Here’s everything you need to know about the new Mardyke Christmas Market
Just hear those sleigh bells jingling…
Mariah Carey has officially begun to thaw out, Michael Bublé is warming up his vocal chords and it’s the beginning of November, which means we are in full pre-preparation mode for the Christmas season.
This is the stage where we gather information, like really sophisticated mulled-wine-drinking spies.
Thanks to the Mardyke Christmas Market, making its debut this year, we already have a few things crossed off our list.
The Santa visit
First up, there’s a Santa’s Grotto for the all-important smallies who will of course be extra excited to meet Mr. Claus this year (he kept himself in isolation last year to avoid any sniffles).
Families will make their way through a magical walkway, stopping by Santa’s Vintage Sleigh Mobile for a selfie before moving on to Santa’s cabin for a one-on-one visit. There will be an age-appropriate gift for each visitor to Santa’s Grotto and everyone will get a printed photograph for keepsake. Kids and adults are encouraged to bring their Santa letter with them this year and he will bring it, express, to the North Pole.
Tickets for Santa’s grotto range from €6-€19, depending on the age of your child, and are on sale now on their booking portal.
The food
If you’re hungry after all of that excitement, market merrymakers can grab a munch from the likes of The Huck Truck, Grilly McGrill Grill, Bad Boys BBQ, The Candied Pig Pic ‘n’ Mix and Top Fries (with more to be announced).
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The ambiance
Die-hard Christmas lovers will be delighted to hear that the Mardyke Market is hosting carol singers and choirs who will perform a range of choral and Christmas tunes.
If that wasn’t enough, there will also be live music on Saturdays and Sundays for all to enjoy.
The Christmas trees
Christmas tree shopping will be available from November 18th, so you’ll have plenty of time to snag your perfect crann before Santa’s Grotto opens on Sunday, November 20th.
The Mardyke Market has also teamed up with Cork Penney Dinners as their charity partner this year so you’ll get to contribute to some of Cork’s vital homeless services while enjoying your festive treats and browsing the stalls.
They are looking for more food and crafts stalls to join them over the festive season so make sure to contact them if you want to partake.
