Dust off your Santa hat and get into the festive spirit as Christmas in Cork has officially begun with the launch of Glow festival. A festival for all ages, not only is there a range of culinary delights to enjoy at various stalls, Bishop Lucey Park has also been transformed into a Winter wonderland with a “night before Christmas” theme- a 3D version of the famous book with real-life characters and original music (Friday-Sunday 4pm-8pm)
This year the festival brings an exciting new addition- Ireland’s largest ferris wheel which promises a 30 minute ride over Cork City. There is also a Christmas market display on Grand Parade complete with festive food offerings and many craft stalls.
Glow: A Christmas Celebration runs until December 23rd
Glow is expected to draw an estimated 200,000 people to the city centre in search of festive fun. With Fota Imagine as well as a range of other activities taking place in Cork over the next few weeks, Cork is set to be the city to visit whilst on a trip to Ireland over the next few weeks.
As part of the celebration there is also a free Carols by Candlelight event in St Augustine’s Church on December 18. About to enjoy her first ride on the wheel, Cork’s Lord Mayor Cllr Mary Shields admitted she was nervous but was gathering strength from her four-year-old grandson Hugh.
“We’re just here enjoying some family fun time, that’s what it’s all about,” she said.
“There’s a great atmosphere around the place, everyone’s smiling and the kids are in great form. I hope everyone comes into town to enjoy themselves and to enjoy the great Christmas feeling we have here.”
Not to be outdone by Cork, a range of other cities nationwide are also getting into the Christmas spirit. The Galway Continental Market, WinterVal Festival in Waterford, Milk Market Limerick and St. Stephen’s Green Festival in Dublin are some of the best festive stalls to visit in the lead up to Christmas.