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SEARCH for the perfect gift at Gifted – The Contemporary Craft and Design Fair held at the RDS Dublin from 4 to 8 December. Gifted is aimed at those interested in craft, design, unique independent brands and artisan food producers. Fresh from an event in Cork last week, the fair will feature a sustainable pop-up curated by Jo Linehan, founder of the Futurist podcast. It will showcase some of Ireland’s sustainable fashion, beauty and homeware brands. Gifted will also host a celebration of Irish books with daily signings by leading Irish authors and the Christmas Food Emporium. For more information and booking see www.giftedfair.ie.
VISIT the magnificent surroundings of Duckett’s Grove Historic House and Walled Gardens as they are transformed into Carlow’s very own winter wonderland to host the popular Christmas Food and Craft Fair on 8 December. Find the ideal Christmas present for loved ones in the form of jewellery, knitwear, art, embroidery, Christmas cards and even decorations. Browse through the locally produced Christmas wreaths and plants. Take in the sights and smells of the cakes, puddings, pies, tarts, jams, chutneys, cheese, chocolate and more. For more information see www.carlowtourism.com.
WANDER the Wicklow Christmas Market in the Abbey Grounds until 15 December. There will be a selection of local artisan foods, decorations, gifts, workshops and a chance to visit Santa at the Santa Express Experience where Oribel the elf will transport you on a magical journey aboard the Santa express train to Santa’s Wonderland. There will be music and entertainment, along with a family funfair to keep you excited for Christmas. Meet and mingle with alpacas at the market too. It is accessible by both car and public transport and admission is free. For more information see www.wicklowchristmasmarket.com.
EXPERIENCE the inaugural Strokestown Christmas Market on Bawn Street, running weekends until 15 December. The market will take place from 2-6pm, Friday to Sunday, for all your festive fun and last minute gift pick ups. There will be gifts, food, crafts, carols and music along with children’s activities and more to keep the whole family entertained. Admission to the market is free. While you’re there, soak in what the historic market town has to offer and visit the Irish Famine Museum, Strokestown Park House and the range of customer-oriented shops and bars. For more information see www.strokestown.ie.
TASTE a range of foods at the Lough Ree Heartlands Christmas Food Extravaganza on 8 December in Lanesborough, Co Longford. The venue for the night is The Yacht Food and Drink Emporium. There will be 20 food stalls who are all local providers from Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands. Santa will be in the turf shed, there will be face painting for the young ones, mulled wine for the adults, a draw on the night for local charities, a barbecue nearby and all local food producers selling their finest produce. All are welcome to enjoy this pre-Christmas celebration. For more information contact lakelandsfoodhub@gmail.com.
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