From Santa’s Grotto to wreath making – magical Christmas events announced for Dobbies’ Antrim

Dobbies’ Antrim store is gearing up for a Christmas season filled with magic, sparkle and festive cheer, as Santa Claus prepares to make a special stop in the town.

From enchanting grotto visits and festive breakfasts to creative workshops and charity shopping nights, there is something for the whole family – including four-legged friends – to enjoy.

The celebrations begin with Santa’s Arrival on Sunday 23 November, a free-to-attend event featuring seasonal storytelling, community performances and plenty of festive spirit.

Pre-booking is recommended to secure a spot at this much-anticipated launch of the Christmas season.

Back by popular demand, Santa’s Grotto returns with an all-new North Pole adventure theme. Children will step into an ice-inspired world, play festive games and activities, before meeting Santa and receiving a special gift. Running from 23 November until Christmas Eve, tickets start at £14 per child.

A Quiet Grotto session is also available on Friday 5 December, offering a calmer, more inclusive experience for children with additional needs.

Dobbies’ Antrim store is also making sure pets can join the fun. Santa Paws, which has doubled its booking slots due to high demand, gives dogs the chance to enjoy a festive sniff-ari game, meet Santa, pose for photos and take home a gift.

Tickets cost £12.50 per dog and sessions run from 23 November through to 24 December.

Families can also enjoy a magical morning at Santa’s Breakfast in the Dobbies restaurant, starting on Saturday 29 November.

Children will share breakfast with Santa and his elves, enjoy festive games, and even build their own winter character toy to take home. Tickets start from £18 per child and £9 per adult.

For festive shopping, the annual Christmas Shopping Night takes place on Thursday 27 November, with live entertainment, grotto previews and exclusive offers on Christmas decorations, trees and gifts.

Tickets are pay what you can (£1, £2.50 or £5), with all proceeds going to Alzheimer’s Research UK, Dobbies’ national charity partner.

For adults looking for something creative, the Festive Wreath Making and Afternoon Tea Experience will run on 29 and 30 November. Guests can enjoy a luxury afternoon tea alongside a guided workshop hosted by Dobbies’ Green Team, leaving with a bespoke wreath. Tickets are priced at £55 per person.

A spokesperson for Dobbies said:

“Whether you’re meeting Santa for the first time or keeping cherished traditions alive, Dobbies invites you to celebrate the season with sparkle, joy, and magical experiences for the whole family.”

Tickets for all events are now available via www.dobbies.com/events.

Event highlights at Dobbies’ Antrim store

• Santa’s Arrival – Sunday 23 November – Free

• Santa’s Grotto – 23 Nov–24 Dec – from £14 per child

• Quiet Grotto – Friday 5 December – from £14 per child

• Santa Paws – 23 Nov–24 Dec – £12.50 per dog (children’s tickets can be added from £14)

• Santa’s Breakfast – 29 Nov–24 Dec – from £18 per child / £9 per adult

• Christmas Shopping Night – Thursday 27 November – Pay what you can (£1, £2.50 or £5) – proceeds to Alzheimer’s Research UK

• Festive Wreath Making & Afternoon Tea – 29–30 November – £55 per person