Christmas in Cork — Events, Shopping & Stay with Us
Experience the magic of Christmas in Cork City and make it even more special by staying with us at Talbot Hotel Cork, Ballincollig. Enjoy festive events, city lights, shopping, seasonal experiences, and return each evening to comfort, dining, and warm hospitality in our Oriel Bar & Bistro.
Cork City Christmas Events & Highlights
Experience the magic of the season with a variety of festive events and attractions taking place across Cork City this Christmas. Whether you are planning a family day out, a romantic winter escape, or a shopping weekend with friends, Cork offers something special for everyone.
Corkmas in the City
Cork comes alive with twinkling lights, seasonal displays, and festive cheer throughout the city centre. Take a stroll along St. Patrick’s Street, Opera Lane, and Grand Parade to enjoy beautifully decorated streets, window displays, and a welcoming holiday atmosphere.
Corkmas Parade
Enjoy the excitement of the annual Corkmas Parade, where performers, musicians, and entertainers bring Christmas spirit to the heart of the city. A highlight for families and visitors alike, the parade captures the joy and magic of the festive season in Cork.
The second Corkmas Parade will return Friday November 14th.
The Ferris Wheel
Transforming the skyline and offering unparalleled views of the surrounding area, Cork’s much-loved 32-metre Panoramic Wheel brings festive cheer to the heart of the city. Take in breathtaking views of Cork City’s sparkling Christmas lights from above and enjoy a truly magical perspective of the season. Located in a central city spot, this iconic attraction is a highlight for visitors of all ages. For younger guests, the classic Carousel nearby offers timeless fun and a touch of nostalgia, making it a perfect family favourite during Cork’s Christmas celebrations.
Santa Experience
The Corkmas Santa Experience returns to Emmet Place for Christmas 2025, bringing joy and wonder to children and families across Cork.
Opening on Friday, 28 November, the Santa Experience runs each Friday to Sunday until 21 December, offering an unforgettable festive adventure.
Opening Times:
• Friday: 4.00pm – 8.00pm
• Saturday: 11.00am – 8.00pm
• Sunday: 11.00am – 7.30pm
Meet Santa and his elves in one of Cork’s most magical Christmas traditions. Each ticket includes a chat with Santa’s Chief Elf, a personal visit with Santa, and a special age-appropriate gift. Families can also choose to capture the moment with an optional photograph with Santa (€8).
Tickets: €20 per person
Pre-booking is essential through the official online booking system.
The Corkmas Santa Experience is proudly brought to you by Milestone Inventive.
For booking details and availability, visit A Cork Christmas Celebration.
Christmas Market
The Corkmas Christmas Market returns to Emmet Place for Christmas 2025, transforming the area into a festive winter village filled with lights, music, and seasonal cheer. This much-loved market brings together a wide mix of vendors, local craftspeople, and food producers offering handcrafted gifts, artisan crafts, and delicious festive treats.
Families and visitors can wander through charming wooden chalets, soak up the glittering lights, and immerse themselves in the warmth and atmosphere of Cork’s Christmas celebrations. The market will once again share its home with the Corkmas Santa Experience, where visitors can meet Santa by appointment nearby.
Dates of Operation:
Friday, 21 November – Monday, 22 December 2025
Opening Days:
After the opening weekend, the market will operate each week from Thursday to Sunday, plus Monday, 22 December
Opening Times:
• Thursday & Friday: 12.00pm – 8.00pm
• Saturday & Sunday: 10.00am – 8.00pm
Enjoy the magic of Christmas in Cork with festive shopping, live entertainment, and seasonal food and drink — all just a short distance from Talbot Hotel Cork.
For the full Corkmas programme, visit A Cork Christmas Celebration.
Winterlee
Experience the magic of WinterLEE at Páirc Uí Chaoimh, where festive lights, an ice rink, seasonal food stalls, and family entertainment come together to create Cork’s ultimate winter wonderland. Date not announced yet.
