Save the Date: ‘Christmas in Cork’ Programme To Be Revealed Soon
Ferris Wheel (photo Darragh Kane)
Christmas Parade, festive markets, family entertainment, the return of the Ferris wheel + much more will bring seasonal cheer to Cork City
Save the dates! Cork City will welcome the festive season with the return of Christmas in Cork, bringing seasonal food, shopping, live entertainment and family fun to the city centre from 15 November to 31 December. The full programme of events will be announced soon, in the meantime, be sure to pencil these dates in your calendar:
The Festive fun begins with the annual Christmas Parade on Sunday, 15 November, from 6.30pm to 7.30pm, bringing Christmas characters, sparkles, and entertainment to the city streets, along with a very special visit from Santa Claus himself to switch on Cork’s Christmas lights and officially start the celebrations in the city.
The Christmas Markets at Bishop Lucey Park will offer festive food, artisan gifts and local products on selected dates from 20 November to 22 December. The Ferris Wheel will also return to the Grand Parade, operating on selected dates from 27 November to 31 December, excluding Christmas Day.
Families can look forward to the Family Festive Hub at Counting House Plaza, with creative workshops, circus skills, kids’ discos, interactive games, and festive entertainment. Live music and Christmas choirs will add to the seasonal atmosphere throughout the city.
Lord Mayor of Cork Cllr Damian Boylan looks forward to the festivities saying:
“There’s something special about Cork at Christmas. The city comes alive, people come together, and there’s a fantastic sense of community. Christmas in Cork is all about enjoying the festive season, making memories with family and friends, and supporting our local businesses, artists, and craftspeople who make our city what it is.
I’m looking forward to seeing everyone out enjoying the celebrations and soaking up the Christmas spirit. Nollaig Shona dhaoibh!”
Whether meeting friends, shopping for Christmas gifts or planning a family day out, Christmas in Cork will offer plenty of opportunities to enjoy the festive spirit in the heart of the city.
Further details on the programme will be announced in the coming weeks, along with some new special surprises for the good boys and girls of Cork. Follow Christmas in Cork on social media for updates.
Christmas in Cork 2026 – key dates for your diary:
- 15 November: Christmas Parade
- 20 November: Opening of Christmas Markets, Bishop Lucey Park
- 27 November: Opening of the Ferris Wheel, Grand Parade
- 28 November: Opening of Family Festive Hub at the Counting House Plaza
#ChristmasInCork #NollaigIgCorcaigh