will lead you to the Aviary where you will get the chance to experience a special hand-feeding session with the ducks and geese. Finish the day off by trying to spot all of Santa’s reindeers along the waymarked Reindeer Trail.
Enchanted Winter Garden, Antrim Castle Gardens (29 Nov – 21 Dec)
It wouldn’t be a list of the top Christmas experiences in Northern Ireland without mentioning Antrim Castle Gardens. Over the years, this spectacular light show has grown to be one of the region’s premier Christmas events with visitors travelling from all over the country to see the Enchanted Winter Garden. Bathed in magical twinkling lights, visit the Wonderland Wood, stop by Santa’s Grotto, and enjoy the various rides and attractions, before rounding off the fun off with something tasty at the Festival Food Fayre. There are inclusive evenings on December 4 and 11 which will have reduced capacity, sound and music levels, sensory and quiet rooms, mobility assistance, and a BSL interpreter alongside Santa to ensure every family gets the opportunity to experience the magic in a comfortable setting.
Christmas at Dundonald International Ice Bowl
There’s no better place to replicate the chill of the North Pole than at Dundonald International Ice Bowl. Join Santa on the ice every Saturday in December for a festive Skate with Santa session where you can glide, swirl, and dance to festive favourites alongside the main man. On weekends throughout December, you can take your Christmas experience to the next level and book a seat at Santa’s table for breakfast followed by a choice of activity to include ice skating, tenpin bowling, or Indiana Land. For one night only, on Friday, December 6, special visitors can experience Supper with Santa, lovingly prepared by Mrs Claus.
