Festival returns this weekend, featuring bustling markets, lights and illuminations, Santa’s Sleigh visit, street theatre, and more!
Roscommon County Council wishes to invite you to ‘Choose Roscommon’ this Christmas and discover all the county has to offer, including its festive Christmas markets and enchanting lights display.
On December 7th and 8th, the annual Roscommon Christmas Festival, presented by the Roscommon Town Team, Roscommon LEADER Partnership, Roscommon Lights Committee and supported by Roscommon County Council, will delight visitors with its festive ambience, food and a wide range of exciting events. Visitors seeking festive entertainment can explore the charming town of Roscommon and indulge in seasonal offerings and events right across the county, creating cherished festive memories that will last a lifetime.
Highlights of Roscommon Christmas Festival include festive fire and circus performances, a Santa’s Sleigh visit, a captivating dinosaur display, an enchanted Christmas trail at Loughnaneane Park, the bustling markets in Roscommon Town Square, and the grand finale: a spectacular fireworks display!
The festive fire and circus performances will take place in Roscommon on December 7th. From mid-afternoon, as the sun begins to set, fire and circus performers will bring the heat and take to the streets to juggle, twirl and tumble across Roscommon town. The thrilling performances are perfect for families of all ages.
Santa’s Sleigh visit will take place on both the 7th and 8th of December. He’s making his list, and checking it twice. For those who have been naughty or nice, Santa’s sleigh will be passing through Roscommon town Square at 4.30 pm – perfect for those who want to wish Santa luck as he prepares to deliver presents in time for Christmas.
The captivating dinosaur display will be held on December 8th. On Sunday afternoon at 4 pm, fans of T-rexs, triceratops and stegosaurs are invited to come to the square to interact with an animatronic dinosaur display for an unforgettable prehistoric adventure. Get up close and personal with our lifelike animatronic dinosaurs as they roar, move, and bring the Jurassic era to life in a festive setting.
The enchanted Christmas trail at Loughnaneane Park, Roscommon will also take place, on both the 7th and 8th of December. Loughnaneane Park will shine bright with an enchanting display of lights and Christmas characters, including a special performance of the Snow Queen’s Enchanted Realm from the captivating Enchanted Croí Theatre. Discover a picturesque pond surrounded by a fairy lights trail that offers breathtaking views of the historic landscape. The park will be transformed into a mesmerising winter wonderland with twinkling lights, snowflakes and Christmas scenes creating a truly magical ambience.
The bustling markets in Roscommon Town Square will also take place over the 7th and 8th of December. The heart of the festival beats there, in the heart of Roscommon Town Square, where over 30 markets and food stalls will showcase a delightful array of goods and products.
From beautifully crafted items to locally sourced produce and tempting festive treats, there’s something to satisfy every taste! It’s perfect for Christmas gift options and last-minute decorations. The market will also feature live entertainment, including carols, dance acts, street performances, a captivating dinosaur display, and of course, the iconic Santa’s Grotto – a vibrant and joyous experience for all.
The grand finale to it all will be the spectacular fireworks display on December 8th! As the festival draws to a close, Sunday evening will culminate in a breathtaking fireworks display behind the castle at 7 pm. Be prepared to be mesmerised by vibrant colours and sparkling lights illuminating the sky, leaving visitors filled with the spirit of the season.
Beyond the event, there is a lot to enjoy locally this Christmas.
For example, Strokestown House: Step into the transformed Strokestown House and embark on a magical festive adventure through the Palladian Mansion. The meticulously decorated mansion sets the stage for a truly immersive experience, celebrating the wonder and joy of Christmas.
There’s also the Arigna Mining Experience: Santa Underground! Prepare for a unique and unforgettable journey as Arigna Mining Experience is transformed into a festive wonderland since Saturday, December 2nd. Santa’s visit to the mining experience provides an exciting and fun-filled event for the whole family. Immerse yourself in the joyful atmosphere as you make lasting memories underground.
Shane Tiernan (Chief Executive of Roscommon County Council) announced the return of the enchanted Christmas trail event and invites you to ‘Choose Roscommon’ this Christmas.
“I am delighted to announce the return of the enchanted Christmas trail event at Loughnaneane Park, Roscommon, for its second year with a spectacular Snow Queen theme”, he said. “This is a wonderful community tourism event for the public to come out, explore, and enjoy our winter wonderland at the historic Loughnanaeane Park. I invite everyone to ‘Choose Roscommon’ this Christmas and experience the joy of the Christmas festivities taking place across the county”.
Lisa Joy (Tourism Officer for Roscommon County Council) invites everyone to embrace the festivities at the highly anticipated Roscommon Christmas Festival: “The Roscommon Christmas Festival will feature festive theatre performances, bustling markets filled with artisan food and products, and a wide range of entertainment for all ages”, she said. “A spectacular fireworks display will bring the festival to a close on Sunday.
“Please join us in celebrating the magic of Christmas in Roscommon. We can’t wait to welcome you!”
Stay connected and get the latest updates on socials: @RoscommonChristmasFestival on Facebook, @visitroscommon on Instagram, and @VRoscommon on X/Twitter.
