A MAJOR Christmas attraction is set to open in a popular seaside town in just weeks.
Ice Skating Dún Laoghaire is back this November with a thrilling new addition this year – the Alpine Skate Trail.
After a successful debut last year, this year’s event will feature a brand-new ice skating experience inspired by the renowned Fota House & Gardens trail in Cork.
The Alpine Skate Trail will welcome visitors from November 1 to January 12, transforming Dún Laoghaire harbour into a winter wonderland.
To celebrate the launch, Iceskating.ie is offering a limited number of Early Bird tickets for just €14 – a 33 per cent discount from the regular price.
This year’s skating adventure has a winding trail that includes thrilling straights all set against a magical backdrop of Alps-style trees with twinkling festoon lighting and snow-covered chalets.
The trail offers a fresh take on ice skating, diverging from the traditional rink experience it offered last year.
Experienced skaters can dive straight into the trail’s new layout, while beginners can practice on a designated smaller rink, complete with Penguin Skate Aids to help them get their footing.
Managing Director at Cool Running Events Bill Cremin said: “We are delighted to bring Alpine Skate Trail to Dún Laoghaire harbour this festive season.
“With our ice skating experiences, we like to imagine the unimaginable and then bring that to life.
“We believe now is the right time to introduce it to Dublin skaters and show them what they’ve been missing out on.
“We encourage everyone to give it a go once, but we can’t guarantee you won’t be back.”
Cremin revealed that the concept of a skating trail, popular in Canada and Austria, is now making its debut in Dublin.
What’s more, for those residing in North Dublin and the surrounding areas, Iceskating.ie is also excited to announce the return of Ice Skating Blanchardstown.
This iconic spot will open its doors from November 15th to January 26th, continuing to hold the title of Ireland’s largest ice skating rink.
Major investment has also been made in enhancing the rink’s themes and decoration, including new festoon lighting that adds a winter glow to the evening skates.
Early Bird tickets for Ice Skating Blanchardstown are also on sale now, so be sure to grab them while they last and enjoy a memorable skating experience this Christmas.
CHRISTMAS SHOP
Meanwhile, a major Christmas shop has opened months before the big day.
This year, the shop offers an amazing variety of decorations, from large statement pieces to the perfect little details to suit any home.
Arnotts has even curated three exciting themes to capture the magic of the Christmas season, offering something for every style and taste.
The Christmas Shop is located on the second level of the store and features everything from stunning wreaths and garlands to festive bows, baubles, and Christmas crackers.
Whether you’re drawn to a candy-filled wonderland, or a mystical evergreen forest, Arnotts invites you to experience the magic of Christmas early this year.
FIVE MORE XMAS EVENTS
HERE’S five more events to check out this Christmas.
- Dublin Christmas Lights: The annual Christmas lights switch-on will occur on November 1, with festive decorations illuminating key areas such as Grafton Street and O’Connell Street.
- Winterval in Waterford: Starting November 17 this large Christmas festival features markets, light displays, and entertainment throughout the city.
- The Belfast Christmas Market: Opening on November 16 at the City Hall grounds, offering a variety of food, crafts, and seasonal goods.
- Galway Christmas Market: Set to begin on November 17 in Eyre Square, featuring festive stalls, food, and live entertainment.
- Killarney Winter Wonderland: Opens November 23, with attractions including a Christmas market, ice skating, and Santa’s Grotto.
