6 popular Christmas Garden Light Trails in Northern Ireland
Looking for a fun, family friendly event then look no further🎄🎄
Last updated 8th Nov 2023
With the darker nights coming in and Christmas approaching, these fairy light garden trails make for the all-time greatest event to get you into the holiday spirit. This sensory experience can be enjoyed by all so make sure to bundle up and get your tickets before they sell out.
Here are just a handful of the Christmas light trails happening in Northern Ireland, with some being as close as your backdoor step.
Hillsborough Castle and Gardens at Christmas
Experience the magic of Raymond Briggs', The Snowman, as the magical "Walking with The Snowman" comes to Hillsborough Castle this festive season.
The famous film The Snowman is brought to life in a trail around the stunning gardens – a perfect Christmas treat for all the family. This event will take place from 18th November 2023- 7th January 2024, in line with the gardens opening times.
Across the trail you can discover 12 giant Snowman sculptures to find, each hand painted by a different artist and inspired by the Christmas classic '12 Days of Christmas'.
This is the first time the Snowman Wild in Art trail has come to the island of Ireland.
On select days you can see "The Snowman" on special screenings of the iconic animated film.
Prebook your tickets or become a member for free entry.
Enchanted Winter Garden at Antrim Castle Gardens
Enjoy the wonder of the twinkling lights this year at the Wonderland Wood.
This magical event has everything from dropping in to see Santa, attractions, rides and delicious food all part of the Festive Food Fayre, taking place from the 25th of November- 19th December.
This event also has inclusive evenings dating the 6th and 13th of December with gates open 16:30- 21:30.
Pre book tickets and token bags from £10.
Magical Christmas Experience at The Ark Open Farm
Enjoy the magic of The Ark Open Farm after dark, joining Santa and his elves to enjoy the magical Christmas lights and merry atmosphere.
Step into the Elf Village. Decorate yummy gingerbread, visit the sweet shop, and make some special reindeer food to leave out on Christmas Eve.
Plus their friendly team of elves will help you pick and make your very own cuddly toy to take home.
Quiet Nights (SEN) - A quieter evening experience is also available for families who would enjoy a quieter, less busy environment to meet Santa and his elves on the 6th and 13th December.
Christmas Wonderland at The Jungle, Magherafelt
Christmas Wonderland is just 45 minutes from Belfast and Derry from the 1st – 23rd December.
Explore the colourfully illuminated woodlands, friendly elves for a day of Christmas joy for all the family.
Prepare to be transported through the magical forest, with the company of Buddy the Elf. Buddy is the ultimate storyteller along with the help of his friend elves that will greet you on arrival.
Enjoy some old-fashioned board games, watch some Christmassy movies and get ready to meet the big man.
Lisburn Light Festival
The Lisburn Light Festival Christmas programme is back beginning with the Christmas light switch on, on Thursday 23rd November.
The viral Light Canopy on Bow Street returns for another year!
As well as the popular Castle Gardens Light Trail, beginning Friday 24th November, running from 4pm-8pm until 22nd December.
With live music and Christmas markets there every Thursday, Friday and Saturday evening. It is a sparkling event that is sure to keep all the family entertained.
Twilight Market, Ballynahinch
This one day only event will take place in the Coach House, The Carriage Rooms and Stable Yard filled with magical Christmas lights and live music on the 1st of December from 16:00- 21:00.
All proceeds will go towards Cash For Kids with £3pp entry.
With a collection of artisan food, handmade gifts, mulled wine, and craft stalls from local Northern Irish suppliers, this is the perfect place to pick up your ideal Christmas gifts.
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