Christmas glow

4-21 December: From a fairy village for kids to food markets, Cork’s Glow has something for all the family. The market will be open every weekend in the lead-up to Christmas, while the Bishop Lucey Park will be transformed into a pop-up book of ’Twas the Night Before Christmas. Visit www.corkchristmascelebration.ie

Santa forest train

4-24 December: Avondale Forest Park in Rathdrum, Co Wicklow, is the location for Santa’s forest train this December. The train takes in 500 acres of woodland in one hour. Children can see elves making and testing toys, and they might even catch a glimpse of Santa. For more, visit www.theforesttrain.ie

Santa visit

5-14 December: Mellowes Adventure Centre in Meath will play host to Santa and his friends. Visit Mrs Claus in her busy kitchen, make arts and crafts and listen to a story with Patch the Elf in Santa’s bedroom. Visitors can also see Santa’s workshop and write their Christmas letter. See www.mellowes.ie for tickets and information.

Cork farmers’ market

6, 13, 20 December: The December Killavullen farmers’ market will take place at the Nano Nagle Centre on 6 and 13 December at 10.30am-1pm, and on 20 December at 6.30pm-8pm, to celebrate the winter solstice. The best in local produce will be on offer at the market. For information, visit www.killavullenfarmersmarket.com

Leitrim market

7 December: North Leitrim Women’s Centre will hold its annual Christmas market at the Bee Park Centre, Manorhamilton, from noon until 4pm. Stands will be selling jewellery, crafts, wine, home baking and more. Carol singers will provide entertainment on the day. Call 071-985-6220 for more information.