A Month of Christmas Cheer!

So, it’s December already. This year has just flown in. Time to start making plans for Christmas meet ups and family days out. Dublin has so many Christmas events taking place around the city this month so why not take in the Christmas atmosphere and see just why it’s the most wonderful time of the year.   

A Christmas day out with the Family

Santa's Playland

Santa’s Playland is a fantastic fun-filled experience for the kids which allows them to enter into a magical Christmas wonderland of playtime.  It is filled with Christmas treats, bouncy castles, slides and Christmas displays.

To top it all off the children are visited by Santa and get the chance to sit down with him to let him know what they are hoping for when he comes to visit on the 25^th. They will also receive a gift from Santa on their visit.

Ambassador Theatre.

Monday to Friday - Doors open 12.00pm, last entrance 7.00pm 

Saturday and Sunday - Doors open 10.00am, last entrance at 7.00pm Tickets €10 Monday to Friday, Tickets €12 Saturdays and Sundays.

ADULTS ARE FREE!

Christmas Wonderland

The one that all kids are waiting for, Christmas Wonderland, returns to the RDS on 6^th December 2013. With Ice-Skating, Funderland and a Circus, there is something for everyone at Christmas Wonderland.

ISkate:

Ice-skating is a Christmas favourite for many. I-Skate is Ireland’s largest ice rink and with its penguin balancing aids and double-bladed skates it’s suitable for everyone aged 3 and upwards. There are special off-peak, group and family rates available.

Funderland:

This year Funderland celebrates its 40^th anniversary and so it is no surprise that for many people around the country it is tradition that goes back many years at this stage. Even as an adult though you still get the same excitement that you did when you were brought there as a child. With all the different fast rides, the music, the games the arcade and the atmosphere around the place it is not hard to see why it is a family favourite. Opt to go with a pay-as-you go method or avail of the wristbands which give you 3 consecutive hours of unlimited rides (subject to the height & weight restrictions). Buy your wrist band online before you go and get an extra hour free.

Santa’s Christmas Circus:

Why not try something new this Christmas with the Magical World of Circus. Presented by the world famous Fossett family, Santa's Christmas Circus includes jugglers, acrobats, aerial daredevils and Circus Illusionists as well as Otto the clowns as he tries to help Santa make his way back to the North Pole.  Marion Fossett will also lead the circus artists and audience in a seasonal sing-a-long. Expect to be amazed and entertained.

www.christmaswonderland.ie  

The magic of the Nutcracker

Dublin Castle is giving you the chance every Saturday & Sunday in December to enter the magical world of the Nutcracker. This on definitely be a magical day out for the family. The State Apartments of Dublin Castle will be decorated in the Nutcracker theme as well as having Characters from the fairytale. There will be Drosselmeyer’s children’s magic show each Saturday (12pm – 3pm) and Children’s Storytelling with Clara every Sunday (12pm – 3pm). There will also be plenty of surprises for the little ones along the way including meeting Santa and posting their letter.  On top of all of this there will also be ballet performances in the ballroom and tasty treats from Christmas vendors.  

Price: Adult €4.50, Children €2.00, Senior Citizens/ Students €3.50

www.dublincastle.ie  

Christmas Shows for big and small kids alike.

Christmas Panto

Christmas Pantos is a firm favourite in many households around the country and is always huge hit with the kids. With different Pantos in a number of Theatres you will have your choice shows……..or you can go see more that one.  This year the Christmas Pantos are;

·         The Gaitey Theatre Panto: Snow White and The Seven Dwarfs

Date:
 - December 4^th 2013 – 12th January 2014.
 - Previews commence December 1^st  

·        The Olympia Theatre Panto: Beauty and the Beast starring Jedward  

Date:- 18 December  -  5 January

·        The Tivoli  Theatre: Cherios Jack and the Beanstalk

Date:- 11 December 2013  - 12 January 2014

The Snowman Christmas Special

Who doesn’t love the story of The Snowman? Such a beautiful film that has been watched at home Christmas after Christmas for years. Now following on from its on-going sell-out successes all over the world, The Snowman Movie makes its premiere this December in The O2 Dublin. This is your chance to watch it on an enormous 60 foot screen while Shay Byrne of RTÉ Radio tells the much loved story of James and the flying Snowman accompanied by the Irish Philharmonic Orchestra.

This really special event is on for one day only – December 8^th. The 3pm show has sold out already but you still have a chance to get your tickets for the 6pm showing (limited seats available).

http://theo2.ie/index.php/artist/the-snowman-christmas-special/225

Christmas markets to get something a little extra special.....

Airtricity Dockland’s Christmas Festival

Now on its 9^th Year and promising to be the best one yet, The Docklands Christmas Festival returns to fantastic surroundings of George’s Dock from December 12^th – 23^rd.  With an entertainment area, The Victorian Carnival, the fantastic artisan food and craft market and of course Santa's grotto, it will be impossible not to get that Christmas feeling when you are there.

Opening hours: 
- Monday - Friday 12.00pm-10.00pm
- Saturday - Sunday 10.00am - 10.00pm

Dublin Castle's Festive Market

If you are thinking of attending the The Magic of The Nutcracker at Dublin Castle in December and also considering a visit to a Christmas Market well then you’re in luck. You don’t even have to have to worry about trekking from one side of the city to the other trying to fit it all in. Make a day of it without even having to change venue. Each Saturday and Sunday in December Dublin Castle’s upper courtyard will be transformed into a traditional Christmas market. Take in the fabulous surrounding of Dublin Castle & listen to the choir performing under the tree from 1.30pm – 3.30pm while enjoying some treats from the Christmas vendors including mulled wine, hot chocolate, gingerbread cookies and traditional chimney cake.

On Sunday 15th December the craft fair will take place inside the Bedford Hall. Some of Ireland's best craftsmen, artists and designers will be displaying and selling their work, from pottery to hand knitted scarves and beautiful ceramics to Irish chocolates.

Dame District Christmas Market

With over 24 stalls selling handmade crafts, jewellery, toys, gormet food and drink, plus entertainment from top Irish music and comedy acts, it is one that will fill you with Christmas cheer and excitment. Each night a free concert takes place on the Christmas Stage as well as live Christmas entertainment on two other stages.You can visit this ever growing popular market at Dame Lane from December 13^th – 22^nd.

Grand Canal Hotel is located just 10 minutes walk from Grafton street and is next to Grand Canal Dart station as well as being serviced by numerous buses making it a great location wherever you need to go. We have a great Retail Therapy Package available from the December 15th - January 31st so whether you want to shop for Christmas gifts or get a bargain in the January sales, we have you covered! 

Book your say with Grand Canal Hotel. 

Looking for an extra spcial gift for you friends or loved ones? Why not treat them to lovely getaway with Grand Canal Hotel or Theatre Package Voucher. 

WICKED Dinner & Ticket Package

WICKED Dinner & Ticket Package

29th & 30th November

Don’t miss your chance to see Wicked on stage at the Bord Gais Energy Theatre. This critically acclaimed production is a must-see, filled with colour, magnetism and brilliant songs that you’ll still be singing days after the show.  

                                                                                                                                                       

Make the most of your evening and avail of our Dinner & Show Package:

•2-Course Pre-Theatre Meal; Starter & Main Course, Tea & Coffee

•Ticket to the Show in Upper Circle

Just €79 per person. (Paid in full at time of booking and is non-refundable)

Book Now. Call 01-6461000.

Here at the Grand Canal Hotel, we have a Theatre Packages all year round. Take a look to see what shows are currently available. 

Kids Halloween Costumes

Yes its coming up to that time of year again................Halloween. Need to come up with some costume ideas for the kids? Here are a few really cool ones that we found and just had to share with you.

1. Gnome

2. Farmer and Tractor 

3. Cupcake

4. Free Puppies

Who doesn't love babies and puppies......and free ones at that

5. Pinnocchio

 

6. Cabbage Patch Kid

This one is perfect for the little kiddies that need to stay in their buggy for trick-or-treating.

7. Beetle Juice 

This is a great costume on its own but you can also get the whole family involved if you wanted to go all out on it!! 

8. Audrey Hepburn

So many little girls would love getting dressed up like this......you could even do a Mummy and Daughter matching costumes for this one. 

8. Colonel Sanders

Image giving out free pieces of chicken too!!!.........Everyone would pick you as their favourite costume :)

9.  Popcorn

Perfect for carrying the really little ones around. 

10. Star Wars

These ones are adorable.....look at the little Ewok!!

 

11. Up
There are no words for this one............just look at how cute he is......aaawwwwhhhhhh!!!!

Family Friendly Dublin Attractions

When staying in Dublin there are so many visitor attractions that you can go see. We have put together our top 6 family friendly spots  that we think are ones for the list when visiting the capital city.

1. Dublinia

Right in the heart of Medieval Dublin, next to Christ Church Cathedral, there are 3 exhibitions to be experienced in Dublinia. Both “Viking Dublin” & “Medieval Dublin” will bring you back in time to how life was in Dublin in those historic days – walk down a Viking street and visit a Viking house  as well as seeing what life on board a Viking ship would have been like. “Historic Hunters” is the third exhibition which brings you into the world of Archaeology. See excavation sites and a lab which will give you an insight into Dublin City and allow you to see it in a whole new light.

(Inside Dublinia)

2. Viking Splash Tour
A favourite amongst many visitors, both young and old, the Viking Splash Tour allows you to see the city from land and water in the reconditioned World War II military vehicles known as “Ducks”. The tour will bring you around the city to the many attractions it has to offer while also teaching you about the history of the city; from the Vikings who settled here over a 1,000 years ago right through to the Dublin becoming a cosmopolitan European city.

(View Dublin by land and water with the Viking Splash Tour)

3. National Wax Museum
The Wax Museum – a firm favourite for the list of attractions to visit on any city break. Everyone enjoys a good Wax Museum! At the National Wax Museum not only can you view the wax version of many well-known faces and get your picture taken with them but you can also visit the fully functioning recording studio and green screen video room, take a journey through Ireland cultural heritage and check out the tribute to Ireland’s top scientific inventors.

(The National Wax Museum Entrance)

4. GAA Museum
Interested in the history of the country’s National games? Well then go behind the scene of Gaelic Football and Hurling with this interactive touch-screen technology and test your own skills in the interactive zone. Test your passing skills and how quick you can react along with the many other skills required for these two fantastic national games. You can also do the Croke Park Stadium Tour while you are there.  Take the opportunity to walk through the players tunnel and visit their lounge as well as the corporate boxes with the best seats in the house and then top it all off with a birds eye views of this 82,300 capacity iconic stadium.

(GAA Museum Croke Park)

5. Science Gallery
Located at Trinity College, this public gallery has various exhibitions, lectures and workshops. There are no permanent collections but instead a series of 4-6 temporary exhibitions each year so there is always something new to see for those who wish to visit on a number of occasions.

(The Science Gallery at Trinity College)

6. Dublin Zoo
Dublin Zoo, located in Pheonix Park (one of the largest city parks in Europe), is one of Dublin's biggest attractions. It is home to over 400 animals and has been open since 1830. There is so much to see at Dublin Zoo. There are lions, tigers, hippos, seals, elephants, gorillas, orangutans, chimpanzees, red pandas and penguins to name just a few of the many fascinating animals that can be seen at Dublin Zoo.  

(Gorillas at Dublin Zoo)

Book your stay at Grand Canal Hotel by calling 01-6461000 or visit our website.

Get details on our Theatre Package deals. 

The Dublin Dragon Boat Regatta with Plurabelle Paddlers

Saturday & Sunday, 14^th & 15^thSeptember 2013

Plurabelle Paddlers - A breast cancer suppoert group with a difference

This weekend, The Dublin Dragon Boat Regatta will take place at Grand Canal Dock, Dublin 4. It is in association with Plurabelle Paddlers which is a dragon boat team with members who have one thing in common - they have been diagnosed with breast cancer. The dragon boat team which is based in Grand Canal Dock was set up in order for the team memebrs to:
- get fit
- enjoy the mutual support of team mates
- raise awareness of breast cancer.

When the team was set up all of the team members were new to the sport and their inspiration had come from the 150 or so breast cancer dragon boat teams that have been set up all over the world.

All of the crew spaces have already been filled however you can still get a ticket for the Regatta Party Saturday Night at Ely Gastro & tickets for a raffle for flights to Ho Chi Ming City thanks to Etihad.  Purchase your ticket directly from the Plurabelle Paddlerswebsite…………and don’t forget to go down and cheers all of the teams on!!

We are delighted to have two of the teams staying with us here in the Grand Canal Hotel this weekend and we wish everyone taking part the best of luck.  What a great cause! Visit the Plurabelle Paddlers website to get more information, view pictures and videos or make a donation. 

 

War Horse

War Horse @ The Bord Gais Energy Theatre

26th March 2014 - 26th April 2014

We went to see a War Horse preview in the Bord Gais Energy Theatre yesterday afternoon and I must say it was fantastic. We are very excited to see the full show when it arrives here in Dublin in March.

The play, based on the celebrated novel by Michael Morpurgo, centres around the love of a boy for his horse against the background of World War I. The main feature in the play is the handmade, life-size horse puppet, Joey which is operated by three puppeteers. The puppetry in the show is amazing. You completely forget that the animal is not real and get lost in the story and the characters of this great play. "Truly magnificent creations by the Handspring Puppet Company." The Daily Telepgraph.

The first stage production of War Horse was in London in 2007 and it has been a roaring success since day one. This fantastic play comes to Ireland for the first time ever in March 2014.

Having seen the short snippet of what to expect in March, we are really looking forward to seeing the play in full.



We have War Horse Theatre Packages available for you to avail of. Why not make a night of it and stay over night in the Grand Canal Hotel (8 minute walk from the Theatre), have a Pre-Theatre Meal the night of the show and a Full Irish Breakfast the next morning............and we have Free Car Parking!

View other theatre packages currently available. 

www.grandcanalhotel.com

00353(0)16461000

Weight Watchers - Lunchtime Classes

Feeling like you may have overdone it over the summer? Need to lose some weight or just get back to a health lifestyle? Well then, WeightWatchers hold a lunchtime classes every Tuesday at the Grand Canal Hotel Ballsbridge. Pop in on your lunch break so that you don't have to lose any time from your evenings.   

What better time to get back on track than September - “We're making a fresh start. If you’re suffering from Summer food overload, now is the time to make a start to a slimmer you”

If you have been a member before and are looking to rejoin then now is the time “When you join or rejoin any Weight Watchers class by September 28th AND stay for the new member 5 minute session after the class talk, you'll receive a gift card that's valid until December 21st.Because we know things don't always go to plan, if you miss a week or more you can use this Gift Card to return to class for the weekly fee.”

Take a look at some of WeightWatchers' healthy recipes:

http://www.weightwatchers.ie/food/healthy-recipes.html

WeightWatchers’ aim is:
• To promote Health of Body and Mind
• To pass on knowledge gained from past personal experience
• And to encourage Members to become part of this constant learning process

If you want more information check them out on Facebook or go to  their website.

Book your conference room with Grand Canal Hotel or arrange a viewing by contacting Linda 01-6461000. 

www.grandcanalhotel.com 

01-6461000

Meet Sylwia

Meet Slywia, Slywia works in Canal Express here in Grand Canal Hotel.She is friendly and bubbly and will always start your day off with a smile! Whether you are grabbing a morning coffee to go or sitting down for a light lunch with a friend, Sylwia will always greet you with her friendly smile and ensure that you have a really pleasant experience. 

• How long have you been working in Canal Express? 

Slywia: "I have been working for the Hotel for 5 years and have been in Canal Express for the last 2 years."

• What can your customers get in Canal Express? 

S: "You can get all the normal hot beverages and pastries. We have introduced smoothies and iced-coffees which are very popular.We have cereal, porridge, toast or fruit salad. We also have a lobby menu which has Light Bites such as Caesar Salad, Tempura Prawn and Vegetable Platter , Nachos and a selection of sandwiches. As well as that we have a selection of wines and deserts."

• What is your favorite part about working in Canal Express? 

S: "oh the customers for sure. I love my customers. I have a lot of regulars that come everyday. I really enjoy talking with them".

• What languages do you speak?

S: "Polish and English"

• What are the opening times for Canal Express for anybody that wants to pop in?

S: "Canal Express is open from 7.15 am - 2.15 pm"

CATS Dinner & Ticket Package

ONLY 1 MORE DAY to go before CATS The Musical begins its run in the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre!!!

CATS The Musical 

Here at the Grand Canal Hotel and The Gasworks Bar we are offering a CATS Dinner & Ticket Package:

Dates: 
24th & 31st August and 7th September

What are we offering?
2 Course Pre-Show Meal, Starter and Main Course at 5.00/5.30pm and Upper Circle tickets for €69 per person. 

To book, call 01-6461000 (*non refundable deposit taken at time of booking)

Click here to view other shows and packages available from Grand Canal Hotel.