Imperial Hotel brings family traditions to life this Christmas

As the festive season approaches, many are planning pre-Christmas breaks, family gatherings, and cherished catch-ups with friends.

The Imperial Hotel invites you to relive the joy and magic of your childhood Christmas with a dash of tradition and a sprinkle of wonder. From its traditional holiday décor to enchanting new festive features, Cork’s most historic hotel is ready to transform your Christmas getaway into a storybook experience.

New owners, the Louis Fitzgerald Family, want to add a touch of magic to every guest’s stay and with their heartfelt ‘Traditional Family Christmas’ theme, infusing their own beloved family traditions into the hotel’s celebrations, ensuring an experience filled with nostalgia and joy for all.

The Fitzgerald family are even bringing one of their own family traditions to Cork in the form of a reconditioned sleigh which will take pride of place in The Imperial Hotel lobby.

This sleigh has a charming heritage, and was used at the family owned ‘An Poitin Stil’ pub in Dublin over 30 years ago to bring locals for sleigh rides in the area whenever it would snow. With a fresh coat of paint and festive decór its sure to be a delightful attraction for families.

From the moment you step into the hotel’s South Mall entrance, the festive spirit will sweep you in.

The Imperial has a number of new Christmas surprises, including a magical Santa Postbox where little ones can send letters directly to the North Pole (and receive a reply from Santa!), a miniature train display winding around a grand Christmas tree in the stunning foyer. Add to that, indulgent traditional decor, which looks resplendent against the marble floors, high vaulted ceilings and crystal chandelier overhead, and you get a picture-perfect spot to capture your holiday memories.

This year, you can indulge in a taste of holiday cheer with a sweet tin-inspired afternoon tea filled with classic treats like Quality Street and Cadbury Roses served in Helena’s restaurant (formerly Sketch).

Located right in the heart of Cork city, the hotel is your front-row seat to Christmas magic and the perfect spot for a festive getaway. You have easy access to shopping, attractions, and seasonal entertainment. Established in 1816, the hotel combines timeless elegance with festive charm, attracting shoppers, families, party-goers, and holiday travellers alike. The concierge team are also always on hand to help with your shopping bags, gifts and dining recommendations. 

Staying at The Imperial means you’re close to the best of Cork’s festive attractions. Here are some local recommendations from the team:

Explore the English Market: Savour local favourites like spiced beef and smoked salmon, local cheeses, cakes, puddings and more!

Midnight Mass at St. Mary’s Cathedral: Experience a cherished spiritual tradition.

Read the ‘Hollybough’: Enjoy a festive magazine filled with local stories and articles that is published annually in the run up to Chrismtas.

Visit The Share Crib at Daunt Square: Support the vulnerable elderly of Cork this holiday season with a donation at the Crib or to the Listen to Christmas Carols: Choirs serenade shoppers on St. Patrick’s Street.

Attend a Christmas Pantomime: Enjoy shows at Cork Opera House or Everyman Theatre.

Visit ‘Corkmas’ attractions: Discover the Solas Lighting Installation, Panoramic Ferris Wheel, and Carousel on Grand Parade, part of Cork’s Christmas celebration organised by Cork City Council.

Post Santa Letters at the Imperial: Use the special North Pole postbox located in the hotel lobby and look forward to your reply from Santa’s helpers!

The Imperial Festive Escape Package is available from now until January 6, from €230 per stay.

For more information, visit www.imperialhotelcork.com or call (02) 4274040.