Christmas at Bunratty 2025

A truly magical festive experience

 

Guess who's coming to Bunratty! We are absolutely delighted to announce that Santa Claus will be making his highly anticipated return to his enchanting grotto on Village Street at Bunratty Castle and Folk Park this festive season. Prepare for an unforgettable celebration, as our Christmas Experience, already one of Ireland's most cherished, is set to be bigger and more magical than ever in our stunning setting.
 

Sneak Peek .... Christmas Experience at Bunratty Castle & Folk Park


Visit Santa in his Grotto

From November 28th to December 23rd, Santa will be in his famous grotto on Bunratty Folk Park's charming village street. He will be ready to welcome children from across Ireland, hear their Christmas wishes and delightful stories, and give them a special thank-you gift for their visit.

PRE-BOOKING ESSENTIAL

  • Adult: €20 per person

  • Child: €39.99 per person

  • Baby 0-12 months: €10 per person


To visit Santa, tickets must be pre-booked online to gain admission.

To book tickets please click on BOOK NOW button below 


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What's included ...

  • Personal visit with Santa Claus and select your own gift!

  • Assortment of Amusement Rides including Tea Cups, Swinging Chairs, Pirate Adventure Ship

  • Polar Express Train Ride

  • Tunnel of Lights

  • Puppet Shows 

  • Traditional Christmas Tales with our resident Seanchaí

  • Meet Christmas Characters including Scrooge, The Grinch, Mary Poppins and more​

  • Meet Mrs Claus in the Golden Vale Farmhouse 
     

Optional Extra (not included):

  • Souvenir photo of Santa Visit

Souvenir photo with Santa in his grotto is provided by an external supplier and are available for purchase.
Price: €12.50 for 1 Photo / 3 Photos for €25


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26 Acres of Magic & Wonder

Tis the season to be jolly and in addition to Santa Claus making a welcome return to his grotto in this quaint little corner of County Clare, due to popular demand his merry band of elves will also return this year to create a magical illuminated festive Trail of Lights for all to enjoy across the 26 acres of Bunratty Folk Park.

Once you have given your Christmas list to Santa, take the time to explore the winter wonderland that is Bunratty Folk Park with twinkling fairy lights, friendly elves, indoor and outdoor installations and all of your favourite festive characters all included in your ticket price.


Follow the Trail of Lights

Magical Amusement Rides

By popular demand, an array of festive fun-filled amusement rides is back across Bunratty Castle and Folk Park this Christmas season! Get ready to spin in the magical Tea Cups, soar on the sensational swinging chairs, and brave the jiggling, wriggling pirate ship. A day packed with festive thrills and laughter is guaranteed for all!

 


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Christmas Tales and Traditions

Beyond Santa's grotto, the festive magic continues! Join our cherished resident Seanchaí, Mikey Joe, for fireside storytelling where he'll share timeless Christmas tales. Discover enchanting narratives of celebrations from yesteryear, uncover cherished lost traditions, and truly experience what makes an Irish Christmas so uniquely magical.


Meet a Host of Festive Characters


Christmas Characters 
Pop by the Golden Vale Farmhouse and say hello to Mrs Claus as as she prepares treats while making sure Santa’s suit is washed and ironed for his big journey across the globe on Christmas Eve or take a wander along the village street,  illuminated as always in a true festive splendour and meet a host of seasonal characters including the Grinch, Scrooge, Mary Poppins, Rudolph, Jack Frost and much more all on hand to enthral and entertain you as you make your way through this magical festive trail.

Tales & Traditions
Other festive attractions include  traditional Christmas tales fireside with our resident Seanchaí, Mikey Joe.
Hear tales of Christmas long ago, long lost traditions and what makes a truly magical Irish Christmas.


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Christmas Trails & Tales

Magical Village Street & Polar Express

Bunratty Village Street

Embark on a stroll down our picturesque village street, where a delicate dusting of snow kisses the cobblestones and spirited characters spread Christmas joy. Browse the delightful shops, filled with festive cheer and charming gifts and then unwind at Mac's Traditional Irish Pub with a warming mug of mulled wine or comforting hot chocolate.

Polar Express 

Embark on a captivating journey aboard the Bunratty Polar Express! This magical train ride whisks you through the wintery wonderland of Bunratty Folk Park. Along the way, marvel at the charming fairy village, the dazzling illuminations of Bunratty House, and the sparkling lights of Ardcrony Church. But that's not all – keep your eyes peeled for many more delightful surprises waiting to be discovered!

 


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Puppet & Magic Shows

Who's ready for a dose of festive giggles and a sprinkle of magic this Christmas season? We are thrilled to announce the return of our fun, festive puppet and magic shows for Christmas 2025! These enchanting performances are a huge hit with families of all ages, running throughout the day and promising to fill you with undeniable Christmas cheer.


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Important Information for Membership Holders

Please note, a personal visit to Santa's grotto is not included in your annual membership as per our membership terms and conditions.

Please note however that general access to Bunratty Castle and Folk Park throughout the month of December is included. During this time, members can enjoy the light installations, festive characters (exclu. Santa), train rides, puppet shows and more.

To gain admission, simply present your valid membership card and photo ID at admissions on day of your visit.
No pre booking required.


Member Information

Visitors with Sensory Needs

At Bunratty Castle and Folk Park we do our utmost to facilitate our customers regardless of their needs. Should you or a member of your family require additional assistance during your visit to our Christmas Experience please do not hesitate to contact us in advance. For families with sensory needs please contact our reservations office directly on 061 711222 or email bunratty@claretourismdev.ie.
 
Our team will arrange a dedicated arrival time for your booking at which time an experienced member of staff will meet and greet you upon arrival. After check in, your family to be escorted directly to the grotto and will be the first family to visit Santa at your selected time slot. If required, no flash photography will take in place in the grotto. You will also be given fast track access to the photo booth to collect your photo.
 
This service is reserved exclusively for families with special needs and bookings must be made via our reservations office directly on 061 711222 or email bunratty@claretourismdev.ie.


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