Christmas
Christmas in Tralee
Tralee Chamber in partnership with Kerry County Council is delighted to announce the return of ‘Christmas in Tralee’, which promises to be bigger and better than ever before.
This festive season, Tralee will once again come alive with light, laughter, and the magic of Christmas. From the glow of the town’s lights to the sparkle of shop windows and the sounds of music filling the streets, Christmas in Tralee is a celebration that captures the heart of our community and the spirit of Kerry.
This year’s programme brings the magic of the season to life through a series of unforgettable events, each one designed to celebrate what makes Tralee special – our people, our stories, and our shared pride in being the Christmas Capital of the Southwest. From timeless customs to new traditions, Tralee is where the old meets the new, where memories are made, and where the Christmas spirit truly shines.
With community, creativity, and care for our surroundings at the heart of every moment, Tralee invites you to experience a Christmas that’s rooted in tradition yet alive with new energy. Where shopping local, celebrating together, and making memories go hand in hand.
From the dazzling ‘Festive Flair in the Square’, the heritage-inspired ‘The Big Christmas Day Out 8th December Celebration’, the excitement of ‘Tralee Unwrapped: Shop Local. Win Local.” and the warmth of the “Island of Geese Festive Market”, this is a season made for everyone – locals and visitors alike.
So come join us as we light up the town, the county, and the season.
Here’s what’s happening across the town this festive season…
Festive Flair in The Square
Kerry County Council
The season begins with a sparkle as Tralee’s Christmas celebrations officially launch with Festive Flair in the Square. Join us in the heart of town for a dazzling evening of live music, family entertainment, and festive fun, complete with a children’s disco, stage shows, and maybe even a magical flurry of snow!
The highlight of the evening will be the official turning on of the Christmas lights, led by the Mayor of Tralee, Cllr. Terry O’Brien, with guests of honour, a moment that marks the start of a truly special festive season in our town.
Date: Saturday 29th November 2025, from 3pm
Location: The Square, Tralee
Programme:
3:00pm – 3.30pm Christmas Kiddies Disco
3.30pm – 4.00pm David Lynch
4:00pm – 5.30pm Christmas Character Walk About
4.00pm – 4.30pm The Cór Seoda Tíre Christmas Choir
4.30pm – 5.00pm High Tide
5:00pm – 5.30pm Official Christmas Lights Switch-on
5.30pm – 6.00pm High Tide & Disco
Tralee Unwrapped: Shop Local. Win Local
Sponsored by AIB
This December, we’re opening a new door every day with Tralee Unwrapped: Shop Local. Win Local. – a fun, festive way to celebrate local businesses and share in the spirit of giving.
This exciting daily social media competition, sponsored by AIB, brings a brand-new prize from one of Tralee’s wonderful local retailers, cafés, or hospitality businesses. It’s your chance to win and a reminder that when you shop local, you help our whole community shine a little brighter.
Follow along on our social media channels throughout December to see what’s waiting behind each festive door!
Date: From Monday 1st December 2025
Location: Tralee Chamber & Visit Tralee Social Media Channels
Ernie The Elf On Tour
Sponsored by Discover Kerry & Visit Tralee, Garvey’s Super Valu & in association with An Garda Síochána
Tralee’s beloved giant elf, Ernie, first introduced in Christmas in Tralee 2022, is back for another festive adventure! Ernie is on the move during the first two weeks of December, setting off from the North Pole all the way to the Kingdom to spread the magic of Christmas in Tralee.
Ernie will be making surprise visits to schools in Castleisland, Listowel and Tralee bringing festive cheer around North and West Kerry and inviting the children and their families into Tralee to join in the fun and excitement at this years Island of Geese Festive Markets. This initiative is sponsored by Discover Kerry & Visit Tralee, Garvey’s Super Valu & in association with An Garda Síochána
Christmas Movie Magic in Tralee
Step into a Winter Wonderland of festive film fun at Christmas Movie Magic in Tralee taking place in St. John’s Church of Ireland, Ashe Street. Over two special evenings, the church will be transformed into a cosy Christmas cinema experience, complete with twinkling lights, hot chocolate, and everyone’s favourite festive classics on the big screen.
Join us on Friday 5th December 2025 for Elf and Friday 12th December 2025 for The Santa Clause, with both screenings beginning at 6.00pm.
Entry is just €5 per person, with €3 supporting Christmas Dinners for those in need and €2 redeemable against a delicious hot chocolate on the night.
A heart-warming way to give back, sit back, and soak up the magic of Christmas in Tralee.
Register in advance here to guarantee your place or purchase a ticket at the door on the night.
Date: Friday 5th December & Friday 12th December 2025
Location: St. John’s Church of Ireland, Ashe Street, Tralee
Tralee’s Christmas Parade Weekend
Brought to you by Féile Thrá Lí, Seán Murphy Electrical and Kerry County Council
Tralee’s Christmas Parade Weekend will begin at 2pm on Saturday 6th December with the ‘Voices of Joy’ in The Square, sponsored by Astellas and Top Part Motor Factors. Presented by Elaine Kinsella, join us for a heartwarming afternoon of festive cheer as up to ten local school choirs share the magic of Christmas through song. With special guests, Kerry Choral Union, it promises to be a celebration of community, music and seasonal joy.
The Voices of Joy will be followed by Santa’s Winter Wonderland Parade at 6pm, a sparkling evening parade featuring twinkling lights, cheerful music, dazzling floats, dancing elves, festive characters and of course Santa himself.
On Sunday, 7th December, our second parade of the weekend will begin at 3pm followed by a Festive Funday in The Square from 3:30pm to 5pm. This Festive Funday Christmas celebration will feature a children’s disco, face painting, street performers, Santa Meet & Greet, mini funfair, children’s characters, and much more – it’s going to be snow much fun!
Date: Saturday 6th December
Event & Time: Voices of Joy in The Square 2pm
Event & Time: Santa’s Winter Wonderland Parade 6pm
Parade Route: Rock Street – Bridge Street – The Mall
Date: Sunday 7th December
Event & Time: Santa’s Winter Wonderland Parade 3pm
Parade Route: Denny Street – The Mall
Event & Time: Festive Funday in The Square 3:30pm
The Big Christmas Day Out – An 8th December Celebration
Sponsored by: The Ashe Hotel
This 8th December, Tralee proudly celebrates a beloved Kerry tradition with The Big Christmas Day Out – a joyful revival of the classic “big Christmas shopping day.” This county-wide celebration invites communities from the rural hinterland and county heritage to reconnect with Tralee for a day filled with shopping, music, and festive fun.
Sponsored by The Ashe Hotel, the town will be buzzing with excitement, including a live broadcast of Radio Kerry’s Kerry Today Show with Jerry O’Sullivan, traditional musicians, choirs, and family-friendly games in The Square. Local retailers will offer special promotions and in-store surprises, while Santa’s Grotto adds a touch of Christmas magic for the little ones.
Blending Irish heritage with festive cheer, The Big Christmas Day Out celebrates community, connection, and the timeless spirit that makes Tralee shine at Christmas.
Date: Monday 8th December 2025
Location: The Square, Tralee
Event Schedule:
10:30am – Noel Heaslip accompanied by a quartet (Traditional Christmas Music)
11:00am – Christmas Wreath and Candle Making Workshops with Live Christmas Music
12:00pm – Traditional Irish Trad Group with Dancers
12:30pm – Michaela Shannon with Christmas Carols
Island of Geese Festive Market
Sponsored by Garvey’s Supervalu
Jingle all the way to the Island of Geese for a truly magical Festive Evening Market. From Friday December 12th to Sunday December 14th, this three-day celebration will transform one of Tralee’s most iconic spaces into a Winter Wonderland filled with seasonal stalls, delicious food and drink, and live entertainment.
Enjoy choirs, carollers, buskers, festive characters, and a cosy covered seating area where you can relax with a hot chocolate or a local treat in hand. Get creative with Reed and Candle Making Workshops, or learn something new at the Sustainability Workshops delivered by Tralee Tidy Towns.
Sponsored by Garvey’s Supervalu, The Island of Geese Festive Market is a feast for the senses and a celebration of community spirit, creativity, and Christmas joy.
Mayor of Tralee, Cllr. Terry O’Brien will officially open the Island of Geese Festive Market with Garvey’s SuperValu at 5:30pm on Friday 12th December.
Date & Time:
Friday 12th December 5pm – 9pm
Saturday 13th December 5pm – 9pm
Sunday 14th December 2pm – 9pm
Location: The Island of Geese, Tralee
Tralee Voices of Christmas Eve
As the magic of Christmas draws near, gather in Tralee for a heartwarming afternoon of Christmas Eve Carols.
Local musicians will fill the air with festive favourites and timeless carols, creating a joyful atmosphere that captures the true spirit of the season. It’s the perfect way to share in the anticipation, the music, and the magic of Christmas with family, friends, and the wider Tralee community.
Wrap up warm, join in the singing, and let the spirit of Christmas surround you in the heart of Tralee.
Date & Time: Wednesday 24th December 12pm – 3pm
Location: The Mall, Tralee
New Year’s Eve Family Street Party
Sponsored by Cara Credit Union
Ring in 2026 with family and friends at Tralee’s New Year’s Eve Family Street Party on Denny Street. With Bernard Casey as MC, the evening will be packed with music, dancing, and laughter – the perfect way to say goodbye to 2025 and welcome the year ahead.
Sponsored by Cara Credit Union, the celebrations begin at 5.00pm, building up to a spectacular fireworks display at 7.00pm that will light up the Tralee sky in a burst of colour and joy.
Bring your loved ones, wrap up warm, and dance your way into the new year – the Tralee way.
Date: Wednesday 31st December 2025
Times: From 5pm (Fireworks at 7pm)
Location: Denny Street
Santa’s Grotto at Manor West Shopping Centre
Make magical memories this Christmas with a visit to Santa’s Grotto at Manor West Shopping Centre, opening from 22nd November. Located upstairs in the Food Court, children can enjoy a personal visit with Santa Claus, receive a special gift, and capture the moment with festive photo opportunities. With sparkling decorations and seasonal surprises for the whole family, it’s the perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit.
Date: 22nd November – 23rd December
Book: No need to book in advance, simply pay on arrival
Christmas Magic at Boyles of Ballyseedy
From November 29th, step into a world of festive wonder at Boyles of Ballyseedy’s Christmas Market, where you can meet Santa, Mrs Claus, and their merry helpers. Enjoy heartwarming carols, charity fundraising, and cheerful photo spots while sipping hot chocolate and savouring delicious Christmas treats. With twinkling lights, joyful music, and festive surprises around every corner, it’s the perfect way to celebrate the season. Book your visit to Santa’s Grotto now and let the Christmas magic begin! Sensory-Friendly Santa Experience also available.
Dates: 29th November – 21st December
Location: Boyle’s of Ballyseedy
Booking: Click here to book
The Festive Hall at Kerry County Museum
Step into the Magic of the Festive Hall this Christmas!
A cloak of magic envelops Kerry County Museum this Christmas, transforming its life-size medieval village set into a Winter Wonderland. A wander through this awakened Festive Hall is a joy for all, no matter what age, as explorers become immersed in the enchantment of Christmas.
Create treasured memories without the stress of queues or booking times—just step across the magic threshold and let the wonder of Christmas come alive.
Dates & Times
– Saturday and Sunday 29/30 November; 6/7, 13/14, 20/21 December 2025
– 10.00am – 6.00pm, last admission at 5.00pm
– Sensory friendly times: 10.00am – 11.00am, Saturdays and Sundays.
From 2 December the Festive Hall is open Tuesday – Friday, 2.00pm – 5.00pm, with last admission 4.00pm. (Santa and Mrs Claus will not be in attendance during these times)
Price
Adult: €10.00
Child: €12.00
Infant aged 2 and under: €2.00
Booking
Tickets can be paid at the door by means of a debit or credit card or by cash. There is no advance booking. Children must be always accompanied by a responsible adult.
NEWKD Craft Circle Craft Market
Shop local this season with NEWKD Craft Circle Craft Market on Saturday 29th November! Find unique handmade gifts, beautiful decorations – all crafted with care by local crafters. Celebrate the season while supporting our community.
Date & Time: 29th November 2025, 12pm – 6pm
Price: Free Entry
Location: Áras an Phobail Community Room, Croílár na Mistéalach, Dean’s Lane, Tralee, V92 CRW8
Siamsa’s Enchanted Christmas Winter Wonderland
Step into a world of enchantment this festive season as Siamsa Tíre transforms into an Enchanted Christmas Winter Wonderland, a magical experience for all ages. Wander through a twinkling forest with Sparkle the Snow Queen and Santa’s cheerful elves, Tinsel and Jingle, before exploring Santa’s Toy Workshop & Grotto. Children can meet Santa, post their letters in the Magic North Pole Letterbox, receive a personalised gift and treats, and capture the moment with a photo. Meanwhile, adults can enjoy complimentary tea and coffee as the whole family soaks up the festive atmosphere filled with music, decorations, and holiday cheer — the perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit and create cherished memories together.
Sensory Hours: Available for guests sensitive to sound and light.
Santa Paws: Bring your dog along for a special cuddle and photo with Santa.
For enquiries about Sensory Hours and Santa Paws visits, click here or the Box Office at 066 7123055.
Dates: Enchanted Christmas Winter Wonderland will run from 1st- 23rd December 2025.
Book: Click here
Meadowlands Festive Whiskey Experience
Join the Meadowlands Hotel and Kingdom Whiskey Tasting Events to celebrate the spirit of the season with an unforgettable evening of fine Kerry whiskeys, festive flavours, and warm hospitality. Hosted in the cosy glow of Johnny Frank’s Bar, this guided tasting with expert Neil will take you on a journey through four exceptional local whiskeys, uncovering their history, craft, and character. The experience continues with a festive three-course dinner, blending storytelling, tradition, and a touch of Christmas magic, perfect for friends, colleagues, or clients.
Date: Thursday, December 4th & Thursday, December 11th
Price: €79 per person
Book: Email events@meadowlandshotel.com or click here
Kerry Choral Union Gala Concert
Kerry Choral Union’s Gala Concert ‘Gloria – a celebration of Christmas’ takes place on Sunday December 7th at 7:30pm in St John’s Church, Castle Street, Tralee – with special guests Megan O’Neill (Soprano) and the Kerry Scotia Ensemble. Musical Director Sharon Reidy and Accompanist Aine Murray.
Join Kerry Choral Union in a very special programme of carols and other seasonal favourites to get you in the mood as the festivities commence. Come along and hear your favourite Christmas carols in the glorious setting of St John’s Church.
Date & Time: Sunday 7th December 7:30pm
Tickets: €20 on the door on the night (Under 16’s admitted free) or email in advance to kchoralunion@gmail.com
Radio Kerry Christmas Jumper Day 2025
Get ready to spread festive cheer for a great cause on Thursday, December 11th, as Radio Kerry’s 12th Annual Christmas Jumper Day returns in support of St Vincent de Paul Kerry. Over the past eleven years, this much-loved countywide event has raised nearly €200,000 to help those in need across Kerry. Everyone from schools and families to local businesses and community groups is encouraged to wear their favourite Christmas jumpers, make a donation, and share their festive photos or videos on Radio Kerry’s social media.
Date: Thursday, December 11th, 2025
Cause: In aid of St Vincent de Paul Kerry
How to Donate:
1. Directly at SVP shops across Kerry
2. By phone at 066 712 8021 (Extension 1)
3. Via Radio Kerry offices
4. Online here
Santa & Friends At Gally’s Grotto
Step into the magic of Christmas as Santa and his festive friends return to Gally’s Grotto for another unforgettable holiday experience. Families are invited to enjoy a personal visit with Santa in a beautifully crafted winter wonderland, where every good boy and girl will receive a special gift. With sparkling décor, joyful characters, and plenty of Christmas cheer, it’s the perfect festive outing for all ages.
Dates & Times:
Saturday, 13th December: 1pm–5pm & 5.30pm–8pm
Sunday, 14th December: 12pm–4pm & 4.30pm–7pm
Saturday, 20th December: 1pm–5pm & 5.30pm–8pm
Sunday, 21st December: 12pm–4pm & 4.30 pm–7pm
Price:
Children: €25
Adults: €15
Under 4’s: €10
Booking:
Pre-booking is essential, with payment required over the phone in advance. Call 066 719 2250 to book your visit.
Magic At The Ashe
Experience Magic at The Ashe this festive season on Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th December for a heartwarming family day out. During your experience enjoy a delicious festive two-course family lunch in the decorative Alfie’s Lounge, with the kids enjoying some time at the Elf Station. After your meal step into the sparkling Lottie’s space for a special meet and greet with Santa by the cosy fireplace. Children will receive a little gift from Santa and a digital family photo to capture the magic moment.
Dates: 13th & 14th December
Price: €39 per adult & €25 per child
Book: Advance booking is essential due to limited availability. Call +353 (0)66 7106300 or email celebrate@theashehotel.ie
Christmas Nativity at Church of Our Lady and St. Brendan
Experience the true spirit of Christmas at the first Annual Children’s Nativity at the Church of Our Lady and St Brendan on December 13th and 20th at 7:30pm, following the Vigil Mass. Gather with family, friends, and neighbours to enjoy a heartwarming half-hour performance of the Christmas story, beautifully brought to life by the town’s youngest stars. All are welcome to share in this special community celebration of faith, joy, and the magic of the season.
Dates: 13th & 20th December
Location: Church of Our Lady and St Brendan
Christmas Choirs In The Rose Hotel Lobby
Get into the festive spirit at The Rose Hotel this December with enchanting carol singing in the hotel lobby by the Opus 96 Chamber Choir. Enjoy a beautiful selection of Christmas classics, performed live in a warm and festive atmosphere on Sunday 14th December and Sunday 21st December from 12:45pm to 2:15pm. Whether you’re visiting for a festive lunch, meeting friends, or simply soaking up the festive cheer, it’s the perfect way to celebrate the season.
Date & Time: 14th December & 21st December, 12:45pm to 2:15pm
Location: The Rose Hotel Lobby
Tralee Community Garda Christmas Street Collection
Join the Tralee Community Garda Christmas Street Collection on Friday, December 19th, outside The Brogue Inn, Tralee, for a festive celebration that gives back. Each year, the Gardai raise funds for local charities, and this year all donations will go to the Tralee Lions Club, supporting initiatives like their “Message in a Bottle” programme, which the Community Gardai help run. Festivities kick off at 12pm with live street music from talented local musicians: Maire Begley on accordion, Michael O’Callaghan on guitar, Dave Rath on saxophone, and the dynamic duo from Heart and Soul on drums and guitar. Bring the whole family for a sing-along, festive cheer, and the chance to support a great local cause. Special thanks to Fiona O’Callaghan from The Brogue for her support in making this event possible.
Date & Time: Friday 19th December 12pm
Location: Rock Street (Outside The Brogue Inn)
Santa 5k Run Blennerville
Get ready to kick off the festive season in style at the annual Santa 5K Run from Blennerville Windmill on Sunday, 21st December at 12pm!
This much-loved community event invites families, friends, runners and walkers of all ages to don their best Santa suits and take to the scenic 5K route for a fun, festive afternoon.
All participants will receive a special Santa Finisher Medal, with trophies awarded to the 1st, 2nd and 3rd place Male and Female runners, sponsored by O’Shea’s Gala Shop.
The event promises great energy and Christmas cheer, with music by DJ Thomas, a lively Best Dressed Santa Competition, and festive refreshments afterwards in Quane’s.
Adults: €20 & Kids: €10
Click here to register
Date & Time: Sunday 21st December 2025 at 12pm
Location: Blennerville Windmill
Free Parking for Christmas
Enjoy complimentary parking in Tralee this festive season, courtesy of Kerry County Council!
From Friday, December 5, 2025, to Sunday, January 4, 2026, take advantage of free parking at Tralee Public Car Parks between 9:30am and 2:00pm daily. Please note that a maximum stay of 2 hours applies.
Spread the word and make the most of this festive gesture!
Have Yourself An Eco-Friendly Christmas
This year’s Christmas in Tralee programme has been designed with sustainability at its heart. Families are encouraged to shop local, support homegrown businesses, and help reduce their carbon impact through local spending. Visitors are also invited to travel sustainably by using TFI Local Link services, walking, or cycling where possible. Across the programme, organisers have prioritised local suppliers, reusable infrastructure, and reduced-waste practices to ensure a greener, community-led Christmas for all.
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS
Tralee Chamber would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to our partners Kerry County Council and all the generous sponsors who make Christmas in Tralee 2025 possible.
A special thank you to Bus Éireann, our Digital Sponsor, for helping us share the magic of the season, and to AIB, Cara Credit Union, Garvey’s SuperValu, and The Ashe Hotel for their invaluable support of events, activities, and community celebrations across the town.
Your support ensures that Tralee shines a little brighter this festive season and allows us all to come together to create memories, spread joy, and celebrate the spirit of Christmas.
