EVENTS RANGING from light shows and elf hunts to chocolate festivals are planned for the holiday period in Dublin.
The festivities will begin on November 21st with the switching-on ceremony of the street lights.
The Christmas lights will be turned on at Grafton Street (3.30pm), Henry Street (4.15pm) and O’Connell Street (6pm). The day will feature carols, a 3D light projection show on the GPO, circus performances and a visit from Santa.
A Christmas trade show at the Mansion House will feature more than 64 stalls from the city’s top retailers, restaurants, hotels and more. November 29th is “senior citizen shopping day” when elderly visitors to the capital can qualify for discounts at participating shops upon showing their bus pass. The Gresham Hotel will provide afternoon tea at knock-down prices.
A family fun day with an elf hunt and “kids go free” promotions in restaurants throughout the city takes place on December 8th. The day will also see the official opening of the live animal crib at the Mansion House.
Ten days later, the young people in Dublin day will include music events, while the chocolate festival will take place in Temple Bar from December 3rd to December 5th. The Christmas market at the Docklands opens on December 3rd, while Belvedere College will host a Christmas market on December 4th and 5th.
The National Museum will host a talk at Collins Barracks with carol singing and a festive arts and crafts workshop on December 11th.