It’s final here – it’s Christmas week at last. I’d like to wish everyone a happy and peaceful Christmas and thank you for reading the Limerick Events Guide each week.
Rapunzel is locked in a tower. Can she use her long hair to escape? Can she make her way out of the forest? Will she find true love? Does she want to? Who is the follically challenged Juan Garibaldi? Find out more at Rapunzel 2024 in the Lime Tree Theatre from Saturday 7th December to Sunday 5th January. Written by Mike Finn and directed by Michael Finneran. Tickets €30/€27 with family ticket for €105. More info here
The Egg-straordinary Specsavers Limerick Panto, Mother Goose, comes to University Concert Hall this December from Thursday 19th December to Sunday 12th January. Poor Mother Goose is struggling to get by on her meagre pension. Her two sons Seamus and Gussie are pretty hopeless at earning money, but they help her on the farm looking after her geese. Mother Goose’s Fairy Godmother sees how hard things are getting and sends her a goose that lays golden eggs. This makes Mother Goose very happy and very rich. But money turns Mother Goose into a different person, and she becomes distracted by the evil Demon Vanity as she goes off seeking a magic elixir to bring her youth and beauty. However, Vanity is just trying to steal Priscilla, the golden goose for themselves. More info here
The Limerick Panto Society presents Goldilocks The Circus Panto in the Millennium Theatre, TUS, from Thursday 27th December to Sunday 5th January. Get ready to meet the dazzling Goldilocks, the hilarious trio of bears, and all the amazing circus performers who will bring this magical story to life! More info here
Fossett’s Christmas Circus returns to Cleeves on O’Callaghan Strand from Thursday 12th December to Sunday 5th January. Step into the heated festive big top and be swept away with amazing acrobatic presentations, daredevil stunts and a sprinkle of festive Fossett magic. Join Otto the clown and the Queen of Irish Circus, Marion Fossett in a unique Circus Show – a must see in Limerick this Christmas! Online Ticketns €14 for children, €14 for seniors and €18 for adults. Box Office Tickets €16 for children and seniors and €20 for adults. More info here
Hop on board Toots the Train and soak up Limerick City’s most festive sights and Christmas lights! Toots leaves the UL City Campus, Liddy Street every 25 minutes between 11.30am and 7pm (runs until January 5th). Tickets €5pp (Children under 2 go free) and are available from Toots’ Train Driver. Pay by Revolut or cash on the day. More info here
Local Artist, Grace O’Brien, is holding a two-month solo exhibition, the Best of Both, in the Hunt Cafe. Her first solo exhibition features 24 paintings of local scenery. Runs from the 1st November to the 31st December. More info here
Get your skates on at Limerick On Ice in Arthurs Quay Park until January 5th. Open 3pm to 8pm weekdays and 10am to 8pm at weekends. Tickets €20/€18/€16. More info here
The Limerick School of Art and Design (LSAD) is hosting its highly anticipated 2024 Christmas Showcase, running from December 3rd to 23rd in the Old Debenhams Store. Showcasing the work of more than 100 talented artists, the exhibition offers a dynamic mix of mediums including fashion, ceramics, fine art, photography and sculpture. Featured artists include Ann McBride, Lidija Savickaite, Gavin Hogg, Frank McCarthy (representing Paint Punch), Tina O’Connell, Shane Vaughan of Limerick Printmakers and many more. More info here
Ormston House presents The Limerick Show, a showcase of works by emerging and established artists. This is a celebration of the breadth of art being produced in Limerick (city and county) today, showcasing thirty-nine artists and spanning painting, drawing, photography, sculpture, and video. This edition has no theme, but there are recurring motifs and subjects. Runs from the 29th November to the 1st February. More info here
Risk/ Reward, Limerick Printmakers at 25 explores the importance of, and power in cultivating resilience as an individual and an artist, while acknowledging the challenges of maintaining this quality in an ever more complex world. Runs from the 21st November to the 12th January in the Limerick City Gallery of Art. Risk/ Reward features a selection of entirely new work from diverse printmakers working within an array of techniques, united by deep engagement within their practice. More info here
Discover Kwaidan – Encounters with Lafcadio Hearn at The Hunt Museum, showcasing an extraordinary collection of prints by 20 Japanese artists and 20 Irish artists. Inspired by Hearn’s ghostly tales, the works reflect a range of techniques and artistic perspectives, each transforming these eerie stories into compelling visual pieces. The exhibition explores the intersection of folklore, storytelling, and the shared cultural heritage between Ireland and Japan. Runs until 22nd February. More info here
Monday 23rd December
The Festive Food/Craft Market and Santa Post-box is open in the Milk Market from 8am to 3pm
The Big Limerick Seisiún with live music and dance takes place every evening in the Locke Bar at 5pm and 9pm
It’s Bottomless Christmas: 80s vs 90s in the Black Rabbit from 5.30pm. Celebrate the festive season with an unmissable night of live music, delicious food, and bottomless drinks. Whether you’re planning the ultimate Christmas party or just looking for some festive fun with friends, this is the perfect event to get into the holiday spirit. Tickets from €20.
Liam O’Brien’s Crooning at Christmas returns to Dolans Warehouse at 7.30pm. This December marks a milestone for Crooning at Christmas, the beloved festive show led by Liam O’Brien, as it celebrates its 20th anniversary. Since its debut in 2004, this celebration of the swing era has become a cherished Limerick tradition, lighting up the city’s holiday season year after year. To honour this special anniversary, Crooning at Christmas returns for not one, but two performances, on Sunday December 22nd, and Monday December 23rd. Tickets €25 + BF. More info here
It’s Mickeys Monday (Christmas Edition) with DJ Greg in Mickey Martins from 9pm
Tuesday 24th December (Christmas Eve)
The Christmas Eve Food/Craft Market & Outdoor Cafes is open in the Milk Market from 8am to 2pm
Wednesday 25th December (Christmas Day)
Limerick Parkrun will be running a special 5km run starting at the UL Boathouse at 9.30am. Free event. More info here
The GOAL Mile is taking place at several venues across Limerick: University of Limerick (11am-1pm), Ballybrown (12pm), Crecora GAA (12-12.30pm) and Fedamore GAA (11.30am). Tickets from €12. More info here
Thursday 26th December (Stephen’s Day)
The GOAL Mile is taking place at Castle Demesne, Newcastle West at 10am. Tickets from €12. More info here
The Annual St. Stephens Day Caherdavin 10k takes place at 12pm. Tickets €15. More info here
The Christmas Racing Festival takes place at the Limerick Racecourse. First race is 12pm approx. with the last race at 15.27pm. Tickets €25 for adults, €20 for students/OAPs, €75 for Family tickets €75 and €5 for juvenile. Children under 12 go free. More info here
Trad Folkin Rocks presents Bring Back The Wren in the Commercial Bar from 2pm this St Stephen’s Day. The Wren Parade through the city starts at 2pm at the St. Mary’s Parish Men’s Shed (bring your instruments or just follow us around town!). This will be followed by an open trad session in The Commercial with the Tinteán musicians at 4pm and a free gig in the Record Room with Shroomie, Ailíse, Major Feen and DJ Hot Whiskey from 8pm til late. This whole event is Free but they will be taking donations in aid of The Simon Community and will have donation buckets and QR codes. More info here
It’s Bottomless Christmas: Ibiza Winter Brunch in the Black Rabbit from 5.30pm. Celebrate the festive season with an unmissable night of live music, delicious food, and bottomless drinks. Whether you’re planning the ultimate Christmas party or just looking for some festive fun with friends, this is the perfect event to get into the holiday spirit. Tickets from €20.
PIGTOWN PICK OF THE WEEK Seoda Shows presents a double bill in Dolans Warehouse from 8 p.m. featuring two great Limerick bands: SWEETS and T.A. Narrative. SWEETS is an alternative rock band featuring members of Tooth, Giveamanakick, Windings, and Japanese Jesus. T.A. Narrative is a duo composed of Tara and Anna. The pair, who are childhood friends, have worked together under various guises, sharing the stage in Irish punk scene bands and touring and recording in the U.S. Tickets €18+BF. More info here
It’s a Thirsty Thursday Stephens Day Special with DJ Colm in Mickey Martins from 9.30pm
Pat Holland is in the Glen Tavern from 9.30pm
16 Tons of Jive are in the Blue Bar (Green Yard Café) at 9.30pm
The Prophets are in the Old Quarter from 10.30pm
Finish your night off with the Dolans After Party on the Dolans Terrace from 10.30pm
Friday 27th Decemberm
The Milk Market Outdoor Cafe is open from 11am to 3pm with live music, crafts, antiques and vintage goods
The Christmas Racing Festival takes place at the Limerick Racecourse. First race is 12pm approx. with the last race at 15.27pm. Tickets €25 for adults, €20 for students/OAPs, €75 for Family tickets €75 and €5 for juveniles. Children under 12 go free. More info here
The Wickham Way Food Court will be open from 1pm to 9pm (exact opening hours vary for each food truck)
The Big Limerick Seisiún with live music and dance takes place every evening in the Locke Bar at 5pm and 9pm
Josh Quinn in the Old Quarter from 5pm
SOLD OUTMunster Rugby take on interprovincial rivals Leinster in Round 9 of the United Rugby Championship at Thomond Park at 7.35pm. Live coverage on TG4 and Limerick’s Live 95fm. More info here
The Flag Listeners play Dolans Upstairs at 8pm. The Flag Listeners are an exciting and innovative four-piece band from Limerick. The band comprises Eamonn Hehir (vocals, acoustic and electric guitar), John Steele (vocals, electric guitar, lap steel), Sean Fox (bass guitar, backing vocals), and Tony Brennan (drums, backing vocals). The band has quickly developed a reputation for delivering a dynamic, high-energy live set with sounds ranging from melodic pop-rock and ambient atmospherics to full-on rock ‘n’ roll. Tickets €10. More info here.
The Year Grunge Broke play Dolans Warehouse at 9pm. Fans of Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Soundgarden, Alice In Chains, The Smashing Pumpkins, Stone Temple Pilots, Tool, Rage Against The Machine, and more can immerse themselves in the raw energy and defiant spirit of Grunge and ’90s Alternative Rock with The Year Grunge Broke, a true homage to the Grunge and Alternative Rock. Tickets €17.50. More info here
It’s Fubar Friday (Christmas Special) with DJ CC & DJ Arsenik in Mickey Martins from 8pm
The Last Latin Party of 2024 with Latin Pint and DJ Sammy kicks off in Mollys at 9pm. Tickets €6. More info here
The Rambler is in the Glen Tavern from 9.30pm
The Roadrunners are in the Blue Bar (Green Yard Café) at 9.30pm
Strictly Rhythem is back in the Record Room with Niall Colgan playing a full classic set from the legendary 90’s club Strictly Rhythem from 10pm til late. Free Entry. More info here
Sweet Freedom are in the Old Quarter from 10.30pm
Finish your night off with the Dolans After Party on the Dolans Terrace from 10.30pm
Saturday 28th December
The Milk Market Food Market is open from 8am to 3pm
Parkrun is a free, weekly, timed 5k run that takes place every Saturday morning at 9.30am. Limerick has Parkruns at the UL Boathouse, Mungret Park and The Demense in Newcastle West. All you need to do is register once on parkrun.com to get your barcode and you can show up to any of the events.
The Wickham Way Market Stalls & Food Court will be open 10am to 3pm (food court open til late).
The Mooreabbey Mile Challenge takes place in Gallbally at 11am. Whether you’re looking to break the 4 minutes, beat your PB or just dust off the Christmas crumbs then this event will suit all levels of runners and the whole family. €5 for Under 18s and €8 for Over 18s. More info here
The Christmas Racing Festival takes place at the Limerick Racecourse. First race is 12pm approx. with the last race at 15.27pm. Tickets €25 for adults, €20 for students/OAPs, €75 for Family tickets €75 and €5 for juvenile. Children under 12 go free. More info here
The Big Limerick Seisiún with live music and dance takes place every evening in the Locke Bar at 5pm and 9pm
Bad Reputation & Friends presents Irish Metal for the Children of Palestine in Dolans Warehouse at 8pm. Featuring five of Ireland’s finest Metal bands: Partholón, Zealot Cult, Worn Out, God Alone and Shardborne. All profits donated to UNICEF Gaza Appeal. Tickets €15. More info here
The 4 of Us play Dolans Upstairs at 8pm. Hailing from Newry, Northern Ireland, The 4 of Us has been captivating audiences for over three decades with their soulful melodies and compelling lyrics. Brothers Brendan & Declan Murphy will perform the highlights of their award-winning career, along with new material from their upcoming album Crescent Nights. This show will be a chance to hear Mary, Washington Down, She Hits Me and many more classics. Tickets €31.50. More info here
The Wild Geeze presents Mischief & Mistletoe, a Christmas cabaret, in the Record Room from 8.30pm. A vivacious variety show filled with comedy, burlesque, music, drag and more! Limerick’s local stocking stuffer & hostess with the mostess, Laura LaVelle will guide you through a live comedy cabaret! Tickets from €15. More info here
It’s the Saturday Sessions (Christmas Edition) with DJ Evan Quaid in Mickey Martins at 9.30pm
One to One are in the Glen Tavern from 9.30pm
The Roadrunners are in the Blue Bar (Green Yard Café) at 9.30pm
Off the Record are in the Old Quarter from 10.30pm
Finish your night off with the Dolans After Party on the Dolans Terrace from 10.30pm
Sunday 29th December
The Milk Market Outdoor Cafe is open from 11am to 3pm with live music, crafts, antiques and vintage goods
The Wickham Way Food Court will be open from 12pm to 6pm (exact opening hours vary for each food truck)
Dave Keary and Brian O’Connor play a special Matinee show in Dolans Upstairs at 5pm. Tickets €20. More info here
The Big Limerick Seisiún with live music and dance takes place every evening in the Locke Bar at 5pm and 9pm
It’s Bottomless Christmas: Boybands vs Girlbands in the Black Rabbit from 5.30pm. Celebrate the festive season with an unmissable night of live music, delicious food, and bottomless drinks. Whether you’re planning the ultimate Christmas party or just looking for some festive fun with friends, this is the perfect event to get into the holiday spirit. Tickets from €20.
It’s Manchester Night in Dolans Warehouse from 7pm, featuring These Charming Men (Tribute to the Smiths) and Digital (Tribute to Joy Division). Followed a DJ set from the legend Eoin Devereux. Tickets €20. More info here
SOLD OUT Dave Keary and Brian O’Connor are in Dolans Upstairs at 8.30pm. Tickets €20. More info here
It’s a Games Night Christmas Edition with DJ Greg in Mickey Martins from 6pm
The Lockys are in the Blue Bar (Green Yard Café) at 7pm
Joe Moloney is in the Glen Tavern from 9.30pm
After Shock are in the Old Quarter from 10.30pm
That’s all for this week’s Limerick Events Guide. So, what you’re looking forward to?
If we missed an event, drop us a message. We’ll be adding more as we go on. Check out some recent posts:
