Celebrate Christmas 2025 in North Mayo and West Sligo: Events You Don’t Want to Miss
The festive season is here, and North Mayo and West Sligo are brimming with events to get you into the Christmas spirit! Whether you’re seeking craft markets, carols by candlelight, family pantos, or magical Santa experiences, there’s something for everyone. Whilst a number of events, including the annual Santa Polar Express Train and the Santa Experience at Oweninny Visitor Centre have unfortunately sold out very quickly, luckily for us there are a host of other fantastic festive local events!
We’ll be updating this blog as new events come in. If you’re hosting a festive event, be sure to send us the details to have it included.
Moy Singers – Carols by Candlelight
Date: Thursday 28th November
Location: Great National Hotel, Ballina
Time: 8:00 PM
Start your Christmas season in style with the Moy Singers’ annual Carols by Candlelight concert, taking place at the Great National Hotel, Ballina, on Thursday, November 28th, at 8:00 PM. Enjoy an evening of beautiful festive music and community spirit. Tickets are priced at €20 and are available from choir members, Eventbrite, the Great National Hotel, and the Ballina Tourist Office. A raffle will also take place on the night, with proceeds benefiting Craoibhín Ballina.
Santa Paws Christmas at The Ocean Sands
Date: Saturday 29th November & Saturday 20th December
Location: Ocean Sands Hotel, Enniscrone
Time: 11am – 2pm (10 min slots)
You can celebrate the season with your four-legged family member at the Santa Paws event, hosted at the Ocean Sands Hotel in partnership with the NSPCA. This unique festive experience is taking place on both Saturday, November 29th, and Saturday, December 20th, between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, with limited 10-minute slots available for booking. Each slot includes a donation to the NSPCA, a special doggy treat for your pet, and complimentary coffee and cookies for up to six people, ensuring a fun and memorable outing for the whole family.
Killala Christmas Market & Santa’s Grotto
Date: Saturday 29th November
Location: Killala Community Centre
Time: 4pm – 6:30pm
Get into the festive spirit at the Killala Christmas Market & Santa’s Grotto on November 29th. The event takes place at the Killala Community Centre from 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM, offering a wonderful opportunity for holiday shopping and for children to visit Santa. Those interested in booking a stall for the market should contact Avril directly on 0876406464.
Father Peyton Centre Jingle and Mingle Christmas Fair in Attymass
Date: Saturday 29th November
Location: Father Peyton Centre, Attymass
Time: 12pm – 6 pm
You are invited to Celebrate the Spirit of Christmas at the Father Peyton Centre’s Jingle and Mingle Christmas Fair on Saturday, November 29th, running from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM. This joyful community day promises a festive atmosphere complete with heartwarming Christmas carols and live music. Visitors can browse a variety of unique gifts from local crafters, making it an ideal stop for Christmas shopping, while also enjoying homemade baking, festive treats, and an arts and crafts camp open to all ages. Attendees are encouraged to wear their Christmas jumper and join in the true community spirit for a day not to be missed.
Ocean Sands Christmas Market
Date: Sunday 30th November
Location: Ocean Sands Hotel, Enniscrone
Time: 11am – 4pm
The beloved Ocean Sands Christmas Market is set to return on Sunday, November 30th, running from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. This wonderful community event will kick off the Christmas season by filling the hotel lobby and Atlantic Room with a wide array of local crafts, handmade gifts, festive treats, and artisan wares. Visitors are invited to browse a beautiful selection of unique, locally made treasures in a warm and welcoming festive atmosphere, while stallholders interested in participating can secure a spot for a prepaid fee of €10.
Bonniconlon ICA Charity Christmas Fair
Date: Sunday 30th November
Location: Grove Hall, Bonniconlon
Time: 12pm – 5pm
The Bonniconlon ICA will host their annual Christmas Market in Bonniconlon on Sunday, November 30th, running from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM. This community market offers a great opportunity to find unique festive items, with all proceeds raised from the event going to support St. Dymphna’s School. Interested stallholders are invited to book a space for the day by calling 0871195104 or emailing [email protected].
Kiltane Christmas Market
Date: Sunday 30th November
Location: Geesala Community Centre
Time: From 12pm
Get ready for a day full of Christmas cheer at the Kiltane Christmas Market.
Enjoy a festive afternoon packed with local crafts, gifts, treats, and seasonal goodies — our stalls are now completely full. The café will be open, serving up warm drinks and tasty bites, and Santa himself will be making a special visit on the day.
All proceeds from the market will go towards supporting the Mangan family, Glencullen.
Come along, soak up the festive atmosphere, and help make this a magical community day to remember.
Festive Market & Dining at The Lantern Chinese, Ballina
Date: Saturday 30th November & Saturday 6th December
Location: The Lantern Chinese, Ballina
Time: Brunch 12pm–5pm | Dinner from 5pm onwards
Join The Lantern Chinese in Ballina for a joyful festive outing with family and friends.
Browse a lovingly curated Christmas Market featuring unique Irish and Chinese gifts, artisan snacks, organic skincare, handmade crafts, Asian treats, and more. Visitors can also enjoy festive photo opportunities and savour delicious food and drinks in the beautiful dining room overlooking the River Moy. A perfect way to shop local, relax, and embrace the festive season.
Festive Afternoon Tea by the Sea
Date: Monday 1st December – Saturday 3rd January (excluding 23rd -28th December)
Location: Ocean Sands Hotel
Time: 1pm – 3pm
The Ocean Sands Hotel invites guests to enjoy the most wonderful time of the You can enjoy the most wonderful time of the year with a seasonal Festive Afternoon Tea at the Ocean Sands Hotel, available from December 1st. Served Monday to Saturday between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM, guests can expect an array of Christmas flavours and comforting spices in a delightfully cosy atmosphere while relaxing by the sea, and are welcome to linger as long as they like. This perfect festive treat for friends, family, or as a gift experience costs €29.95 per person, or €34.95 with bubbles, with gluten-free options also available on request.
Santa at Shore Farm Pony Therapy
Date: Saturday 6th & Sunday 7th December 2025
Location: Shore Farm Pony Therapy
Time: Throughout the day
Enjoy a magical festive experience with a visit to Santa’s grotto at Shore Farm Pony Therapy. Each child will receive a pony ride, have the chance to write and post their letter to Santa, and take part in Christmas crafting. Children can also create their own special wish and hang it on the wishing tree, and each will receive a selection box to take home. A raffle will take place in aid of Cancer Care West.
Foxford Crafts Fair
Date: Friday 5th , Saturday 6th & Sunday 7th December
Location: Foxford Leisure Centre
Time: Fri – 12pm – 7pm, Sat 10am – 6pm & Sun 12pm – 6pm
The annual Foxford Crafts Fair will return to the Foxford Leisure Centre on December 5th, 6th, and 7th. The fair will feature a huge selection of Irish-made handcrafted gifts, including wood craft, jewellery, glassworks, knitting, pottery, food, and much more, all available for purchase over the weekend.
Belmullet Christmas Market
Date: Saturday 6th December
Location: Civic Centre Grounds, Belmullet
Time: TBC
The Belmullet Christmas Market is returning to the Grounds of the Belmullet Civic Centre, offering a charming festive experience. The market will feature a wide selection of handmade crafts, festive decorations, delicious treats, and artisan food products, making it the perfect stop for unique Christmas shopping. For more information regarding the market, you can contact the organisers by calling 097-81079.
Five Course Festive Feast & Champage Reception
Date: Saturday 6th December
Location: The Great National Hotel, Ballina
Time: 7pm
Enjoy a Festive Feast on Friday, December 6th, 2025, at The Great National Hotel, Ballina. This elegant evening is a vital fundraiser for AIRC, supporting children with additional needs in Mayo. The event features a glamorous Champagne Reception followed by a luxurious 5-Course Meal. Guests will be entertained by Live Music from Rejig, followed by a set from DJ Tommy Elliot, with plenty of Surprises on the night and a special Raffle to raise funds for the charity. Tickets are €55 PER TICKET (Over 18s only); Please contact Airc on 087-342-7145 or Louise on 087-679-9131 for tickets & group bookings.
OutWest Christmas Party Night at the Diamond Coast Hotel
Date: Saturday 6th December
Location: Diamond Coast Hotel, Enniscrone
Time: 7.30pm
Come along and join OutWest for their festive Christmas party in Enniscrone! Taking place on Saturday 6th December at the Diamond Coast Hotel, Enniscrone, this is a night not to be missed. You can easily grab your tickets through OutWest’s Eventbrite Page
Planning to stay the night? Just give the hotel a call and book direct. Tickets are limited, so don’t miss out—be sure to book early!
Swinford Indoor Christmas Market
Date: Saturday 6th & Sunday 7th December
Location: Cultural Centre, Swinford
Time: 10:30am – 4pm
The Swinford 2025 Christmas Market is returning as “Mayo’s Friendliest Market” on Saturday, December 6th, and Sunday, December 7th. Hosted at the Cultural Centre (F12WK83), the market will be open daily from 10:30 AM to 4:00 PM, offering a wide selection of craft gifts, seasonal foods, and a festive cafe. Visitors can also enjoy the atmosphere and the excitement of a “Best Decorated Stall Competition,” with a chance to win a hamper filled with market products.
Christmas Market in Ballycastle
Date: Sunday 7th December
Location: Stella Maris Shore House, Ballycastle
Time: 11am – 4pm
Make a festive trip to Ballycastle to enjoy some seasonal shopping hours spent at the Stella Maris Shore House Christmas Market, where you can find the perfect gift from a variety of Mayo makers and creators. To enhance the experience, Stella Maris will be offering mulled wine, apple punch, and a selection of delicious treats on the day. Vendors and craftsperson’s interested in booking a stall for the market should get in touch with Stella Maris Shore House directly by calling 085 169 1696 or emailing [email protected].
SOLAS Christmas Market
Date: Sunday 7th December
Location: SOLAS Visitor Centre, Eachléim
Time: 12pm – 4pm
The SOLAS Christmas Market is taking place on Sunday, December 7th, from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM. This festive market provides a wonderful opportunity to browse a range of local crafts, festive treats, and unique gifts perfect for the holiday season. To enquire about booking a table to sell goods at the market, please contact the organizers by calling 09765035 or emailing [email protected].
Christmas Tree Crafts at the National Museum of Ireland
Date: Sunday 7th & Sunday 14th December
Location: National Museum of Ireland – Turlough Park
Time: 1pm – 4pm
Head to the National Museum of Ireland – Turlough Park, to create your own unique Christmas tree decoration during an informal, drop-in crafting session. This free activity takes place over two Sunday afternoons on December 7th and 14th, 2025, between 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM, with each session lasting approximately 20 minutes. No booking is required for this free event, but as places may be limited during busier periods, registration upon arrival at the Museum is essential, and places will be allocated on a first-come basis.
Turlough Park Christmas Market
Date: Sunday 7th & Sunday 14th December
Location: National Museum of Ireland – Turlough Park
Time: 1pm – 5pm
Find unique and special gifts at the Christmas Market taking place in the Courtyard of Turlough Park House over two Sunday afternoons on December 7th and 14th, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Visitors can browse a range of beautiful crafts from local and regional makers and artists, including candles, calligraphy, jewellery, art, cards, toys, and textiles
Live Crib at Turlough House
Date: Sunday 7th & Sunday 14th December
Location: National Museum of Ireland – Turlough Park
Time: 1pm – 5pm
Come along to the Courtyard of Turlough Park House on Sunday, December 7th, and December 14th, 2025, between 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM, to meet some of the farm animals associated with the nativity and other Christmas traditions. The team from Kiltimagh Pet Farm will be on hand with their four-legged friends, such as sheep, goats, cows, and donkeys, to help visitors learn about the animals that formed an important part of the Christmas story. This unique display is held alongside the Christmas Market, crafting activities, and festive storytelling performances also taking place in the Courtyard on both afternoons.
Christmas Decoration Hunt
Date: Sunday 7th to 24th December
Location: National Museum of Ireland – Turlough Park
Time: Museum Opening Hours
Help the National Museum of Ireland – Country Life find their lost Christmas decorations with a fun and festive self-guided treasure hunt through the exhibition galleries. Visitors can drop in during Museum opening hours, pick up an activity sheet at Reception, and use the clues to find 12 decorations hidden across three floors of the museum. This free indoor trail is suitable for children aged five years plus (adult guidance required). Upon completion, participants can return to Reception to check their answers and enter a free competition to win a special Christmas goodie hamper.
Festive Storytelling
Date: Sunday 7th & Sunday 14th December
Location: National Museum of Ireland – Turlough Park
Time: 1:30pm, 2:30pm & 3:30pm
Gather at the National Museum of Ireland – Country Life, Turlough Park, to feel the magic of Christmas come alive with Festive Storytelling from Fiona Dowling. This free family event features traditional and contemporary Christmas tales from around the world, taking place over two Sunday afternoons on December 7th and 14th, 2025. There are three sessions available each day, starting at 1:30 PM, 2:30 PM, and 3:30 PM. This activity is suitable for families with children aged 5+, and while no advance booking is required, spaces are limited and allocated on a first-come basis with registration at the Museum Reception on the day.
Louisburgh Voices Christmas Concert
Date: Wednesday 10th December
Location: Micheael Davitt Museum, Straide
Time: 7pm
Celebrate the festive season with a special Christmas Concert at the Michael Davitt Museum in Straide. Louisburgh Voices Christmas Concert, featuring the Louisburgh Voices choir and Students from Louisburgh Music School, will take place on Wednesday, 10th December 2025 at 7:00 PM. Admission is free, though kind donations made at the door will go directly to supporting the Michael Davitt Museum.
Ballina Christmas Market
Date: Friday 12th, Saturday 13th & Sunday 14th December
Location: Ballina Town Centre
Time: TBC
Ballina is set to sparkle this festive season as the much-loved Ballina Christmas Market returns on December 12th, 13th, and 14th, 2025. Organised by the voluntary “Let There Be Light” Committee, this eagerly anticipated event promises to bring festive magic, local crafts, food, music, and community cheer to the heart of the town. The market will feature a wide range of stalls celebrating local talent and festive fare, including arts and crafts retailers offering handcrafted gifts and unique items, food retail stalls showcasing quality products, and catering stalls providing hot and cold food for visitors to enjoy on-site, ensuring a true festive atmosphere.
Christmas Elf Lunch & Santa’s Grotto
Date: Sunday 14th December
Location: Ocean Sands Hotel
Time: 12:30pm – 5pm
You can step into a magical Christmas Village at the Ocean Sands Hotel on Sunday, December 14th, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM, which is packed with craft stalls, festive food, and free children’s activities and entertainment, including arts, crafts, and games hosted by the Elves. For a special treat, the hugely popular Elf Lunch includes a two-course festive meal followed by a complimentary visit to Santa by the Sea in his North Pole Grotto, complete with a special gift for every child. Lunch sittings run every 30 minutes from 12:30 PM to 5:00 PM
Santa By The Sea
Date: Thursday 18th, Friday 19th & Saturday 20th December
Location: Diamond Cost Hotel, Enniscrone
Time: Thu 5pm | Fri 5pm & 7pm | Sat 1pm, 3pm & 5pm
Experience the magic of Christmas by the sea at the Diamond Coast Hotel, Enniscrone, with the festive Santa by the Sea Experience running from Thursday, December 18th, to Saturday, December 20th. This family event is filled with sparkle, fun, and unforgettable memories, with each ticket including a magical visit to Santa Claus, access to fun-filled Christmas Games, and a festive Christmas Train Ride. Delicious seasonal food stands will also be available for separate purchases, and tickets are priced at €25 for children and €5 for adults.
Centre Stage Gala Christmas Concert in Ballina
Date: Saturday 20th December
Location: Great National Hotel Ballina
Time: To be confirmed
Join Centre Stage Vocal Academy as they celebrate 25 magical years of teaching with a spectacular Gala Christmas Concert at the Great National Hotel Ballina. Enjoy an evening filled with festive performances, music, and memories as students past and present take to the stage to mark this incredible milestone. Save the date and come celebrate the joy, talent, and spirit of Christmas with Centre Stage!
Christmas Carols at Turlough House
Date: Sunday 21st December
Location: National Museum of Ireland – Turlough Park
Time: 1pm Onwards
Enjoy an atmospheric afternoon of Christmas carols and choral pieces at the National Museum of Ireland – Turlough Park, on Sunday, December 21st, 2025. This firm festive favourite features performances by two of the region’s leading groups: the Mayo Male Voice Choir, directed by Deirdre Lee, and the Cill Aodain Choral Society, directed by Finola Higgins-Cosgrove. Visitors can relax and enjoy a repertoire of both traditional and contemporary Christmas music performed in the unique setting of the Museum’s exhibition galleries.
Previous Events
Countdown to Christmas at the Jackie Clarke
Date: Saturday 23rd November
Location: Jackie Clarke Collection, Ballina
Time: 1pm – 5pm
The Jackie Clarke Collection is delighted to present its Countdown to Christmas Event 2025, in partnership with the Ballina Costume Company, Mayo Artsquad Community Arts, art students from Moyne College, the Let There Be Light Committee, and Ballina’s Crafters.
The Countdown to Christmas event at the Jackie Clarke Collection will feature a special Meet & Greet with Mrs. Claus, including a sensory hour from 1pm to 2pm in partnership with Ballina Autism Friendly Town.
Followed by an open session until 4.30pm. Families can take part in the Ballina Town Christmas Treasure Hunt from 2pm to 4pm, enjoy live festive music from Pat’s Country Roadshow, and meet Buddy the Elf in the courtyard for photos and surprises. At 4.45pm, the magical Sleeping Winter Garden will be unveiled, along with Ballina’s first-ever 9ft Knitmas Tree, beautifully crafted from recycled wool by the Ballina Crafters.
Admission to the JCC event is free.
The afternoon wraps up as visitors follow Santa’s trail from Pearse Street to Garden Street, leading to the official turning on of the town’s Christmas Lights at 5pm.
Christmas Light Switch on and Santa Visit
Date: Sunday November 23rd
Location: Ballina Town Centre
Time: 2pm – 6pm
The annual Ballina Christmas Lights Switch-On and Santa’s Arrival is set to take place on Sunday November 23rd, transforming Ballina Town Centre into a festive hub. The event, which is being run in conjunction with the Jackie Clarke Collection, promises a full day of family entertainment, music, and celebrations. The excitement will build throughout the day, culminating in the highly anticipated arrival of Santa Claus and the official switch-on of the spectacular Ballina Christmas lights by the main man from the North Pole and none other than , with special guest Garron Noone and his Delicious Christmas, marking the start of the holiday season.
