The Galway Christmas Market!
Near The Ardilaun Hotel
As one of the most popular Christmas markets in Ireland, the Galway Christmas Market gives the already festive city an extra layer of buzz. Attracting over 600,000 visitors every year over the course of 35 days, the Galway Christmas Market, in the heart of the city is a national highlight of the festive season, suitable for all ages and is located in Eyre Square in the City center, only 5 minutes drive or 30 minute walk form The Ardilaun Hotel.
The 2025 Christmas Market is the 15th year of the market in Galway and visitors can expect to enjoy a wide variety of entertainment and stalls. Building on the successful format of previous years, the market is always a hive of activity with lots of entertainment. Once again, this year will feature amusement rides including a 32-metre high ferris wheel and traditional carousel, Santa’s express train, live music performers, puppet shows, storytelling, school choirs and of course, we all know that it’s not Christmas without a visit to Santa’s Grotto, run by local charities.
Food lovers can feast on a bratwurst, French pastries, pretzels or confectionery, crêpes and waffles, while families and friends can enjoy a walk through the enchanted light gardens providing the perfect backdrop for a Christmas Market photo, stop off at Santa’s post-box and much more.
Call our reservations team to enquire about overnight packages, afternoon teas or to purchase a gift voucher for your loved ones on 091 521433 or email reservations@theardilaunhotel.ie
Elf Town Galway – A Magical Christmas Experience!
Near The Ardilaun Hotel
If you're looking to truly immerse yourself in the magic of Christmas this year, Elf Town Galway is the place to be. Located just a short 5-minute drive or a 30-minute scenic walk from The Ardilaun Hotel, Elf Town is one of Ireland’s most enchanting festive experiences for families.
Now in its 2025 season, Elf Town continues to grow in popularity, offering an unforgettable, interactive Christmas journey for children and adults alike. Spread across multiple festive zones, visitors will be transported into a world of twinkling lights, playful elves, and heartwarming surprises.
Each guest is taken on a guided tour through a series of magical rooms and encounters – from decorating cookies with Mrs. Claus, to training at Elf School, and even a stop at the Elf Village. Along the way, there are plenty of photo opportunities, light displays, and cheerful characters to meet.
The highlight for many is a personal visit with Santa Claus himself, where each child receives a special gift and can post their Christmas wish in Santa’s official post-box. Elf Town is all about creating memorable moments, with storytelling sessions, festive crafts, interactive games, and more to keep the Christmas spirit alive.
There are also festive treats available on-site for hungry visitors – from hot chocolate and cookies to seasonal sweets and snacks. Whether you're a local or visiting Galway for the holidays, a trip to Elf Town promises to be a magical experience for the whole family.
Santa's Christmas Magic at Brigit's Garden!
Santa’s Christmas Magic at Brigit’s Garden is a unique, non-commercial celebration – full of seasonal joy, wonder and music! The 2 ½ hour experience includes stories with Mrs Claus, an elfish Treasure Hunt around the Celtic Gardens, arts & crafts and children make a holiday decoration to bring home and the Wishing Tree for special wishes or memorial cards for a loved one. The highlight of the day is the professional music show with Santa and his musical elf, Elfeena, featuring well-known theatre and street artists Tracy Bruen, Orla McGovern and Maria Tivnan. The show finale is getting the children’s help in lighting the Christmas tree by magic!
It's taking place December 8, 14, 15, 21 and 22 with 3 times per day – 11.30am, 1pm and 2.30pm (please note there is no 2:30pm on the 22nd). This year we are offering a relaxed performance with Lámh signing for the 2.30pm intake on Sunday 8th December (suitable for children with special needs & autism).
Get ready to kick off the Christmas season at Brigit’s Garden, just 20 minutes from Galway City on the road to Connemara.
Call our reservations team to enquire about overnight packages, afternoon teas or to purchase a gift voucher for your loved ones on 091 521433 or email reservations@theardilaunhotel.ie