Christmas markets return to city centre park as festive events kick off on November 15

Cork City Council has announced the full programme of festive events for this year's Christmas in Cork festival, with family entertainment and new attractions planned across the city centre.

The city council has said this year's Christmas in Cork festival will return with its biggest programme to date, with six weeks of events and activities set to kick off from November 15 until December 31.

Returning favourites include the Christmas Parade and Ferris Wheel at Grand Parade, joined by the return of the Christmas Markets at Bishop Lucey Park, the first since the space underwent a €7m revamp last year.

There will also be free festive entertainment at the Family Festive Hub at the Counting House Plaza, and live music performances from local acts such as the Barack Street Band, The Kabin Crew, and Boolaboom.

The Christmas Parade will kick festivities off on November 15 from 6.30 to 7.30pm, with an appearance from the French street theatre company, eliXir, who will be returning to Cork for the first time in more than two decades.

The Christmas lights will also be switched on by Santa Claus during the parade with a little help from the elves at Cork City Fire Brigade.

The Christmas Markets at Bishop Lucey Park will open from November 20 to December 22, with the much-loved Ferris Wheel opening from November 27.

The Family Festive Hub at Counting House Plaza will then open from November 28.

The Promise of Christmas, a new event joining the 2026 programme, at St Fin Barre's Cathedral, will run from December 9 to 19, bringing an immersive light and sound experience that explores the city's history, traditions and Christmas spirit.

Lord Mayor of Cork, councillor Damian Boylan, said Christmas is "a special time in Cork when our city centre comes alive and people from across the city and county come together to enjoy the festive atmosphere".

"I encourage everyone to come into the city, shop local and enjoy all that Christmas in Cork has to offer," said Mr Boylan.

For further information, visit: https://www.corkcity.ie.