The evenings are getting shorter, the temperatures are dropping and Christmas is just around the corner.
But winter is a wonderful time to explore Donegal.
Across the county, towns and villages are preparing for the festive season, with Christmas markets, Santa experiences, family entertainment and plenty of opportunities to support local businesses.
Whether you’re planning a festive weekend away, looking for a family day out or simply hoping to get into the Christmas spirit, there’s plenty happening across Donegal this November and December.
Here are 10 festive things to do in Donegal this Christmas.
1. All Aboard the Santa Train – Fintown Railway
Tucked away in the beautiful Donegal countryside, Fintown Railway is one of the county’s more unusual attractions.
The heritage railway runs alongside the shores of Lough Finn, surrounded by mountains and stunning scenery.
At Christmas, the railway traditionally welcomes some very special passengers, transforming its scenic train journey into a festive Santa experience.
It’s a lovely opportunity to enjoy a Christmas outing in a quieter part of Donegal while supporting a community-run attraction.
The railway is preparing its Santa trains for 2026, with dates and booking arrangements still to be confirmed.
Best for: Families with young children and railway enthusiasts
Location: Fintown, West Donegal
Dates: 2026 Santa train dates to be confirmed
2. Experience a Wild Arctic Christmas – Wild Ireland
Wild Ireland, near Burnfoot in Inishowen, is already a fascinating place to visit, but Christmas brings something a little different.
The Wild Arctic Experience returns from 20 November to 23 December 2026, combining the attraction’s wildlife setting with festive entertainment.
Visitors can meet animals including reindeer, Arctic foxes and snowy owls before enjoying a Christmas experience featuring Santa, Mrs Claus, gingerbread making and a magical virtual-reality sleigh ride.
As darkness falls, Christmas lights and festive displays add to the atmosphere.
It’s a particularly memorable way to combine wildlife, nature and Christmas in one family outing.
Best for: Families, animal lovers and children
Location: Burnfoot, Inishowen
Dates: 20 November – 23 December 2026
3. Explore Buncrana Christmas Market
There’s something special about a traditional Christmas market, particularly when there’s hot food, festive music and plenty of local crafts to browse.
Buncrana Christmas Market returns to Swan Park from 27 November to 13 December 2026.
Visitors can explore timber market cabins selling handmade gifts, crafts and seasonal treats, alongside live entertainment, children’s activities and festive decorations.
General admission is free, making it an excellent option for a family day out without having to spend a fortune.
New for 2026 is Santa’s Enchanted Forest Elf Trail, a separately ticketed woodland adventure with lights, elf houses and a visit to Santa.
Best for: Christmas shopping, families and couples
Location: Swan Park, Buncrana
Dates: 27 November – 13 December 2026
Visit Buncrana Christmas Market
4. Take the Santa Express – Oakfield Park
Oakfield Park, near Raphoe, is well known for its beautiful gardens and miniature railway.
During the festive season, however, the park transforms into a Christmas wonderland.
The Santa Express takes families on a train journey through illuminated woodland, festive displays and magical Christmas scenes before arriving at Santa’s grotto.
The 2026 experience also includes activities such as a puppet show, gingerbread decorating, Christmas crafts and marshmallow toasting.
With plenty happening around the park, this is an outing worth allowing a few hours for.
It’s largely an outdoor experience, so wrap up warmly and bring waterproof clothing.
Best for: Families looking for a full Christmas experience
Location: Oakfield Park, Raphoe
Dates: 27 November – 23 December 2026
5. Discover the Back Lane Christmas Market – Ballybofey
Ballybofey is getting into the festive spirit early this year with the return of its Back Lane Christmas Market.
Taking place on Sunday 15 and Sunday 22 November, the market brings together local craftspeople, artists, food stalls and entertainment.
It’s a great opportunity to pick up unique Christmas gifts while supporting small Donegal businesses.
The first market on 15 November also coincides with the Ballybofey Christmas lights switch-on and the unveiling of McElhinneys’ Christmas window display.
For anyone who enjoys the atmosphere of Christmas shopping without the crowds of a larger city, it’s well worth a visit.
Best for: Local crafts, Christmas gifts and festive atmosphere
Location: Back Lane, Ballybofey
Dates: 15 and 22 November 2026
Find out more at Jackson’s Hotel
6. Visit Donegal’s Lapland – Ballyliffin
For families looking for a traditional Santa experience, Donegal’s Lapland at Doagh Famine Village has been welcoming visitors for many years.
The experience begins with a live Christmas show featuring music, elves and a rather memorable entrance from Santa himself.
Afterwards, families can explore Santa’s Village and Toy Factory, where children can choose their own Christmas present.
There’s also an opportunity for family photographs and a chance to enjoy the festive surroundings.
It’s an established Christmas tradition for many Donegal families and a popular attraction for visitors to Inishowen.
Advance booking is recommended as individual shows can sell out.
Best for: Families and children who love Christmas
Location: Doagh Famine Village, Ballyliffin
Dates: 27 November – 22 December 2026
7. Enjoy the Polar Express – Donegal Railway Museum
Donegal Town’s Railway Heritage Museum is bringing back its popular Polar Express Santa Experience this December.
The museum will be transformed for Christmas, with seasonal activities, crafts, puzzles and opportunities to learn about Donegal’s railway heritage.
Children can take a festive Polar Express ride to meet Santa, Mrs Claus and their elves, with a gift included in the experience.
The museum is also holding a special sensory evening on Friday 11 December, with adjustments to lighting and noise and longer timeslots for visitors with additional needs.
Located close to the centre of Donegal Town, it’s easy to combine with lunch, shopping or a stroll around the town.
Best for: Families, younger children and railway enthusiasts
Location: Donegal Railway Heritage Museum, Donegal Town
Dates: 11–13 and 18–20 December 2026
8. Browse the Donegal Town Christmas Craft Fair
If you prefer giving something locally made rather than buying another gift from a big chain store, the Donegal Town Christmas Craft Fair is worth adding to your calendar.
Taking place at the St John Bosco Centre on Sunday 6 December, the fair brings together local artists, makers and food producers.
Expect a selection of handmade crafts, gifts and locally produced goods, with plenty of opportunities to discover something different.
It’s also a lovely way to support independent businesses and the people keeping traditional crafts alive in Donegal.
Once you’ve finished browsing, you can spend some time exploring the shops and cafés around Donegal Town.
Best for: Handmade gifts and supporting local businesses
Location: St John Bosco Centre, Donegal Town
Date: Sunday 6 December 2026, 12pm–5pm
Find out more about the Christmas Craft Fair
9. Enjoy a Christmas Pantomime – Balor Arts Centre
Christmas wouldn’t be quite the same without a pantomime.
The Balor Arts Centre in Ballybofey is staging Cinderella 2 – The Sisters Revenge! from 27 November 2026.
A trip to the theatre is a great alternative to the usual outdoor Christmas attractions, particularly when Donegal’s winter weather isn’t playing ball.
With a local venue, festive entertainment and the opportunity for a family evening out, it’s a lovely way to enjoy the Christmas season.
The Balor also hosts music, theatre and other live performances throughout the year, so it’s always worth checking what’s on.
Best for: Families, theatre lovers and a festive evening out
Location: Balor Arts Centre, Ballybofey
Dates: From 27 November 2026; check the performance schedule
10. Treat Yourself to Festive Afternoon Tea – Lough Eske Castle
Not every Christmas outing needs to involve a Santa train or a busy market.
For something a little more relaxed, Lough Eske Castle offers a beautiful setting for a festive afternoon.
The castle’s Festive Teddy Bear Afternoon Tea Party takes place on 13 and 20 December, featuring afternoon tea, a Christmas disco and a visit from Santa.
Children are encouraged to bring their favourite teddy bear along.
For couples or groups of friends, the castle also offers a traditional festive afternoon tea experience, making it a lovely option for a seasonal catch-up.
Surrounded by woodland near Lough Eske, the castle is a particularly atmospheric place to visit during winter.
Best for: Families, couples and special occasions
Location: Lough Eske Castle, near Donegal Town
Dates: Teddy Bear Afternoon Tea – 13 and 20 December 2026
Make a Festive Weekend of It in Donegal
Christmas in Donegal isn’t just about the big attractions.
Sometimes the best part of a winter visit is exploring a small town decorated for Christmas, stopping for a coffee, enjoying a meal beside a warm fire or discovering a local shop you’ve never visited before.
From the dramatic coastline of Inishowen to the mountains and villages of West Donegal, there’s plenty to enjoy throughout the colder months.
If you’re planning a festive break, why not combine one of these Christmas experiences with a night or two away?
At DonegalStays.ie, you can discover holiday homes, cottages, hotels and other accommodation across the county, with the opportunity to contact property owners and providers directly.
You can also explore our What’s On in Donegal page for more events and activities throughout the year.
A quick note before you travel: Christmas events can sell out, and dates, prices and opening arrangements may change. Always check with the organiser before setting off.
However you choose to spend the festive season, there’s plenty of Christmas magic waiting to be discovered in Donegal.