Bernice Harrisonon alternatives to movies and the mall
Santa's flyers
Phoenix Park, Dublin
Forget gaudy grottoes and Santas in shopping centres: head over to the Phoenix Park in Dublin to try to spot Dasher, Dancer, Prancer and maybe even Rudolf. An estimated
450 deer roam freely around the park, and for children who are warming up to write to Santa it's not entirely beyond belief that some of these magnificent-looking animals aren't limbering up for some sleigh-pulling duties on the night of December 24th.
The deer can be spotted in the 15 Acres section of the park; some hang around in small groups among the trees, others wander around in the open. Although they've been in sight of people all their lives, they're in no way tame and won't let you come too close.
For next yearThe hottest ticket at this time is the weekend guided deer talks given by the Phoenix Park's resident deer-keeper, Don Doran. He leads groups of up to 60 people to see the deer during December, and Santa even makes an appearance. It's a free event, but places are booked up in early November. One to remember for 2009.
WearWellies or strong shoes and warm clothes.
Getting thereIf you're not driving, the Phoenix Park shuttle bus serves all the main features of the park, operating every half-hour on a circular route starting and finishing at Parkgate Street, close to Heuston Station and the Luas.