DUBLIN

Christmas Lights Switch On Parade: Christmas is coming to the capital this Sunday when two Christmas parades will meander through the city to meet as one million lights illuminate the way. Head to O’Connell Street where the 40-foot Christmas tree will light up to celebrate the start of the festive season.

Suits: the whole family. Time: 5.30pm. Tickets: free of charge. Find out more here.

My Place In Space: Ever wondered how we smashed the atom or how space dust is really made? Well lucky for you, Doctor Niamh Shaw is coming to the Ark this Sunday with two family friendly interactive events for mini space-agers.

Suits: 5 years +. Time: 2 and 4pm. Tickets: Free but booking is essential. Find out more here.

Survival: Staying Warm: Join OWLS at Turvey Park, Donabate this Saturday where children can learn the art of survival using natural materials before being rewarded with campfire-toasted marshmallows.

Suits: 5-8 years. Time: 10-11.30am. Tickets: Free. Find out more by emailing Mouse at info@owls.ie.
https://www.facebook.com/TheArkDublin/videos/10154857827676493/

KILDARE

Mad Scientist Workshop: Budding scientists should head to the Riverbank Arts Centre this Saturday where they’ll have the opportunity to invent their own game controllers and digital drawing tools, using objects like carrots, play-dough, coins, even their own bodies. Participants must bring a laptop.

Suits: 8-12 years. Time: 10am. Tickets: €5. Find out more here.

CORK

Ballymaloe Craft Fair: Come over all festive and wholesome this weekend at the Ballymaloe Grainstore for one of the best craft markets in the country. With food stores galore and lots to keep the kiddos occupied, this is a great day out – and you’re guaranteed to leave well fed.

Suits: the whole family. Time: 10am-6pm. Tickets: €3 per adult, children under 16 go free. Find out more here.

WATERFORD

Winterval: Hurrah for Winterval, the citywide Christmas extravaganza! It’s opening this weekend and there are loads of events on for the whole family. There are two winter markets, Santa’s Wonderland and lots of brilliant storytelling sessions from now all the way up to the big day.

Suits: the whole family. Time: All weekend. Tickets: Mostly free. Find out more here.

WICKLOW

Me and The Moon – Art Workshops For Children: David Fortune, the illustrator behind The Speks is teaching children how to draw this Saturday at the Mermaid Arts Centre. This is a brilliant opportunity for your little Picassos to learn from someone who speaks their language.

Suits: 4 years +. Time: 12 and 2pm. Tickets: €8. Find out more here.

Want to win a night of luxury in the sumptuous surrounds of Clontarf Castle Hotel? Enter here. Don’t forget to like TheJournal.ie’s Family Magazine on Facebook and Twitter too!