Magic Christmas celebration planned for the Hook
Santa Claus will be visiting Hook Lighthouse in December. Photo by Colin Shanahan - DigiCol Photography (c) www.digicolphotography.com
Hook Lighthouse - the world’s oldest operational lighthouse - is set to shine brighter than ever this year with a magical festive celebration perfect for the whole family.
Santa Claus himself will be making a very special stop at this historic beacon, to bring joy, cheer and a sprinkle of holiday magic to visitors of all ages.
On December 6, 7, 13 and 14, he will be welcoming little ones for enchanting meet-and-greet sessions from 10am to 4.30pm.
It promises to be a truly exceptional experience as people will have the opportunity to step inside the ancient lighthouse tower to meet Santa, where he will await by a cosy fireplace, ready to listen to Christmas wishes and spread festive cheer.
The lighthouse, which is situated on the Hook Peninsula in County Wexford, overlooks an expansive seascape including the Waterford Estuary.
"Each child will leave with a selection box and a cup of hot chocolate to warm their spirits," said a spokesperson for the lighthouse.
"It’s a perfect opportunity for families to create cherished memories in a uniquely atmospheric setting," she added.
Tickets for what promises to be a truly magical experience are €10 per child.
Hook Lighthouse is open every day, until 2pm on December 19, and it will reopen on December 26, to host its famous St. Stephen’s Day Breakfast from 10am to 1pm - a perfect way to keep the festive spirit glowing with delicious food and warm hospitality.
A unique St. Stephen’s Day tradition at the Hook will see the lighthouse facilitate the celebration of ‘Daisy Day,’ a charming local tradition dating back to 1943, recorded as 'A Penny for a Daisy.'
Historically, large groups of children would search for the first flower of the year and receive pennies for their finds. According to the Hook Lighthouse spokesperson: “The child who found the first daisy would win the hunt, but many children would receive pennies from families in the area.”
This year, the hunt will take place again, with children receiving a chocolate penny for their efforts.
Hook Lighthouse is renowned as the oldest, intact working lighthouse in the world.
Since the 5th century, monks have lit fires there to keep ships safe at sea.
Visitors can take a tour, featuring 115 steps, to the top of the lighthouse tower, with immersive holograms illustrating the rich history of the tower and the Hook area, along with spectacular views of Ireland’s southern coast.
For more details, visit www.hookheritage.ie
