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Antrim's Enchanted Winter Garden among Christmas events for children with specific needs

The Enchanted Winter Garden takes place in Antrim Castle Gardens 
The Enchanted Winter Garden takes place in Antrim Castle Gardens  The Enchanted Winter Garden takes place in Antrim Castle Gardens 

ANTRIM Castle Gardens is holding a Christmas event for children and adults with specific needs as the town's Enchanted Winter Garden returns.

The 'Evening of Inclusive Enchantment' takes place on December 18 from 4-9pm and is aimed at people sensitive to noise, lights and crowds.

During the event, music levels will be lowered and rides slowed down while strobe lighting will be switched off.

This year there are a number of new attractions, including a Vintage Wave Swinger, a Victorian Helter Skelter and an Extended Wonderland Wood.

The evening has been split into three time slots: 4pm, 5.30pm and 7pm. To minimise queue times, visitors are advised to arrive promptly, with the event closing to all at 9pm. Last admission is 8pm but it is recommended guests take at least 90 minutes to fully enjoy the experience. 

Tickets are available from Antrim and Newtownabbey Council's website.

The general Enchanted Winter Garden event runs from December 7 to 17.

The Enchanted Winter Garden takes place in Antrim Castle Gardens 
The Enchanted Winter Garden takes place in Antrim Castle Gardens  The Enchanted Winter Garden takes place in Antrim Castle Gardens 

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CastleCourt shopping centre in Belfast will be holding free Santa visits on the following dates and times:

  • Saturday 8th December 10am – 11am
  • Friday 14th December 11am – 12pm

The visit includes a free gift and families can purchase some keepsakes to make memories last. For further info please contact CastleCourt on 028 9023 4591

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Todds Leap activity centre in Ballygawley Co Tyrone is holding a sensory winter wonderland on Wednesday December 12 and Thursday December 13 where children and adults with specific needs can meet Santa, Mrs Claus and all the elves.

Visitors will be able to enjoy activities including helping the elves in Santa's workshop, seeing Santa's reindeer and taking a sleigh ride to Mrs Claus' cabin. Guests will also receive a present from Santa.

Tickets cost £10 per adult and £16 per child and can be booked by calling 02885 567170.