Lots to do for Christmas at Turlough Museum
Some visitors meeting the animals from Kiltimagh Pet Farm at the ‘live crib’ at the National Museum of Ireland at Turlough. Picture: John Mee
The National Museum of Ireland has announced a great programme of free family-friendly events to celebrate ‘Christmas at Turlough Park’ over three festive afternoons on Sunday, December 7th, 14th and 21st.
From storytelling and craft workshops to a bustling Christmas market, a live crib, and carols in the galleries, ‘Christmas at Turlough Park’ promises something for all ages to enjoy.
The popular Christmas market will return to the Courtyard of Turlough Park House from 1 to 5pm on Sunday, December 7th and 14th.
The market will feature a range of beautiful crafts from local and regional makers and artists, including candles, calligraphy, art, cards, textiles and more.
There will also be a ‘live crib’ display on both afternoons with the team from Kiltimagh Pet Farm. Visitors can drop-in to the Courtyard from 1pm to 5pm to meet some of the farm animals associated with the nativity and other Christmas traditions.
Storyteller Fiona Dowling will be bringing the magic of Christmas alive with three interactive and creative storytelling sessions taking place at 1.30pm, 2.30pm and 3.30pm on Sunday, December 7th and 14th.
The sessions are suitable for families with children aged five years plus. No booking is required although spaces will be allocated on a first-come basis if required during busier periods.
Visitors are also invited to join a museum educator to create a unique Christmas tree decoration at some informal, drop-in crafting sessions between 1pm and 4pm on December 7th and 14th.
Each session lasts approximately 20 minutes. Admission is free and no booking is required but places may be limited during busier periods. Visitors should register for a crafting session on arrival in the Museum.
Two of the region's leading choral groups are at the Museum on Sunday, December 21st, for an atmospheric afternoon of Christmas carols in the exhibition galleries.
The Mayo Male Voice Choir will perform at 2pm and the Cill Aodain Choral Society will perform at 3pm. These performances have become a firm festive favourite with Museum visitors over the last number of years.
Younger visitors can enjoy a festive treasure hunt style activity from December 7th to January 4th. The ‘Christmas Decoration Hunt’ trail is suitable for children aged five years plus, although adult guidance is required. Pick up an activity sheet from museum reception and follow the clues through three floors of exhibition galleries to find 12 decorations hanging in the displays.
