CO WICKLOW CHRISTMAS WHAT’S ON
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 4
CHRISTMAS STORYTIME
Arklow Librarywill host Christmas Storytime for babies and toddlers from 10 a.m. There will also be festive arts and crafts. Speak with a member of library staff for further information.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5
FASHION SHOW
Get some wardrobe inspiration as we dive into the festive season at the Colaiste Chraobh Abhann Parents Council fashion show, which takes place at 7.30 p.m. in the school. Tickets cost €15 or €5 for students.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6
MARKET AND EXHIBITION
The Schoolhouse for Art in Enniskerry kicks of a weekend of festive fun, as its Christmas market opens from 4.30 p.m. to 8 p.m. An exhibition will launch at 7 p.m. featuring the work of over 30 artists. The market will give people a chance to shop local, support local craftspeople and buy handcrafted gifts this Christmas.
LIGHT UP AVOCA
Santa will arrive in Avoca village at 6 p.m. to switch on the Christmas lights. Everyone is urged to wear their best Christmas jumper or festive attire to ensure the man in red feels at home.
BALLYKNOCKAN LIGHTS
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas and Ballyknockan will be adding its own sprinkling of festive fun as the Christmas tree lights are switched on at 7 p.m. Come along with family and friends to take part in the big event at Cullens.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7
CHRISTMAS FAIR
Carysfort NS, Arklow will host its annual Christmas Craft Fair from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This year’s event will host 30 stalls. Santa will arrive at his grotto at 12.30 p.m.
BOATYARD CHRISTMAS MARKET
Head on down to the Boatyard Market in Greystones for some festive gift inspiration from noon to 5 p.m. The market is in support of Greystones Tidy Towns’ new sensory garden.
MARKET AND EXHIBITION
The Schoolhouse for Art in Enniskerry hosts a Christmas market and exhibition from noon to 5 p.m., featuring the work of over 30 artists and giving people a chance to shop local, support local craftspeople and buy handcrafted gifts this Christmas.
BUSKING COMPETITION
Musicians, comedians and dancers have the chance to show off their skills at the Arklow Christmas Festival’s busking competition from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Register from 1.30 p.m. at the Band Stand, Main Street.
DUNLAVIN LIGHTS UP
Festive jumpers at the ready as Christmas comes to Dunlavin! Festive spirit will be sweeping through the streets as the Christmas lights are switched on at 6 p.m. and young and old are invited to break out the fesive jumpers and join in the fun.
VALLEYMOUNT LIGHTS
Valleymount residents will be walking in a winter wonderland as the lights on the Christmas tree get lit up at 7 p.m. Everyone is welcome to come along (in their best festive attire, if they feel so inclined) for the big switch-on outside the hall.
VOICES OF BRAY
Voices of Bray Community Choir will perform their Christmas concert at St Fergal’s church in Bray at 7.30 p.m. The programme will include traditional Christmas carols, as well as some favourites from the choir’s repertoire of songs from well-known shows and musicals. The proceeds from this concert will go to St Clare’s conference of St Vincent de Paul. Tickets cost €10 and are available from choir members or the St Fergal’s parish office.
CHRISTMAS CONCERT
Wicklow Male Voice Choir will present their ever-popular Christmas concert in St Patrick’s Church, Wicklow Town, at 8 p.m. As always, the choir is under the baton of musical director Tony Norton, who has chosen an enjoyable programme for the evening. This year’s special guests will be Victoria Massey (mezzo soprano), local lady Lorna Breen (soprano) and David Wray as accompanist. Tickets cost €15 and are available from any choir member or from Earls newsagents.
CELTIC BROTHERS CONCERT
Join the Celtic Brothers, featuring some of The Willoughbys, at 8 p.m. in Tynock Church for a concert in aid of a multi-sensory room for Baltinglass Hospital. Tickets cost €20 and are available from 087 2668300 or multisensoryconcert@gmail.com
A MERRY LITTLE CHRISTMAS CONCERT
Join Chris Currid and guests for a ‘Merry Little Christmas Concert’ in the Asgard Theatre, Arklow, from 8.15 p.m. Chris will be accompanied by Conor McCarthy and joined by special guest Aly Coyne and the Currid School of Performing Arts. The show will feature Christmas classics, hits from the musicals, Disney favourites and much more. Tickets cost €15 and are available from gr8events.ie
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8 CHRISTMAS STABLES
Children will love the chance to meet some of Santa’s animals, including Santa’s deer, pygmy goats, minature donkeys, rabbits and guinea pigs, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Powerscourt Garden Pavilion. A visit to the stables is free of charge.
CHRISTMAS FAIR
The popular Christmas fair organised by the Aughrim Business Association will take place in Lawless’ Hotel from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Many small local businesses present their crafts and services and attract a lot of customers.
FESTIVE FAIR
Donard is offering a Christmas fair with a difference as it has local artists, designers and craftspeople selling their wares and not one, but two locations from 11 a.m. Donard Community Hall and Moate Farm will be packed to the rafters with all you need to get throught festive season. Santa and Mrs Claus will be there to meet the children and the community cafe will be open especially for the fair.
COMMEMORATION
The annual Liam Mellows Commemoration takes place in Castletown, commencing with Mass at 11 a.m. in St Patrick’s Church. This will be followed by a Colour Party leading on to the adjoining Cemetery. Prayers will be said by the parish priest while the oration will be delivered by Senator Mark Daly. There will be light refreshments afterwards in the Golden Anchor.
TINAHELY FESTIVE FAIR
Enjoy the sights and smells of Christmas at the marquee at O’Connor’s Bar in Tinahely as a festive fair takes place from noon to 4.30 p.m. Browse the stalls for that perfect Christmas gift, the best of local crafts or a delicious homemade treat.
BOATYARD CHRISTMAS MARKET
Head on down to the Boatyard Market in Greystones for some festive gift inspiration from noon to 5 p.m. Santa will visit to meet some of the local children between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. This year’s market will be in support of Greystones Tidy Towns’ new sensory garden.
MARKET AND EXHIBITION
The Schoolhouse for Art in Enniskerry hosts a Christmas market and exhibition from noon to 5 p.m., featuring the work of over 30 artists and giving people a chance to shop local, support local craftspeople and buy handcrafted gifts this Christmas.
FESTIVE FUN
Children can make their own Christmas wish jar, write their Christmas wish and add a bit of magic before taking it home to put under the Christmas tree on the mall at the Bridgewater Shopping Centre from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAST
Junior and Youth Musicals present three performances of their Christmas show ‘The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat’ in the Mermaid Arts Centre, at 1.30 p.m., 4.30 p.m. and 7.30 p.m. The show features excerpts from the musicals ‘Grease’ and ‘Joseph’, hip hop routines, choral singing by the Junior Musicals Theatre School Choir and the tots bring home the real meaning of Christmas with their Nativity play. Tickets cost €18 or €65 for a family ticket (two adults and two under-12s) and are available from the Mermaid.
CHRISTMAS FAIR
Lacken Community Centre will be taking its inspiration from the North Pole as it hosts a Christmas Fair from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Santa himself will be arriving at 3 p.m. and the villages Christmas lights will be turned on after the fair.
SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARVES
Bray Musical Society present the panto ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarves’ at St Patrick’s National School at 2.30 p.m. Tickets cost €12 for adults or €7 for children (group and family rates available) and are available from 085 7801360, braymusicalsociety@gmail.com or eventbrite.ie.
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS
Hundreds are expected to flock to Tinahely for the switching on of the Christmas lights at 4.30 p.m. A certain someone will be arriving from the North Pole especially for the event so everyone is urged to wear their best festive attire to give them a very warm welcome to Tinahely.
FAIRYLIGHT WALK
Scoil Chaoimhin Naofa in Glendalough is hosting a very special family fairylight walk from 4.30 p.m. to 6.30 p.m. in aid of the school’s literacy resources. Participants are urged to wear their fairy lights as they walk by the lakes and the walk will set off from the river bridge opposite the Glendalough Visitor Centre. Tickets cost €5 per person or €15 per family and are available from eventbrite.ie or the school office.
GRANGECON CHRISTMAS LIGHTS
Deck the village with boughs of holly as the Grangecon Christmas tree lights get switched on. A street event will kick off at 4 p.m., followed by the main event at 5 p.m.
SANTA EXPERIENCE
Carnew Playground Committee is bringing Santa to town from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. in Coláiste Bhríde, Carnew. Children can post their letter to Santa, get a Santa certificate, have their photograph taken, receive a gift from Santa and get their face painted. The cost is €5 per child.
TREE OF LIFE
West Wicklow Day-Care Committee will be lighting up the Christmas Tree it has erected in the grounds of Baltinglass Hospital at 5 p.m. The tree is in celebration of the lives of family and friends who are no longer here. A carol service will also take place.
VOICES OF BRAY
Voices of Bray Community Choir will perform their Christmas concert at St Fergal’s church in Bray at 7.30 p.m. The programme will include traditional Christmas carols, as well as some favourites from the choir’s repertoire of songs from well-known shows and musicals. The proceeds from this concert will go to St Clar’s conference of St Vincent de Paul. Tickets cost €10 and are available from choir members or the St Fergal’s parish office.
CHRISTMAS CONCERT
Wicklow Male Voice Choir will present their ever-popular Christmas concert in St Patrick’s Church, Wicklow town, at 8 p.m. As always, the choir is under the baton of musical director Tony Norton, who, has chosen an enjoyable programme for the evening. This year’s special guests will be Victoria Massey (mezzo soprano), local lady Lorna Breen (soprano) and David Wray as accompanist. Tickets cost €15 and are available from any choir member or from Earls newsagents.
CELTIC BROTHERS CONCERT
Join the Celtic Brothers, featuring some of The Willoughbys, at 8 p.m. in Tynock Church for a concert in aid of a multi-sensory room for Baltinglass Hospital. Tickets cost €20 and are available from 087 2668300 or multisensoryconcert@gmail.com
A MERRY LITTLE CHRISTMAS CONCERT
Join Chris Currid and guests for a ‘Merry Little Christmas Concert’ in the Asgard Theatre, Arklow, from 8.15 p.m. Chris will be accompanied by Conor McCarthy and joined by special guest Aly Coyne and the Currid School of Performing Arts. The show will feature Christmas classics, hits from the musicals, Disney favourites and much more. Tickets cost €15 and are available from gr8events.ie
MONDAY, DECEMBER 9 CHRISTMAS STABLES
Children will love the chance to meet some of Santa’s animals, including Santa’s deer, pygmy goats, miniature donkeys, rabbits and guinea pigs, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Powerscourt Garden Pavilion. A visit to the stables is free of charge.
THE SHINY SHRIMPS
The Shiny Shrimps, which will be screened at the Mermaid Arts Centre at 8 p.m., tells the story of Matthias Le Goff, an Olympic champion at the end
of his career, who makes a homophobic statement on TV. His punishment is to coach the Shiny Shrimps, a flamboyant and amateur gay water-polo team who have only one thing in mind: to qualify for the Gay Games in Croatia. Tickets cost €8.50/€7 and are available from the Mermaid.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10 CHRISTMAS STABLES
Children will love the chance to meet some of Santa’s animals, including Santa’s deer, pygmy goats, miniature donkeys, rabbits and guinea pigs, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Powerscourt Garden Pavilion. A visit to the stables is free of charge.
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11 CHRISTMAS STABLES
Children will love the chance to meet some of Santa’s animals, including Santa’s deer, pygmy goats, miniature donkeys, rabbits and guinea pigs, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Powerscourt Garden Pavilion. A visit to the stables is free of charge.
CHRISTMAS STORYTIME
Arklow Librarywill host Christmas Storytime for babies and toddlers from 10 a.m. There will also be festive arts and crafts. Speak with a member of library staff for further information.
CHRISTMAS LUNCH
Tinahely Women’s Choir is inviting ladies from the local community and surrounding areas to join them from 12.30 p.m. to 3 p.m. in the Courthouse Arts Centre for their annual Christmas lunch. In addition
to a three-course meal, guests will be treated to a selection of songs and carols from the choir. The cost is €20 and places must be booked in advance by calling 087 8267128.
THE SIX MARYS
The Six Marys returns to the Whale Theatre at 8 p.m. after six sell-out shows earlier this year. This one-woman show presented by Jean Farrell is a comical yet poignant look at life, from childhood in the 1950s to the present day. It draws very much on the
influence of religion as taught by the nuns – preparing young Irish Catholic schoolgirls to imitate the virtues of the Virgin Mary. Tickets cost €18/€15 and are available from the Whale.
COLÁISTE RÁITHÍN MUSICAL
Coláiste Ráithín students will deliver a spectacle of music, dance and drama, as they bring their transition year musical to the stage in the Mermaid Arts Centre at 8 p.m. The students will continue to build on the school’s longstanding culture of
bringing excellent drama to the stage. Tickets cost €15/€10 and are available from the Mermaid. THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12
CHRISTMAS STABLES
Children will love the chance to meet some of Santa’s animals, including Santa’s deer, pygmy goats, miniature donkeys, rabbits and guinea pigs, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Powerscourt Garden Pavilion. A visit to the stables is free of charge.
LOST IN TRANSIT
Making Waves Youth Theatre from Greystones presents Ciaran Coogan’s play ‘Lost in Transit’ at the Whale Theatre at 6.30 p.m. and again at 8.30 p.m. When a group of bored teenagers are stuck on a delayed train, a battered old suitcase takes them to unexpected places they never expected to go. Tickets cost €10 and are available from the Whale.
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST
Coláiste Bhríde Carnew presents ‘Beauty and the Beast’ at St Brigid’s Hall, Carnew, at 8 p.m. Doors open at 7.30 p.m. and tickets cost €12.
COLÁISTE RÁITHÍN MUSICAL
Coláiste Ráithín students will deliver a spectacle of music, dance and drama, as they bring their transition year musical to the stage in the Mermaid Arts Centre at 8 p.m. The students will continue to build on the school’s longstanding culture of bringing excellent drama to the stage. Tickets cost €15/€10 and are available from the Mermaid.
HISTORY TALK
The guest speaker for the Enniskerry History Society talk at 8.30 p.m. in the Powerscourt Arms Hotel will be author and journalist Ken Finlay, who will recall ‘366 Days of Dublin’. All are welcome to come along. Admission is €5.
CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT
Cruinniu present their eighth annual Carols By Candlelight: O Holy Night! at 8 p.m. in SS Mary and Peter’s Church Arklow. A selection of festive favourites, including sacred and popular pieces, will be performed. Suggested donation: €5.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13
CHRISTMAS STABLES
Children will love the chance to meet some of Santa’s animals, including Santa’s deer, pygmy goats, miniature donkeys, rabbits and guinea pigs, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Powerscourt Garden Pavilion. A visit to the stables is free of charge.
WILD WREATH-MAKING
Join Karen Robinson of the RHSI at 11.30 a.m. for give expert advice on sourcing wild materials and professional tuition in this Christmas wreath workshop at Russborough House. The two-hour workshop, which includes all materials, costs €45 or €55 if combined with a tour of the house. Tickets are available from eventbrite.ie.
COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS LUNCH
Greystones Family Resource Centre will host its community Christmas lunch from 1 p.m. to 4.30 p.m. at Greystones Golf Club. There will be a two-course dinner, raffle and music and guests are asked to bring a Kris Kindle gift (€5 limit). The cost is €20 and places must be booked in advance (before Monday, December 9) by calling 01 2557528.
TEDDY BEAR SLEEPOVER
Greystones Library will play host to a very special event as a Polar Express teddy bear sleepover takes place at 3 p.m. The event will include Christmas storytime with Mrs Claus and is suitable for children aged three and over. Places must be booked in advance by contacting the library on 01 2873548 or greylib@wicklowcoco.ie
SHIMMY DOWN THE CHIMNEY
Studio 55 Dance Academy will host the first of two productions of its Christmas show ‘Shimmy Down the Chimney’ in St Mary’s Concert Hall at 6.30 p.m. Tickets cost €8 for adults, €5 for children or €25 for a family (two adults and two children). Tickets can be reserved by texting 083 8282833.
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST
Coláiste Bhríde Carnew presents ‘Beauty and the Beast’ at St Brigid’s Hall, Carnew, at 8 p.m. Doors open at 7.30 p.m. and tickets cost €12.
AN EVENING OF CHRISTMAS CHEER
Wicklow and District Lions Club presents An Evening of Christmas Cheer at 8 p.m. in Tinakilly House, Rathnew. The concert will feature the Rathmines and Rathgar Musical Society, MYTh Academy and special guests. Tickets cost €15 and are available from Track One in Wicklow town or online at gr8events.ie
TALKING HEADS’ STOP MAKING SENSE
Playback brings a live re-enactment of Talking Heads’ ‘Stop Making Sense’ to the Whale Theatre at 8 p.m. Playback is an album tribute band made up of some of Dublin’s finest singers and musicians. They have expanded to an eight-piece for this show in order to do justice to the movie’s backing vocals, synth solos and conga workouts. Tickets cost €25 and are available from the Whale.
AMAZING GRACE
’Amazing Grace’, a concert film that captures Aretha Franklin at her best, will be screened in the Mermaid Arts Centre at 8 p.m. At the height of her fame in the early 1970s, Aretha Franklin returned to her roots and recorded ‘Amazing Grace’, a live album that would go on to become the most successful gospel record of all time. The film is a celebration of human dignity and a longing for freedom and justice. Tickets cost €8/€6.50 and are available from the Mermaid.
KARAOKE NIGHT
Arklow Rugby Club are calling on karaoke lovers to head to Christy’s from 10 p.m. for a night of musical mayhem. There will be a prize of €150 for the best singer and €100 for the best entertainer. Anyone who would like to enter should call 087 7402271.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14
CHRISTMAS STABLES
Children will love the chance to meet some of Santa’s animals, including Santa’s deer, pygmy goats, miniature donkeys, rabbits and guinea pigs, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Powerscourt Garden Pavilion. A visit to the stables is free of charge.
SANTA’S STORYTIME
Arklow Library will host a morning of festive storytelling from 10.30 a.m. All ages of children are welcome and no booking is needed.
TURKEY RUN
Irish Trail Races presents the second Turkey Run at the Devil’s Glen, Ashford. This cracker of an 8km race, will have prizes for the best dressed and most original ‘turkey’ and there will be mulled wine and mince pies served up afterwards. Trail shoes and rain jackets are recommended. Registration will take place from 10 a.m. to 10.45 a.m., with the race starting at 11 a.m. It costs €25 to take part and registration is open now on register.primoevents.com
CHRISTMAS WREATH-MAKING
Join Sally Horn at 11 a.m. to create a traditional Christmas decoration at Killruddery House. Tickets cost €100 or €90 for Killruddery members and are available from Killruddery.
THE GRINCH
Get in the Christmas mood with the screening of the festive classic ‘The Grinch’ at 11 a.m. in the Courthouse Arts Centre. The movie tells the story of a cynical grump who goes on a mission to steal Christmas, only to have his heart changed by a young girl’s generous holiday spirit. Tickets cost €5 and are available from the Courthouse.
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 61 SANTA PAWS
Wicklow SPCA are inviting dog-owners to bring their beloved pet along to its Sharpeshill Animal Sanctuary near Rathdrum to meet Santa and have a professional photo taken with him between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Each doggie will receive a present from Santa while the humans will be treated to mince pice and hot cocoa. The cost is €20 (at the door), but those hoping to attend are advised to book in advance. All proceeds will go towards Wicklow SPCA.
WICKLOW CHRISTMAS MARKET
Wicklow Christmas Market is set within the Magical Abbey Grounds in Wicklow town from noon to 6 p.m. Experience the Santa Express where Oribel the mischievous and fun elf will transport you on a magical journey aboard our Santa express train to Santa’s Wonderland. There will also be live entertainment, the Alpaca Experience and funfairs.
BOATYARD CHRISTMAS MARKET
Head on down to the Boatyard Market in Greystones for some festive gift inspiration from noon to 5 p.m. This year’s market will be in support of Greystones Tidy Towns’ new sensory garden.
SANTA VISIT
An autism-friendly Santa Visit will take place in Arklow Library at 1 p.m. The event will be sensory friendly. Place are limited and booking is essential. Contact Arklow Library on 0402 39977.
CHRISTMAS CONCERT
Wicklow Miners CCE will host a lively Christmas concert from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. in Avoca Community Hall. All welcome.
SHIMMY DOWN THE CHIMNEY
Studio 55 Dance Academy will host the second of two productions of its Christmas show ‘Shimmy Down the Chimney’ in St Mary’s Concert Hall at 5.30 p.m. Tickets cost €8 for adults, €5 for children or €25 for a family (two adults and two children). Tickets can be bought at the studio or reserved by texting 083 8282833.
A SNOW WHITE CHRISTMAS
Performers Theatre School returns to the Mermaid Arts Centre with a classic Snow White tale with a Christmas twist. The show starts at 7 p.m. and features performers aged three years and over, who will bring the audience on a wonderful journey with more than one Snow White. Tickets cost €15/€12 and are available from the Mermaid.
CHARITY GIG
Pádraig Cahill and Déjá Vu have teamed up for a special charity fundraiser at 7.30 p.m. in St Patrick’s GAA Club, Wicklow town. The event will raise funds for the Kisiizi Project in Uganda and tickets, costing €10 for adults or €5 for under-16s, are available from Earls Newsagents.
A DECEMBER TO REMEMBER
There will be an evening of music and song at 7.30 p.m. in St Mary’s and St Patrick’s Church, Avoca. There will be solos, duets and ensembles, including festive and seasonal favourites, featuring Kathryn Smith (soprano), Antoinette Heery (mezzo soprano), Damien Morrissey (clarinet) and pianists Barbara Dunne and Andrian Scahill. Tickets cost €20 and are available from the parish office and after all Masses.
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST
Coláiste Bhríde Carnew presents ‘Beauty and the Beast’ at St Brigid’s Hall, Carnew, at 8 p.m. Doors open at 7.30 p.m. and tickets cost €12.
CANDLELIGHT CHRISTMAS CONCERT
Bray Choral Society presents a candlelight Christmas concert in aid of WH Five Loaves at 8 p.m. in Christ Church, Bray. There will be classic songs by GF Handel, Dan Forrest, A Corelli and H Berlioz as well as popular carols. Tickets cost €15 and are available from choir members or on the door.
A NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS
Aoife O’Connell and Ross Scanlon return to the Whale Theatre at 8 p.m. for this special Christmas concert. Wicklow’s finest singers will celebrate Christmas at home with favourites such as ‘O Holy Night’ and ‘When a Child is Born’. Tickets cost €22/€20 and are available from the Whale.
NIAMH KAVANAGH
’Date Night – Niamh Kavanagh, featuring Paul Megahy’ comes to the stage at the Courthouse Arts Centre at 8.30 p.m. The audience can expect familiar favourites interpreted in Niamh’s inimitable fashion, accompanied by guitarist Paul Megahy. Tickets cost €20/€18 and are available from the Courthouse.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 15 CHRISTMAS MARKET
A Christmas market will take place at the Brockagh Resource Centre from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., featuring unusual gifts, home baking, wreaths, jewellery, food, candles and more.
WICKLOW SANTA DASH
The Wicklow Santa Dash 5k/10k run/walk returns for its third year. The race starts from Saint Mary’s NS, Barndarrig, Kilbride at 10 a.m. Adult registration on the day is €20; children: €15. For information, visit www.popupraces.ie/race/wicklowsanta-dash-5-10k-2019/
CHRISTMAS STABLES
Children will love the chance to meet some of Santa’s animals, including Santa’s deer, pygmy goats, miniature donkeys, rabbits and guinea pigs, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Powerscourt Garden Pavilion. A visit to the stables is free of charge.
CHRISTMAS CHALLENGE
The Ballycoog Christmas Challenge will take place from 11 a.m. at St Kevin’s Hall, Ballycoog, with three different routes on offer. There will be Ballycoog Upper (a 16km hill trail run), Ballycoog Lower (an 8km trail run) and the family hill walk, which will be a 6km forest track featuring an under-16s race. Please note that pets are not permitted. There will be festive refreshments from 2.30 p.m. and medals for the children. All proceeds go to Ballycoog District Development Association. The cost of entry is €15 for adults, €5 for children or €25 for families.
CHRISTMAS WREATH-MAKING
Join Sally Horn at 11 a.m. to create a traditional Christmas decoration at Killruddery House. Tickets cost €100 or €90 for Killruddery members and are available from Killruddery.
CHRISTMAS CARD WORKSHOP
A Christmas card workshop will take place at 11 a.m. in the National Park Education Centre in Glendalough. Suitable for everyone aged seven and over (children must be accompanied by a guardian), the event will include a walk around the Upper Lake for inspiration before coming together in the education centre to explore methods for making show-stopping cards. Paper and colouring pencils will be supplied but participants are welcome to bring their own art materials. This is a free event but places must be booked in advance by calling 0404 45425.
GINGERBREAD MAN PUPPET SHOW
Join Miriam Lambert of the Lambert Puppet Theatre for a laugh-out-loud retelling of the classic story of ‘The Gingerbread Man’ at noon and 2 p.m. at Russborough House. Tickets cost €5 per person and are available from Eventbrite.ie
BOATYARD CHRISTMAS MARKET
Head on down to the Boatyard Market in Greystones for some festive gift inspiration from noon to 5 p.m. Santa will visit to meet some of the local children between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. This year’s market will be in support of Greystones Tidy Towns’ new sensory garden.
WICKLOW CHRISTMAS MARKET
Wicklow Christmas Market is set within the Magical Abbey Grounds in Wicklow Town. Experience the Santa Express where Oribel the mischievous and fun elf will transport you on a magical journey to Santa’s Wonderland. There will also be live entertainment, the Alpaca Experience and funfairs. It runs from 12 noon to 6 p.m.
A SNOW WHITE CHRISTMAS
Performers Theatre School returns to the Mermaid Arts Centre with a classic Snow White tale with a Christmas twist. The show starts at 2 p.m. and features performers aged three years and over, who will bring the audience on a wonderful journey with more than one Snow White.
Tickets cost €15/€12 or €45 for a family ticket and are available from the Mermaid.
THE NUTCRACKER
The Whale Theatre will screen the Bolshoi Ballet’s performance of ‘The Nutcracker’ at 3 p.m. This timeless story, accompanied by Tchaikovsky’s beloved score, continues to captivate audiences. Tickets cost €20/€17.50 and are available from the Whale.
CHRISTMAS CONCERT
West Wicklow Voices, led by conductor Conor O’Reilly, will be guaranteed to get everyone in the Christmas spirit as they present their festive concert at 6.30 p.m. at Russborough House. The choir has performed with an eclectic array of singers and musicians and is sure to serve up a musical treat. Tickets cost €25 (or €35 with a tour of the house) and are available at Eventbrite.ie.
CHRISTMAS CHORUS
DoMiSo Community Choir and Newtownmountkennedy Male Voice Choir will perform at Christ Church in Delgany at 7.30 p.m. Admission is €5 and proceeds will be donated to Greystones Cancer Support, the Jack and Jill Foundation and St Catherine’s Association. Musical director Frank Kelly will lead the choirs.
MONDAY, DECEMBER 16 CHRISTMAS STABLES
Children will love the chance to meet some of Santa’s animals, including Santa’s deer, pygmy goats, miniature donkeys, rabbits and guinea pigs, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Powerscourt Garden Pavilion. A visit to the stables is free of charge.
CHRISTMAS CONCERT
Arklow Library will host a family Christmas concert from 11 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. The concert will include traditional festive songs and instruments. Children can bring their favourite teddy or wear a Christmas jumper. The concert will be followed by an age-appropriate movie.
CHRISTMAS DISPLAY
Arklow Baton Twirlers will host their Christmas display night at 6.15 p.m. at Arklow Sport and Leisure Centre. Everyone is welcome to come see the athletes perform and learn exactly what baton twirling is all about.
IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE
Grab a pack of tissues and head to the Mermaid for 8 p.m. for the weepy festive classic ‘It’s a Wonderful Life.’ Beset with problems, George Bailey finds his happy life falling apart on Christmas Eve. Seeing no way out, he considers suicide until his guardian angel intervenes and shows George what his beloved hometown would be like without him. Tickets cost €8/€6.50 and are available from the Mermaid.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 17 CHRISTMAS STABLES
Children will love the chance to meet some of Santa’s animals, including Santa’s deer, pygmy goats, miniature donkeys, rabbits and guinea pigs, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Powerscourt Garden Pavilion. A visit to the stables is free of charge.
CHRISTMAS MOVIE
Arklow Library will show a Christmas movie suitable for toddlers and young children aged up to seven at 10.30 a.m. For further information, call the Library on 0402 39977.
HEART OF WINTER
Lyngo Theatre brings the magical, musical ‘Heart of Winter’ to the Mermaid Arts Centre at 4 p.m. Christmas is coming and Sally can’t sleep – it’s far too hot because the weather has gone topsy-turvy. Her dad reads her a story about the last snowflake and that night Sally has a dream that changes everything. Tickets cost €10/€8 or €30 for a family and are available from the Mermaid.
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18 HEART OF WINTER
Lyngo Theatre brings the magical, musical ‘Heart of Winter’ to the Mermaid Arts Centre at 10 a.m. Christmas is coming and Sally can’t sleep. Her dad reads her a story about the last snowflake and that night Sally has a dream that changes everything. Tickets cost €10/€8 or €30 for a family and are available from the Mermaid.
CHRISTMAS STORYTIME
Arklow Library will host Christmas Storytime for babies and toddlers from 10 a.m. There will also be festive arts and crafts. Speak with a member of library staff for further information.
CHRISTMAS STABLES
Children will love the chance to meet some of Santa’s animals, including Santa’s deer, pygmy goats, miniature donkeys, rabbits and guinea pigs, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Powerscourt Garden Pavilion. A visit to the stables is free of charge.
THE GRINCH
Dive into the world of Dr Seuss, with a screening of‘ The Gr inch ’, the cynical grump who goes on a mission to steal Christmas. This funny, heartwarming movie kicks off at 7 p.m. and tickets cost €8/€6.50 and are available from the Mer maid Arts Centre.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19 CHRISTMAS STABLES
Children will love the chance to meet some of Santa’s animals, including Santa’s deer, pygmy goats, miniature donkeys, rabbits and guinea pigs, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Powerscourt Garden Pavilion. A visit to the stables is free of charge.
THE NUTCRACKER AND THE FOUR REALMS
Settle down for a festive treat at the Mermaid Arts Centre as Clara (Mackenzie Foy) seeks the one-of-a-kind key that will unlock a box that holds a gift from her late mother. A golden thread leads her to the coveted key — which promptly disappears into a strange and mysterious parallel world where Clara encounters a soldier named Phillip, a gang of mice and the regents who preside over three Realms. This movie begins at 7 p.m. and tickets, costing €8/€6.50, are available from the Mermaid.
CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT
At 7.30 p.m., a candlelit procession through the monastic gates in Glendalough will proceed to the ruins of the candlelit cathedral for an evening of traditional carol singing. Tea and coffee will be provided afterwards in the Glendalough Hotel. This a free event and open to everyone, including children, which must be accompanied by an adult. Participants should wrap up warm, bring a torch and a assemble in the Glendalough Hotel car park at 7.15 p.m.
ORSON WELLES’ CHRISTMAS CAROL
About FACE Ireland presents Orson Welles’ ‘Christmas Carol’ at the Whale Theatre at 8 p.m. It’s Christmas Eve 1938 in CBS Studio 1, where Orson Welles and his Mercury Theatre Company are set to perform ‘A Christmas Carol’. It’s 10 minutes to go and legendary Scrooge Lionel Barrymore has fallen sick. Orson has to step into his shoes; the script still isn’t right, his cast are revolting; and the pressure’s on after the success of ‘War of the Worlds’. Tickets cost €18/€15 and are available from the Whale.
ARDMORE CHRISTMAS DRAW
The annual Ardmore Rovers Christmas Draw and night out takes place in The Wild Goose at 8.30 p.m. There will be €2,000 worth of prizes to be won and an exclusive raffle for those in attendance at what is always a very enjoyable evening.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 20 CHRISTMAS STABLES
Children will love the chance to meet some of Santa’s animals, including Santa’s deer, pygmy goats, miniature donkeys, rabbits and guinea pigs, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Powerscourt Garden Pavilion. A visit to the stables is free of charge.
ELF
Greystones Film Club presents the delightful and sentimental ‘Elf’ at the Whale Theatre at 4.30 p.m. Will Ferrell has rarely been better as unlikely elf Buddy, who is taking the long walk from the North Pole to find his birth father. Tickets cost €10 and are available from the Whale.
SWAN LAKE
Ballet Ireland brings its national tour of the most famous ballet to the Mermaid Arts Centre at 7 p.m. ‘Swan Lake’ is one of the great love stories of classical ballet and combines classical technique and ethereal imagery with Tchaikovsky’s majestic score. Tickets cost €25/€23 or €84 for a family ticket and are available from the Mermaid.
SEASON OF LOVE
The senior students of Studio 55 present ‘Season of Love’, a festive musical theatre showcase, in aid of Arklow Community Action Resource Centre. The show begins at 7.30 p.m. at Studio 55 in the Bridgewater Shopping Centre. Tickets cost €10.
LOVE ACTUALLY
Greystones Film Club presents the seasonal favourite ‘Love Actually’ at 8 p.m. in the Whale Theatre. The film follows the loves and losses of a number of characters as their stories criss-cross and culminate in a sentimential scene in airport arrivals. Tickets cost €10 and are available from the Whale.
CHRISTMAS JUMPER NIGHT
The Scoil Aodán Naofa Parents Council will host a Christmas jumper night at 9 p.m. in McCreas Bar in Carnew. Entry will be €5 per person and all proceeds will be used to fund interactive whiteboards for the school.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 21 SANTA DASH
Arklow Christmas Festival has teamed up with Inbhear Mor AC to host a Santa Dash at the Arklow Duck Pond at 9.30 a.m. People are encouraged to dress in festive gear to add to the Christmas spirit and to soak up the atmosphere as they walk, run or jog for one mile with family and friends around the Duck Pond.