After the turkey’s gone and the tin of chocolates has just the unpopular ones left, it might be time to shake off the Christmas cobwebs! Mayo North is bursting with festive outdoor activities to help you embrace the bracing December air.
Christmas Swims
Christmas Day, Stephen’s Day and New Year’s Day dips have become more and more popular over the last few years. If you fancy braving the icy cold waters of the Atlantic or Lough Conn, here are some happening in Mayo North and surrounds.
- Christmas Day Swim, Kilcummin Pier
Time to be confirmed. See Kilcummin Swimming Facebook page for more details here and details of all swims over festive season, this experienced swimming group meet regularly at the pier and all swimmers are welcome to join.
- St Stephens Day Charity Dip, Lough Conn, Crossmolina 1pm
This event is completely free and there is no entry charge. Donations are welcome on the day. Sponsorship cards are also available in local businesses throughout Crossmolina. The total raised from last year’s dip was €12,310.63 and it was donated to Ballina Family Resource Centre to fund anyone needing counselling in the North Mayo area. This year all monies donated will be shared between: Crossmolina Meals on Wheels, Inis Aoibhinn Cancer Care West and Mayo Suicide Bereavement Liaison Services.
Both entrances to lough Conn in Crossmolina will be opened on the day: Ballina Road and Lake Road.
Any other questions please contact Mulhern’s Applegreen Filling Station and Gala shop Crossmolina or see more here.
- Noel Reilly St Stephens Day dip, Belmullet Tidal Pool , 12pm
The annual Noel Reilly St. Stephens Day Dip takes place at Belmullet Tidal Pool at 12pm.
For over a decade, this St Stephen’s Day Dip has been bringing dippers and swimmers and onlookers together to support Cancer Care West. Now in its 12th year, this event continues to inspire dippers of all ages and abilities to brave the waters and to make a difference in the lives of those affected by cancer. For all Details see here.
- Enniscrone Pier New Years Day Charity dip: details TBC
An extremely popular and well attended charity event, all details will be found here . The pier in Enniscrone is always a good spot for a swim and you will always find a core group of swimmers here , also open throughout the Christmas season is West Coast Sauna who are located on the Pier. So, if you fancy warming up after your cold dip or simply enjoying a sauna experience you can message on what’s app West Coast Sauna 086 363 5074 . Find them here.
Outdoor Events
- Goal Mile, Belleek Woods, Ballina: Christmas Day 11am
It’s that time of the year again! The Ballina GOAL Mile will take place again on Christmas morning in Belleek Woods from 11am – 12.30pm. One of Ireland’s most popular annual events, the GOAL Mile is a Christmas tradition for thousands of families. Walk, run or crawl on Christmas day and make a donation to support Goal.
Further details and how to register can be found here.
- Christmas Paddle, The Quay, Ballina : St. Stephens Day 2pm.
Back this year is the Big Christmas Charity Paddle in aid of Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation.
Ballina water sports groups want to see you and hundreds of other kayakers, SUP, dragon boaters and rowers on the water this Christmas. One sure way of dusting off the Christmas cobwebs and having fun whilst fundraising for a very worthy cause.
More details and information on how to participate and donate to follow. Details here
- New Year’s Day Festive Run, Ballycastle, Co. Mayo 12pm
Start 2025 on the right foot with Ballycastle Athletics Club. Join them for a fun and festive run to kick off the new year! Put on your Santa hat and be part of this joyful celebration!
The event start at 12pm on New Years Day is Ballycastle Community Hall. Please note that this event is subject to suitable weather conditions. Further details here.
- Start 2025 the Right Way with Somewhere by Beahatha Yoga
Begin the new year with a rejuvenating blend of yoga, sauna, and an invigorating ocean swim, designed to nurture your mind, body, and spirit. This exclusive event on January 1st offers a chance to ground yourself for the year ahead with yoga suitable for all levels, detoxify and recharge in a relaxing sauna, and boost your circulation with a refreshing ocean dip at Belmullet Tidal Pool. Spaces are limited, so early booking is essential. Contact Beata on WhatsApp at 085 127 8305 for more details and to secure your spot.
Along with Christmas swims , paddles and runs the beaches of North Mayo and West Sligo are fantastic places to walk to get your quota of fresh air, Ross C.B.I Beach in Killala and Enniscrone Beach (Sligo) are two popular spots for Christmas walks. Belleek Woods, Drummin Wood Trail and Blanemore Forest walks are all great if you fancy walking amongst the trees. If you are looking for a comprehensive guide of walks and trails in North mayo you can read about them here on our website.
Finally, if you can’t be convinced to brave any outside activities and would like a gentle way to move through Christmas and the new year Roots Wellness in Ballina has a free ‘Christmas Yoga at Home’ library of videos, which you can sign up to by visiting their Instagram page or website .
All events above are weather dependent and subject to change. Please contact event organisers for most up to date information. Wishing you and yours a happy and healthy Christmas and a fulfilled New Year.