King John’s Castle to transform into magical Christmas experience in Limerick

Castle Christmas will combine immersive theatre, festive activities and a Santa experience at King John’s Castle from November 21

Christmas in Limerick: immersive Castle Christmas experience announced for King John’s Castle. Picture: iStock

A magical immersive experience will take over King John’s Castle in Limerick this Christmas.

Running from November 21 to December 23, Castle Christmas will transform the castle into a festive world where “families become part of the story”.

Combining immersive theatre, festive activities, Santa encounters and a unique teddy bear workshop experience, the event is set to become a highlight of the Christmas offering in Limerick.

Tickets for adults start from €16.50, while children’s tickets are priced at €37.50. Tickets for babies are priced at €12.50.

Lasting approximately 75 minutes, the castle experience will start with visitors receiving Christmas hats, name badges and a map to guide them through the adventure.

A special Castle Christmas invitation pack can also be added to the experience, delivered to your home in a personalised red envelope addressed to the child.

The journey builds towards a special meeting with Santa Claus, where children will tell him about their Christmas wishes and receive a gift before moving on to the teddy bear workshop.

Christmas comes to King John’s Castle

The announcement marks the first major reveal for Christmas in Limerick 2026, as preparations continue for another festival programme designed to animate the city and support local businesses.

Following a competitive tender process, Limerick City and County Council has appointed Big Boss Group to develop and deliver the experience, working with the creators of the popular Elf Town Galway and in partnership with Discover Limerick DAC.

John Moran, mayor of Limerick, said: “One of my ambitions has been to create an animated city centre stretching from the medieval quarter through the heart of the city and up to The Crescent, so this is a very welcome addition. 

"Castle Christmas gives families another good reason to spend time in Limerick this December." 

He added: I'm dreaming of a green and white Christmas this year"

Pat Daly, director general of Limerick City and County Council, said: "We are delighted to be working with Big Boss Events to deliver what promises to be a premium Christmas experience in the iconic King John’s Castle. 

"Castle Christmas further strengthens Christmas in Limerick as a destination festival and reflects our commitment to investing in high-quality attractions and experiences that enhance Limerick's reputation as a vibrant place to visit throughout the year."