Oldcastle transforms old cinema into magical Christmas festival

Oldcastle is gearing up for one of its most exciting festive seasons yet as the town’s historic cinema building transforms into a sprawling indoor Christmas market, children’s activity hub and Santa grotto an attraction organisers say will “bring crowds to the town” and offer families a full day of festive fun.

The Castle Christmas Festival opens this Friday December 5th and runs across three weekends in December, promising a blend of Christmas shopping, entertainment, artisan food, and a Santa experience designed to rival anything further afield. “Christmas sorted, no hassle everything you need is in Oldcastle,” say organisers.

Ealma Purcell of The Poppy Garden and Oldcastle GFC, one of the driving forces behind the event, says the community is buzzing with anticipation. “It’s hugely exciting for the town. The old Cinema is being turned into a huge indoor Christmas market, a children’s play area and Santa grotto. It’s going to be a great event, and we’d love people to come and experience it for themselves.”

Visitors are encouraged to make a day of it, beginning with a walk at the stunning Loughcrew Cairns, only minutes from the town. The panoramic views are particularly magical in winter, with clear days offering vistas across up to eighteen counties.

Back in Oldcastle, the newly transformed cinema an elegant Art Deco landmark will host Santa and an extensive indoor market. Parents can book Santa through Eventbrite, with each child receiving a memorable gift, a festive drink, a keepsake photo, and even a photo-op with what organisers claim might be “the biggest teddy bear in the world.” Children can also enjoy giant Connect Four and entertainment from Kyle Riley’s Music for Little Folk.

The market itself is set to be a major draw, with an impressive line-up of local and artisan stallholders. Artisan baker Susie McCabe will offer her renowned mince pies, pastries, cakes and beautifully decorated Christmas puddings. The Poppy Garden will showcase a selection of “living Christmas trees” from Picea Superblue to Thuja Smaragd alongside festive plants and charming wooden reindeer.

Royal Wreaths & Floral Designs by Michelle will feature fresh Irish foliage wreaths and floral displays, raising funds for LARCC and Meath Hospice. Petals & Patterns brings handmade and internationally sourced decorations, while LED Balloons adds a sparkle with twinkling light-up balloons.

Craft enthusiasts will find handmade decorations, wooden plaques, jewellery and totes from CraftyHandCrafts, while Didier Riva Photography displays beautiful landscape imagery. Hungry shoppers will be looked after by Christmas Fayre Food, serving toasted festive wraps, hearty Guinness beef stew, vegetable soup and warming seasonal meals.

Across the three weekends, the market will rotate additional vendors, including watercolour illustrations from Zozee Crafts, bespoke kids’ clothing by ChickenBumClothing, artwork from Emmaryandesigns, toys from John Reilly Toys, and wellness support from Slimming World.

Later weekends will see handmade beaded jewellery from BusyBeaders, children’s clothing and accessories from Paula’s Closet, goat-milk skincare from Ivy Cottage Soap, and eco-luxury candles by Rosmarin Atelier Candles. Live personalised calligraphy and ceramic tiles will also feature.

The festival will culminate with an appearance by local artist Brid Fanning, recently featured on Nationwide, who will offer her vibrant artworks on canvas as well as printed cushions, scarves and totes.

Most stallholders will also offer gift vouchers, giving shoppers even more options.

Organisers believe the festival offers something for everyone. “The little ones will be delighted to meet Santa, while parents, grandparents and everyone from teens up will find something special,” said Ealma Purcell. “Oldcastle really is the place to be this Christmas.”