By Elaine Whelan
The start of the summer saw drive in cinemas becoming popular across the country with ones popping up left right and centre around the country. This ingenious idea meant that families were safe in the protection of their own vehicle but could still enjoy the excitement of being out of the house and of cinema. This drive-thru idea has been translated into the winter months and now drive-thru Santa’s Grottos are popping up around Ireland. Here are some of the ones that we have found so far.
Santa’s Grotto Christmas Drive-In, RDS Dublin
Starting on December 2, the RDS in Simmonscourt, Dublin, is set to be transformed into various Christmas scenes. Each scene will be carefully created to provide a magical experience. Children and parents can view the wonderland from their car, before meeting Santa himself at the end of the journey. Added benefits of this safe Santa day out is that there’s no need to wait out in the cold for tickets, instead you can crank the heat and the Christmas tunes up for the ultimate experience. Tickets cost €49 per car and more information can be found on their website.
Retro North Pole Drive-In Experience, Leopardstown Racecourse
Leopardstown has gone above and beyond with their 2020 Christmas line-up. The Retro orth Pole Drive-In Experience has everything and more!You can enjoy the safe Santa experience from the comfort of your car while tuning into a live camera link-up to the North Pole. There will be a special screening of ‘Father Christmas’, and Christmas themed food and drinks from the Retro food vendors. It doesn’t stop there however! Santa’s Nice List will appear on the big screen with your children’s names, plus each family will receive a personalised message from Santa direct to your smart phone, and children will receive a present from Santa’s Elves. It sounds even better than the real thing. Plus you can even bring your dog. The early bird ticket is only €28 per car and is set to start December 5.
https://www.retrodrivein.ie/christmas
Palmerstown House Estate
The five star Palmerstown House Estate is a gem all year around but at Christmas is becomes something even more spectacular, and this year is no different. The journey through the Christmas wonderland begins when you arrive at the North gates of Palmerstown House Estate where your pre-booked ticket will be scanned. You and your family will then embark on your self-drive adventure through the beautiful grounds of the 1100 acre estate. The festive route takes you past Elf Town, Santa’s Toy Factory, the Reindeer Stables, Candy Cane Lane and finally to Santa’s Drive-Thru Grotto deep in the woodlands. Here you will be greeted by Santa and his friends who will wish you a ‘Happy Christmas’. The Elves will have age appropriate gifts for all little visitors which will be delivered to your car. There will be a special screening of ‘The Snowman’, in the daytime and a Wonderlights Trail for those who visit at night. You can avail of family deals of up to 8 guests with adults going free. There are more details on prices and available dates in their website.
Christmas Drive-thru, Limerick Racecourse
Determined to spread festive cheer to the people of Limerick, the Limerick Racecourse will hold its very one drive-in Santa Grotto this year. The event has been so popular to date that the organisers had to change from their original location to the larger one at the racecourse. You can drive down Santas Magical Runway and lots more including: Gingerbread Lane, Elf Town, Santas Mailroom and Santas Sorting Office. Mr. and Mrs. Claus will be there making sure all the boys and girls are enjoying themselves! You will see loads of your favourite Christmas characters along the way as well. With twinkling lights and Christmas decorations aplenty, it’s an event bursting with festive cheer! The price is €38.22 per car
