Step Into a Winter Wonderland: The Enchanted Christmas Garden at Arboretum Kilquade, Co. Wicklow

Looking for something different than the usual Santa grotto this year? Arboretum Kilquade in Co. Wicklow has launched The Enchanted Christmas Garden, a new immersive festive experience that combines outdoor adventure with high-tech fun.

What Makes It Special?

Set in the stunning National Garden Exhibition Centre (just a short drive from Dublin), this experience kicks off with a Virtual Reality sleigh ride where kids become part of Santa's test flight, soaring through snow and twinkling lights before a heroic flying robot named Dash comes to the rescue.

After the VR adventure, families follow an enchanted trail through the garden, solving festive riddles and collecting stamps that lead to Santa's hidden cabin. Along the way, the garden comes alive with twinkling lights and secret clues tucked among the winter foliage.

Meeting Santa and the Reindeer

The trail ends at Santa's cosy forest cabin, where each child gets quality time with Santa himself and receives a coin to exchange for a luxury Arboretum teddy bear. The experience also includes meeting real reindeer, adding that extra touch of Christmas magic.

The Practical Bits

What's included:

Child's hot chocolate
VR sleigh ride adventure
Trail map with games and riddles
Meeting with Santa
Arboretum teddy bear keepsake
Reindeer visit

When: November 29th & 30th, December 6th, 7th, 13th & 14th Time: 12pm–4pm each day

Duration: Approximately 30 minutes Price: Adults €20 | Children €25

With only six dates available, early booking is essential. While you're there, you can also grab lunch at Rachel's Garden Café and browse the garden centre for Christmas gifts and decorations.

Book: www.arboretum.ie