Press release
Experience the magic of Christmas at Office of Public Works (OPW) heritage sites across the country
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Published on
Last updated on
Get into the festive spirit this Christmas season at OPW locations across the country. Some of the country’s best known heritage sites are celebrating the festive season with a wonderful programme of events to suit all tastes. From Christmas markets, to sustainable fairs, from flower arranging to Christmas decoration workshops there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Dublin Castle will see the return of the much loved “Christmas at the Castle” which runs from 28 November to 18 December. Nestled in the heart of the nation’s capital, the magical Christmas Market will have something for everyone, with a boutique open air Christmas Market, evening carol singing, a Neapolitan crib and complimentary access to the traditionally decorated State apartments among some of the festive offerings. This magical celebration will transform Dublin Castle’s historic grounds into a winter wonderland filled with seasonal delights for all ages.
Set in the historic location of Oldbridge, Co Meath, the ever popular Christmas Market returns the Battle of the Boyne Visitors Centre along the banks of the river Boyne. Visitors can indulge in the wonderful artisan food and festive treats and shop for unique gifts and decorations at the various craft stalls. Enjoy the seasonal music while one wanders through the market to get into the Christmas Spirit. The Christmas market runs from 30 November to 1 December.
Christmas at Farmleigh returns this year for three weekends in the run up to Christmas. Each Saturday and Sunday, from 10.00 to 17.00, visitors can savour the delicious treats on offer, explore the homemade produce and items for sale at the craft stalls, making ideal Christmas gifts. The market will be full of Christmas cheer with live music and festive displays. Farmleigh House will be open to the public and dressed in holiday style. The ballroom will have a variety of choirs performing Christmas songs each weekend. There will be storytelling, puppet shows, horse and carriage rides and much more. Farmleigh at Christmas is a free event but performances will be ticketed on a first come basis.
For those looking for sustainable options, the National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin is hosting a Sustainable Christmas Craft Market on Sat 14 Dec and Sun 15 Dec from 10.00 to 16.30 daily. The carefully curated sustainable Christmas Market will include over 70 stallholders all within the charming surroundings of these wonderful gardens. The Gardens will also be the setting for many musical events, demonstrations and festive walking tours of the Gardens.
Dublin Castle and the National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin are hosting Christmas Decoration workshops and Christmas flower arranging demonstrations in the lead up to Christmas for those who would like to tap into their creative side.
At Dublin Castle, visitors are invited to participate in a family-friendly workshop creating their own Christmas decorations. Take inspiration from the ancient deities, putti and star shaped badges depicted in the artwork in the State Apartments. Participants will have the opportunity to add their personal touch to the Christmas Tree of the Throne Room, which will be on display throughout the Christmas Market.
And finally for the budding florists, Karen Massey, a Master florist and owner of Fleurtatious Florist, will be hosting a special Christmas demonstration at the National Botanic Gardens. Participants will have the chance to learn from one of Ireland's top florists and create stunning holiday arrangements.
Speaking about the festive period, Chairman of the OPW, John Conlon, said:
“The OPW has a treasure trove of beautiful historic sites and locations which make the perfect background for fun, festive family days out over this Christmas period. We have a wonderful programme of activity for the Christmas period and our staff and guides are looking forward to spreading the Christmas cheer."
Discover the magic of Christmas at OPW locations, where historic sites and stunning locations provide the perfect backdrop for the festive celebrations. For more information about our Christmas events, please go to the links below or visit the Heritage Ireland website.
For more information about the events please go to the links below:
10 – 24 November
11:00 - 12:00
28 November – 18 December
12:00 - 21:00
30 November – 1 December
10:00 - 16:00
3 December
19:30 - 22:00
From €33.15
14 – 15 December
10:30 - 16:00
7-8/14-15/21-22 December
10.00 - 17.00
OPW spokespersons are available for interview upon request to discuss the events. Please contact pressoffice@opw.ie for more information and to arrange an interview.
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