What’s on this weekend: Elvas, Santa and Christmas cheer

Live at the Castle Christmas Festival

Situated in the opulent surrounds of Glanmire Castle in Cork, the festival runs over the course of Saturday and Sunday, and offers something for all the family. Saturday sees celebrated singer-songwriter Damien Dempsey grace the stage, along with special guests Stephanie Rainey and Jimmy Moore (tickets €15).

If that’s not enough, Santa comes to town on Sunday, with face-painting, kids entertainment and live music completing the spectacle (free admission).

Visit TheCastleGlanmire.ie for more details.

‘Elf’ screening at Meeting House Square

Pick your favourite colour, grab yourself a cup of the world’s best coffee (but leave the chewing gum) and pull up a pew because Will Ferrell’s classic Christmas comedy is coming to the big screen, the really big screen, in Temple Bar’s Meeting House Square, Dublin this Sunday evening.

The uproariously funny story of New York’s favourite overgrown Elf is sure to attract a big crowd, so get your tickets in early (children €3, teenager/student/OAP €4, adult €5, family €12 or group rate €25).

Visit MeetingHouseSquare.ie for more details.

Christmas storytelling at Powerscourt

The Christmas theme continues at the Wicklow venue for a children's storytelling event in the Powerscourt Garden Pavilion. Popular Irish storyteller and actor Jack Lynch will be spinning many-a seasonal yarn for the kiddies. Best of all, it's totally free for anyone who wants to head along for some captivating festive tales.

Visit Powerscourt.com for more details.

Taste of Roscrea

The popular foodie fest returns to the Tipperary town for another year between the 4th to 7th of December. Sample some of the culinary delights from the artisan food stalls, learn a trick or two from renowned chef Clodagh McKenna’s cookery masterclass, or simply sit back and marvel at the spectacle of the town’s majestic Gatehouse. There’ll also be choirs, craft stalls, and the obligatory visit from Santa and his elves over the course of the event.

Visit DiscoverIreland.ie for more details.

Moher Hill Open Farm

Sitting in a scenic location overlooking Liscannor Bay in Co Clare, Moher Hill Open Farm offers 14 acres of fun and discovery for animal enthusiasts. Exhibitions include Andy the Alpaca, emus Dilly and Derry, and Podge the pot-bellied pig, and there’s also a bouncing castle, go-karts and a miniature golf course to keep visitors occupied.

Visit MoherFarm.ie for more details.