Spraoi agus Spórt’s sensory-friendly Christmas experience in Carndonagh

Step into the magic of Christmas in Carndonagh! Tír na Nollag returns this festive season, creating a warm, welcoming, and sensory-friendly Christmas experience designed especially for children of all abilities.

It takes place at the Spraoi agus Spórt Nursery & Garden Centre on Moss Road, Carndonagh from December 11-15. Organisers, Spraoi agus Spórt, say the ‘winter wonderland’ has been thoughtfully crafted to ensure every child can enjoy the wonder of Christmas in a calm, comfortable, and inclusive environment.

“Tír na Nollag has sensory adaptations, creative programming, and a focus on accessibility, says Spraoi agus Spórt CEO Helen Nolan. “The event offers a magical celebration where all families feel at home and enjoy this special Christmas event together without stress."

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It’s the second time that they have run this special Winter Wonderland event, she says.“Last year’s experience was “warmly received by families and staff.” Helen says they are “delighted to continue offering a festive space that feels safe, accessible and joyful for every child.”

One parent said, “It was the first time their family could experience Santa together something they never thought possible.”

Tír na Nollag 2025 is supported by Community Foundation Ireland through ChristmasFM’s Magic of Christmas Appeal, and Spraoi agus Spórt. Their support allows the programme to welcome hundreds of local children, including those with autism and sensory processing differences.

At the heart of the experience is a specially designed sensory-adapted Santa’s Grotto, explains Helen. “Families can book private visits here tailored to the needs of each child. Lighting, sound and pacing are adjusted to ensure that every child can meet Santa in a way that feels comfortable, relaxed and enjoyable.”

The grotto is complemented by a variety of festive workshops, including arts and crafts, storytelling sessions and bauble decorating activities, each created to inspire creativity while remaining fully accessible.

Children will also be able to explore interactive light displays and tactile play zones, offering a gentle and safe sensory experience throughout the venue. Every child who attends will receive a new age-appropriate book to take home, reinforcing Spraoi agus Spórt’s commitment to encouraging reading, imagination and family bonding.

Nicola McLaughlin is the Magic of Christmas Project Coordinator for Spraoi agus Spórt. She says Tír na Nollag is “a celebration of inclusion, creativity and community. Our aim is to ensure that every child, regardless of ability, has the chance to enjoy the wonder of Christmas in a setting that feels welcoming and supportive. Thanks to the generosity of Community Foundation Ireland and ChristmasFM Magic of Christmas, we can create a magical space where families can relax, connect and experience the joy of the season together.”

Tír na Nollag is free to attend, but booking is essential due to high demand, advises Nicola. Families can view available times– including ‘Quiet Santa’ on 13th December - through the Spraoi agus Spórt website. The website also offers workshops and activities such as Christmas Bauble and Gingerbread Decorating and a Christmas Wreath making workshop.