Glow Cork 2019-a Guide to Cork’s Christmas Market

Glow Cork- Pictures from Cork’s Christmas Market

Winter is your favourite time of the year? You love seeing dazzling Christmas lights and visiting Christmas markets, or you’re simply planning your next city break with the kids? Do not look further! Towards the end of November, Cork city lights up with the return of Glow Cork- a Cork Christmas celebration. Why spend your winter days inside when you can explore Cork city, named one of the 'Friendliest Cities in the World' by Condé Nast Traveller guide?! Get out and enjoy the festive season in one of the best Irish cities for Christmas shopping, shows and festive fun.

Christmas in Cork will begin with the switching on of the Christmas lights on the 17th of November on St. Patrick’s Street, and as the dates for Glow Cork have been announced by Cork City Council, you can start planning your city break straight away! In case you did not hear the good news yet, Cork’s 12-day Christmas Festival will take place on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from the 27th of November to the 20th of December, giving guests lots of time to visit the city during this magical time.

What to Expect at Glow Cork 2019

You may be a regular Glow Cork visitor, or this might be your first time! Either way there are plenty of things to look forward to at this year’s Christmas festival. Among others, you can expect a giant Ferris wheel, delicious food, excellent Christmas shopping opportunities, festive Christmas music and plenty of things to do at night-time. Whether you are looking to visit Cork this winter for shopping, food or Glow Cork, Travelodge Cork are here to help you and your family or friends have the best time possible. So here are some of the things we suggest you definitely do while attending Glow Cork this Christmas.

Attend the Switching on of Cork’s Christmas Lights

Little boy in santa costume at Glow Cork

What better way to feel the Christmas spirit and experience the Christmas season in Cork than by being there at the beginning of the festive season. The annual switching on of the Cork City Christmas lights will take place on the 17th of November (Sunday) on St. Patrick’s street. With lots of people expected to attend, make sure to arrive early and to allow enough travel time.

Visit Bishop Lucey Park for Christmas Shopping and More

Ignite your inner child this Christmas with a visit to the magical Bishop Lucey Park, which will be transformed into a winter wonderland. This year’s theme will be ‘The Night Before Christmas in Old Cork’ which is sure to have a nostalgic and traditional feel, appealing to those who are interested in hearing more about Cork’s heritage and history. Start your trip by entering an ice tunnel and stroll through streets, reminiscent of a medieval village. Make sure to tell your kids to look through the windows of Santa’s house, where Santa Claus will be sleeping in preparation of his trip to Cork! The Bishop Lucey Park is also the place to be for shopping enthusiasts and hungry travelers, with the Grand Parade Christmas Markets offering lots of opportunities to grab last minute Christmas gifts and delicious food and drinks from local restaurants.

Christmas Music, Carolling and Pantos

Listen to Christmas classics and renditions performed by local choirs, school groups and bands. Glow Cork will showcase a great variety of talent, enhancing the Christmas feeling throughout the festival. Don’t worry if you are out and about, there will be lots of free music events throughout the city and not just during the day, but also on the evenings. See here for more info.

Christmas music is great! But Christmas simply wouldn’t be the same without a panto. For those looking to see a classic pantomime, make sure to visit Cork Opera House, or the Everyman Theatre in Cork, where they will play children’s favourites, like Peter Pan or Jack and the Beanstalk.


Travelodge Cork Airport

Stay with Travelodge Cork

If you’re looking for a family budget hotel this Christmas near all the action, choose Travelodge Cork, which will provide a comfortable starting point whether you are looking to attend Glow Cork, indulge in some Christmas shopping or simply enjoy a festive city break.

Travelodge Cork is located only a 10-minute drive from Cork city or Cork Airport with easy access to all Cork shopping, shows and festive fun.

After a busy day of exploring, you can unwind and relax in our spacious rooms, which feature a comfy king size bed with four plump pillows and cosy duvets. If you arrive with children, be sure to check out our Family Rooms with optional Travel Cot.

Make sure to stay close to Glow Cork this Christmas. Book today with Travelodge Cork and enjoy the lowest rates by saving up to 10% when booking direct- our Christmas gift to you!