'I'm dreaming of a green and white Christmas': New event announced for Limerick's festive season

LIMERICK City and County Council have announced a brand-new immersive Christmas experience for this holiday season.

The experience will take place at King John's Castle as part of the Christmas in Limerick 2026 programme of events.

Running from Saturday, November 21 to Wednesday, December 23, ‘Castle Christmas’ will transform one of Limerick's most iconic landmarks into a “magical festive world” where families become part of the story.

A spokesperson for the event said: “Combining immersive theatre, festive activities, Santa encounters and a unique teddy bear workshop experience, Castle Christmas promises to become a highlight of the Christmas season in Limerick.”

The announcement marks the first major reveal for Christmas in Limerick 2026, as preparations continue for another festival programme designed to “animate the city, support local businesses and create memorable experiences for residents and visitors alike”.

Following a competitive tender process, Limerick City and County Council has appointed Big Boss Group to develop and deliver the experience, working with the creators of the popular Elf Town Galway and in partnership with Discover Limerick DAC.

Designed as an experience to enjoy together, families will journey through the castle meeting a cast of festive characters, each bringing their own part of the Christmas story to life.

Rather than simply watching the action, visitors become “part of the adventure” as they explore the different spaces.

Mayor of Limerick, John Moran is excited to announce the new experience, saying: “This year, the North Pole is landing on the banks of the Shannon, as King John's Castle opens its gates to Santa, his elves and a Teddy Bear Workshop for children. One of my ambitions has been to create an animated city centre stretching from the medieval quarter through the heart of the city and up to The Crescent, so this is a very welcome addition.

“Castle Christmas gives families another good reason to spend time in Limerick this December. Go raibh míle maith agaibh to our Festivals and Events team and everyone involved in bringing it together. I'm dreaming of a green and white Christmas this year!”

Príomh Chomhairleoir, Cllr Tom Ruddle, added: “Castle Christmas is a wonderful addition to Limerick's festive offering. It combines family fun, imagination and the unique setting of King John's Castle to create something completely new for the city.

“Families will have the opportunity to make lasting memories together while enjoying one of Limerick's most treasured landmarks in a very different way.”

Director general of Limerick City and County Council, Dr Pat Daly, said: “We are delighted to be working with Big Boss Events to deliver what promises to be a premium Christmas experience in the iconic King John’s Castle.

“Castle Christmas further strengthens Christmas in Limerick as a destination festival and reflects our commitment to investing in high-quality attractions and experiences that enhance Limerick's reputation as a vibrant place to visit throughout the year.”

Aws Vidal and Riann O’Dwyer of Big Boss Group commented: “We are absolutely thrilled to bring Castle Christmas to life inside one of Ireland’s most extraordinary historical venues. Our focus from the beginning was to design an experience that goes far beyond a standard Santa visit creating an interactive, 75-minute theatrical journey where families step directly into the magic.

“From meeting Santa and exploring the castle grounds to creating their own personalised keepsake in the Teddy Bear Workshop, every detail has been crafted to build lasting holiday memories. King John’s Castle provides an unmatched backdrop, and we can’t wait to welcome families from across Limerick and beyond this season.”

Castle Christmas is one of a number of attractions and events currently being planned for Christmas in Limerick 2026, with additional announcements on festive entertainment, family experiences and city-centre activities to be made in the coming weeks.

What to expect:

The Castle Christmas experience, lasting approximately 75 minutes, begins with a warm welcome, with each family receiving Christmas hats, name badges and a map to help guide them through their adventure.

Families will then set off through the experience, discovering immersive environments, meeting elves and taking part in festive activities along the way.

A special Castle Christmas invitation pack can also be added to the experience. Delivered to your home in a personalised red envelope addressed to the child, the pack contains a personalised invitation, a novelty ticket to meet Santa and a special Castle Christmas gift, creating “a little piece of Christmas magic” before the family even arrives.

The journey builds towards a very special meeting with Santa Claus, who knows something special about each child, where they will have the opportunity to tell him their Christmas wishes and receive a gift.

And the magic doesn't stop there. Children receive a special token to take to the Teddy Bear Workshop, where they can personalise their own teddy bear to bring home as a keepsake of their Christmas adventure.

With optional face painting, festive treats, activity packs and professional photographs available, Castle Christmas is designed around spending time together and creating memories, rather than simply buying another Christmas present.

The experience is designed to allow families to enjoy the Christmas adventure without feeling rushed.

There will be four arrival times available each hour and a maximum of 20 visitors per time slot.

Adult tickets for the experience cost from €16.50, children's tickets from €37.50, and €12.50 for babies (up to 13 months on date of visit).

For more information and booking visit Limerick.ie/Christmas.