EXPLORE Donegal’s Lapland, until Saturday 22 December. Santa’s Island at Donegal’s Lapland is a unique and truly magical, fun-filled experience for children of all ages. They will get to meet Santa and his eleves, and receive a special gift from him this Christmas. Lights and snow will help make this festive experience even more magical. There will also be animals to admire. When the live show gets underway, the head elf appears as well as the magical Christmas star, right before the story unfolds. Tickets are selling fast, so visit www.donegalslapland.ie to book your Lapland Christmas experience.

VISIT Wicklow Christmas Market this Saturday 22 December. Set within the magical Abbey Grounds in Wicklow town, this special market features traditional German-style stalls, an alpaca experience, artisan food, live music, a funfair craft market, Santa Claus and much more. Book in for a Christmas cupcake decorating workshop on the day too. Enjoy a family stroll and some yummy hot chocolate before the madness of Christmas kicks in. Find out more at www.discoverireland.ie

MEET Santa at Limerick’s Santa Clause Experience on 20-23 December. The Jetland shopping centre welcomes back the big man, with adults alike embarking on a magical journey to Santa’s house. Travel through five fun-filled festive rooms, meeting elves, reindeer, polar bears and maybe even getting to ride in Santa’s sleigh. Because Santa is magic, he seems to know something about every boy and girl, so be good this December. Further information and tickets available online at www.familyfun.ie

GALLOP on down to Leopardstown’s Christmas Festival, running over four days from Wednesday 26 December until Saturday 29 December. The Leopardstowm Christmas Festival is filled with glamour, festivities, music, entertainment and top-class National Hunt Racing. The festival features seven Grade I races over the four days, as well as extra attractions each day – including live music in the festival marquee, winning line celebrity tipster panel, the Savills style awards and a range of free children’s activities on family day. So, get glammed up and enjoy a post-Christmas day out with friends. For more specific times, dates and booking information see www.leopardstown.com/Leopardstown_Christmas_Festival

PLAY with Santa’s elves at Moher Hill Farm, Co Clare. Sticking around until Sunday 23 December, some of Santa’s favourite elves have moved into the barn to use it as a toy-making workshop. Some even work at Moher Hill’s very own North Pole post office, where you can post your letter to Santa. Let the little ones admire Santa’s exotic pets, including alpacas, donkeys, calves and ostriches, while you enjoy a homemade brew and sweet treat. Moher Hill farm offers an outdoor alternative for both parents and kids, over the Christmas period. Visit www.moherfarm.com for more information.