The Santa Express at Oakfield Park was such a treat last year that I was probably one of the first to book for this year when it went on sale.  

You all know how much I love this park, and one of my favourite things about it is that they add to it and improve it every winter.  Well, with the Santa Experience, they’ve done it again. It’s bigger and better than last year.

 We’re not going with the girls until later in the month, but Santa and his elves invited myself and The Him to pop over tonight for their opening night to have a sneak peak!  Oakfield Park has once again been transformed into a magical Winter Wonderland and if you have booked tickets, you are in for a treat.

We didn’t go on the train or meet Santa tonight as we want to save that for when the girls are with us.  We simply had a wander around the artisan market in the Plaza, which is new this year and full of fab stalls by local traders.

The atmosphere is perfect…cozy and excited. Christmas music lilts subtly through the park and the lights are spectacular, all over the park. The piano background music in Buffers is beautiful…very relaxing.

The Elves, like last year, were brilliant.  Lead by the marvellous Mollie Mistletoe, they were energetic, festive and fun. The Elf Workshop is running in the marquee with elves teaching visitors how to be an elf, arts and crafts and storytelling with Mrs Claus.

What can you expect when you get there?

 You shall board the train to go on a journey through the woodland to visit Santa and meet the elves. Keep an eye out along the way for surprises and secrets in the forest such as the elf washing line.

Children will receive a certificate to say they have been on the nice list as well as a small gift, and a mulled wine or hot chocolate for the adults is included in your ticket.

Things to know for your visit:

A photographer will be in Santa’s Grotto to capture the magical moment you meet Santa with prints available to purchase during your visit.  

Wrap up warm.  It was dry and mild tonight, but it was cold! Lots of layers and hats!.

 

Some of the artisans participating in the market are:

Amelia’s Irish Design, Ballyholey Farm Shop, Bernie Murphy Textiles, The Counter Deli, Hammer & Tongs, Marina Hamilton Painter and Sculptor, Modern Eire (Printmaker and Designer), Rathlin Knitwear.

We’ve had a lovely date night tonight and are even more excited about coming to visit Santa later in the month now.  I can’t wait to see the wee faces on my two little Rascals.  Oakfield Park has once again created a magical experience for the whole family.

Tonight was the perfect start to our Christmassy weekend.  We have our Polar Express Fundraiser in Century tomorrow and then Sunday will be the Toy Show and decorating the house.  Any notion we had of waiting until next weekend has gone well and truly out the window after tonight.