Christmas in Cork

Now that Christmas is right around the corner I decided to share my favourite festive things to do in Cork. There are loads of things to do like going to Fota and see their Winter Wonderland or going to Glow in Bishop Lucey Park but to be honest they are quite children orientated.  

The things that I am sharing with you today are free or relatively inexpensive to do so they're perfect for any student budget. 

Ice Skating 

This is a classic winter staple in Cork. Although the ice rink is in Mahon, there are plenty of buses to get to it and you can always do your Christmas shopping in Mahon Point afterwards. The tickets are quite expensive if you buy them on the day but they're cheaper online and during off peak times so I recommend doing that. I went with my friends a few weeks ago and we had such a laugh. I highly suggest getting a group of friends together and attempting to ice skate together.

Christmas Lights

Grab your cosiest coat and bobble hat and head out to admire the Christmas lights. Stroll around town with someone or even by yourself and take some photos of all of the lights. I love the ones on Oliver Plunkett street this year. You also have to take a peek at the Brown Thomas christmas windows. It's a really simple thing to do but it's so lovely strolling aimlessly staring up at the twinkling and flashing lights. Top this off with the next activity to keep you warm!

Festive Drinks

This goes great with strolling around looking at the lights but they are also fab by themselves. Hit up Costa, Starbucks or my personal fave O'Conails and pick up your favourite festive drink. Whether that be a Gingerbread Latte or a White Hot Chocolate, treat yourself to one to keep you warm (and let's be honest it would make a great Instagram with the twinkling Christmas lights in the background!)

12 Pubs Of Christmas 

This is the festive drinks for over 18's. I'm planning to do this with my group of friends next weekend and I cant wait. Basically you visit 12 pubs with a  different rule in each pub so it could be no phones or having to speak in Irish or not being able to use the letter 'e' etc etc. This of course has to be accompanied by the ugliest of Christmas jumpers. Even if you just go for a drink with your friends and ye all wear Christmas jumpers that's a nice festive thing to do too.  

Christmas Markets

Don't be an ejeet like me and try to find these during the week, they're on Grand Parade on Friday, Saturday and Sunday (thanks for the heads up Orlaith). Every year there are gorgeous Christmas stalls in town ranging from food to candles to homemade gifts. I always love strolling around the markets with my brother and picking up some food from there. There's always a lovely atmosphere up by the ferris wheel during this time of year. 

All of these things are still going on after Christmas and into the New Year so there's no rush to enjoy the festivities. Do you have any other suggestions for festive things to do in Cork? Let me know in the comments.

Ailbhe x