What to do and where to shop in Laois this Christmas
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LAOIS locals in want of some festive cheer can expect a variety of options this Christmastime.
The festive period is already underway, and locals and visitors have already experienced memorable seasonal events such as the Abbeyleix House & Farm Christmas Market, Dunamaise Arts & Crafts Fair, Ballylinan Christmas Craft Fair, Abbeyleix Lights & Market, Timahoe Christmas Fair, and Killenard Christmas Market.
Attendees of these markets and events enjoyed handmade gifts, festive food, and live music, all centred on holiday cheer.
Christmastime in Laois continues throughout December, with two Solas Christmas Markets on 14 and 21 December. These events, which take place in the Solas Eco Garden Shop, Portarlington, promise local crafts and food in celebration of the Christmas period.
The Falls, Glenbarrow Christmas Market on 14 December also promises a unique shopping experience with seasonal gifts in a memorable natural setting, while Bloom HQ will deliver live music to help locals get in the Christmas spirit.
For anyone looking for a unique Christmas gift, Nook and Cranny Gift Shop in Portlaoise offers interesting gift ideas from quality brands, while Market Square Studio offers specially crafted and designed Irish-made gifts.
For foodies, Laois Taste – a diverse group of 26 Laois-based food and drink producers – offer taste hampers comprised of local products, available for all budgets.
Laois will also play host to Santa’s workshop, which comes to life in the woods through Stradbally Woodland Railway. From 6 – 14 December, locals and visitors can enjoy face-painting, festive games, and a special steam-powered woodland train ride with Mrs Claus, which includes a special meeting with Santa himself. Tickets are €22 for festive fun.
Families looking for further cheer can also enjoy Supper with Santa on 22 December at the Talbot Hotel, Portlaoise Road, Carlow. For €38, the day’s activities include soft play from 3:30pm in the Dome Congo Quest and dinner at 5:00pm in An Bhearú Bar & Bistro, complete with mulled wine for parents. There may even be an appearance from Santa’s elf.
