Visit beautiful Cork this Christmas

Cork has so much in offer this festive season. From live music and panto to the magical Christmas Markets, you'll enjoy exploring Cork during this special time of year. Check out our highlights of events to see on your Cork Christmas holiday in this handy Radisson Blu blog. As Bing would say, it's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!

Whether you are shopping for gifts or just want a tasty Christmas treat, you'll love a trip to the Glow, A Cork Christmas Celebration. Located on the Grand Parade from the 1st of December through to the 22nd of December (Fridays to Sundays), all events are free and a visit is sure to put you in the festive spirit.

The Artisan Food Markets have wonderful displays of delicious local produce. Why not pick up a stocking filler of two with a tasty chutney or jam? At the Indoor Craft Exhibition & Fair, at Triskel Christchurch, choose from inspiring jewellery, fashion and art for a truly unique Christmas present.

Take a ride on the Giant Ferris Wheel to see some of the best views of the Cork Christmas Lights or to step into Santa's Cork Workshop at Bishop Lucey Park where you can see the preparations for the big day first-hand. The lit-up park experience featuring ten costumed performers, six elf puppets, two reindeer puppets and a giant Santa will truly have children and the whole family feeling the GLOW of Christmas.

There's no better way to celebrate Christmas than with Christmas Carols. A handy tip is to take in the free festive concerts that are being held as part of the Cork Christmas Celebrations. Sing along to well-known Cork choirs and bands, there's sure to be a Jingle Bells and White Christmas on the repertoire. Check the listings of events to help plan your visit.

Performances are on during December at the Cork Opera House at Emmet Place, the Improvised panto is not suitable for under 16s, tickets start from €12. Go on get out there and enjoy some outrageous panto fun this festive season.

After some markets and panto fun why not hit a cosy pub and soak up some traditional Irish music this Christmas? The Lee Sessions are free Irish music sessions held in pubs in Cork city. Usually instrumental and on regularly during the week, it's a great way to experience Irish music. See talented groups of musicians playing everything from the fiddle and bodhrán to the piano accordion and Irish bouzouki.

Some of the pub venues around town include the Corner House, The Oliver Plunkett and Charlie's. If you're visiting Cork, check out the Lee Sessions to view upcoming gigs, you're guaranteed a great night of Craic.

The Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Cork is a wonderful hotel to stay this Christmas. Offering comfortable, spacious rooms and a picturesque location, it's also just a handy 15 drive to the festive fun in Cork. Spoil yourself with a winter warmer in the hotel bar, there's nothing like mulled wine to get you in the Christmas spirit. You'll love staying at the Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Cork.