Enchanted Winter Garden 2026 Returns to Antrim Castle Gardens This Christmas

The Enchanted Winter Garden 2026 will take place at Antrim Castle Gardens from 2 to 28 December 2026. Visitors can enjoy illuminated gardens, festive food, fairground rides and Christmas entertainment.

Special inclusive evenings are scheduled for 3 and 9 December, while Antrim and Newtownabbey residents can benefit from discounted admission.

Tickets are available now through the official Enchanted Winter Garden booking website.

Enchanted Winter Garden Returns to Antrim for Christmas 2026

One of Northern Ireland’s biggest festive attractions is preparing to welcome thousands of visitors this Christmas.

The Enchanted Winter Garden 2026 will transform Antrim Castle Gardens into a spectacular illuminated wonderland from Wednesday 2 December until Monday 28 December.

Families, couples and groups of friends can look forward to a magical Christmas experience, with dazzling light displays, festive entertainment and attractions for all ages.

Organisers are promising familiar favourites alongside new additions to this year’s event.

Visitors are encouraged to book their preferred date and time slot early to avoid disappointment.

What Can Visitors Expect at Enchanted Winter Garden 2026?

The popular Christmas attraction offers a range of experiences throughout the historic gardens.

Visitors can enjoy:

• The Enchanted Way: A magical illuminated trail featuring colourful Christmas lighting displays.
• The Giant Wheel: Spectacular views across the festive attraction.
• The Wave Swinger: A popular fairground ride returning for 2026.
• Festive Food Fayre: Seasonal food, drinks and Christmas treats.
• Santa’s Grotto: A chance for younger visitors to meet Father Christmas.
• New attractions: Additional rides joining this year’s festive programme.
• The Grinch: A welcome return after Christmas.

Visitors should be aware that some attractions, including fairground rides and Santa’s Grotto, carry additional charges.

Further information is available on the official Enchanted Winter Garden website.

The Grinch Returns After Christmas

The festive fun will continue after Christmas Day, with the Grinch returning to Antrim Castle Gardens.

Families visiting on 27 and 28 December will have an opportunity to enjoy the post-Christmas entertainment.

The extended programme means visitors can experience the Enchanted Winter Garden even after Santa has returned to the North Pole.

Find out more about the programme at Enchanted Winter Garden.

Inclusive Enchantment Evenings Announced

Organisers have confirmed two special Evenings of Inclusive Enchantment for visitors who would benefit from a quieter and more relaxed environment.

The evenings will take place on:

• Thursday 3 December 2026
• Wednesday 9 December 2026

These sessions will feature reduced capacity, static lighting, lower sound levels and slower-paced rides.

Sensory and quiet rooms will also be available to help visitors enjoy the experience comfortably.

Mobility scooters and wheelchairs can be hired by appointment, while Changing Places facilities will be available on site.

Visitors requiring additional accessibility information should consult the official accessibility and frequently asked questions before booking.

Free Shuttle Bus Service Available

Visitors will be able to use a free shuttle bus service operating from The Junction Retail and Leisure Park.

The service will transport passengers directly to the entrance of Antrim Castle Gardens, offering a convenient alternative to parking near the attraction.

Visitors should check the official event website for the latest shuttle arrangements before travelling.

Enchanted Winter Garden 2026 Ticket Prices

Tickets are available to purchase online, with both standard admission and discounted rates for Antrim and Newtownabbey residents.

Standard Admission

• Adult: £15.50
• Child (2–17 years): £10.50
• Under 2: Free (50p booking fee)
• Family ticket: £46.50

Antrim and Newtownabbey Resident Rates

• Adult: £8.50
• Child (2–17 years): £6.50
• Under 2: Free (50p booking fee)
• Family ticket: £26.50

A family ticket covers either one adult and three children or two adults and two children.

Residents should follow the instructions on the booking website to access the discounted rates.

For additional information about admission and attractions, visit the official Enchanted Winter Garden FAQs.

Mayor Welcomes Return of Popular Christmas Event

Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Henry Cushinan, welcomed the event’s return.

“Enchanted Winter Garden is a wonderful way for families and friends to come together. I look forward to welcoming visitors to Antrim and Newtownabbey to experience the festive atmosphere and all that our Borough has to offer this Christmas.”

The annual attraction is expected to bring thousands of visitors into the borough throughout December.

For information about the local area and council services, visit Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council.

How to Book Enchanted Winter Garden 2026

Tickets can be purchased directly through the official booking website.

Visitors can select their preferred date and entry time, making it easier to plan a festive family outing.

With popular dates likely to attract significant demand, early booking is recommended.

Book your Enchanted Winter Garden 2026 tickets here.

Looking for more festive activities? Visit Northern Ireland Online’s Events Guide for upcoming Christmas markets, family attractions and events across Northern Ireland.