WITH 84 days until Christmas, the search for the perfect Christmas party venue is on!
By Dearbhla Parry
From delicious four-course meals, hopping live music, and midnight Tayto sandwiches, to even meeting Santa himself, Clare is more than ready for Christmas.
But, whether it’s for a family get-together or the seasonal office party, finding somewhere that suits everyone can be tough, especially when trying to find somewhere local. That’s why we at The Clare Echo want to make your Christmas party planning a whole lot easier by pointing you to the most fabulous of Clare venues and providing some insider tips to get the most out of your experience.
Lakeside Hotel
Lakeside Hotel’s Christmas Party Night on the 27th of November is the perfect way to gather colleagues, friends, or family and toast to the most wonderful time of the year. Enjoy a sumptuous festive banquet set against the breathtaking backdrop of the River Shannon. With live entertainment from Traffic to keep the dance floor buzzing late into the night, it’s a chance to laugh, sing, and celebrate together in style.
Tip: Add in The Lakeside Hotel’s luxurious accommodation, and your Christmas night out can become a magical overnight stay, waking up to the serenity of Lough Derg on a crisp winter’s morning.
Book by calling 061 376122 or emailing info@lakesidehotel.ie.
Temple Gate Hotel
What better way to celebrate Christmas than in the heart of Ennis town? The Temple Gate Hotel invites you to experience the magic of the season with their renowned Christmas Party Nights. Their party packages include a delicious festive menu and live entertainment late into the night…the perfect way to toast the Christmas season in style.
Tip: The Temple Gate Hotel also cater for private parties, corporate gatherings, and family celebrations, offering tailored menus and dedicated event spaces to suit your group’s needs. And of course, why not make a night of it? Stay over in one of their comfortable guest rooms and enjoy a leisurely breakfast the next morning, extending the celebrations a little longer.
Book by calling 065 682 3300, emailing sales@templegatehotel.com, or visiting www.templategatehotel.com.
The Inn at Dromoland
Join The Inn at Dromoland and their award-winning team for unmissable Christmas Party nights on December 5th, 6th, 12th or 13th. Kick off your evening with a mulled wine arrival reception before indulging in a fabulous festive four-course dinner. MC Dary Fahy will keep you entertained throughout the meal with games, dance-offs, and quizzes for the chance to win some amazing prizes, including hotel getaways and dining vouchers! Some of Ireland’s finest musical acts, Switch & The Gamblers, are providing must-dance-to entertainment, multiplying the fun even more!
Tip: A midnight snack will be on offer, giving one last extra boost of energy before the final hours of a DJ set.
Book by calling 061 368161 or emailing info@theinnatdromoland.ie.
Nora’s
Anyone who has been to Nora’s will know that there is always great music playing and this year will be no different. They have a number of areas suitable for group Christmas parties, such as the sophisticated Balcony Bar upstairs with its own outdoor area, the classic and comfortable Lounge Area downstairs, or the cosy Whiskey Bar with its dramatic cabinetry displaying Nora’s impressive and growing Whiskey collection.
Tip: While Nora’s don’t have their own kitchen, they are happy to arrange to bring in party food for customers.
Book by calling 065 6824954 or messaging Nora’s on Facebook or Instagram.
The Old Ground Hotel
The Old Ground Hotel’s Christmas Party Nights on December 12th, 13th, and 19th are a festive experience like no other and the perfect opportunity to gather with friends, family, or colleagues and get into the joyful spirit of Christmas. Their culinary team has prepared a sumptuous four-course meal that includes all your festive favourites. From traditional roast turkey with all the trimmings to tasty desserts, brought together with an inviting aroma of mulled wine, you’re in for a culinary treat.
Tip: For those seeking a more intimate celebration, The Old Ground offer the option of hosting private parties in their Maguire suite. If you prefer a more casual dining atmosphere, their Brendan O’Regan Restaurant and Town Hall Bistro are also open for your enjoyment.
Book by calling 065 6892321 or emailing sales@oldgroundhotel.ie.
Hotel Woodstock
This December, step into the warmth and wonder of the festive season at Hotel Woodstock’s Christmas Parties on December 5th, 6th, 12th, 13th & 19th for just €69 per person. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be greeted with a mulled wine and traditional music reception, setting the perfect festive tone for the evening. Let the laughter flow as ex Clare FM, MC Stephen McDermott, keeps the night buzzing, leading into unforgettable live entertainment with the ever-popular Will Leahy from RTÉ. Between courses, you’ll enjoy lively games, exciting spot prizes, and plenty of surprises to keep the energy high. And the night doesn’t stop there… once the dinner plates are cleared, the dancefloor opens! Their DJ will keep you moving with all the classics until late into the night, finishing with the much-loved tradition of Tayto sandwiches at midnight.
Tip: If you want a private celebration, lunch, or dinner in Shanaway Bistro or a private dining room, or their famous overnight residential Santa package, Hotel Woodstock would love to look after you.
Book by calling 065 6899800 or emailing info@hotelwoodstock.ie.
Knox’s
One of Ennis’ most iconic buildings, Knox’s Pub and The Storehouse Restaurant, has everything you need to celebrate the Christmas season in style. Whether you’re planning a sit-down dinner, a casual get-together with finger food, or simply festive drinks in the pub, Knox’s has a package to suit every group. For those looking to go all out, The Storehouse upstairs offers a full Christmas set Dinner menu with two courses plus prosecco for €38.95 or three courses for €38.95 per person. Downstairs, the pub offers the ever-popular Finger Food Menu at just €11.50 per person, perfect for more relaxed gatherings. Christmas Lunch group menus are also available daily from 12pm to 3pm in Knox’s Pub, with great value options: €16 for one course, €26 for two courses, or €31 for three courses. Alongside these festive specials, Knox’s will also serve bar food every day from 12 noon to 9pm throughout the season.
Tip: Groups can enjoy drinks on a tab system, organised with wristbands, while soaking up the buzz of the season and as always, Knox’s Pub will have the best of live bands with DJs and late bars until 2am every weekend!
Book by calling 065 6822871 or emailing info@knoxs.ie.
Shannon Springs Hotel
This Christmas, Shannon Springs Hotel have created a magical atmosphere in their charming Old Lodge Gastro Pub. Enjoy a sumptuous four-course Christmas dinner, complete with all the traditional trimmings. Their exclusive Party Package includes a warm welcome with mulled wine on arrival. From office parties to family get-togethers, Shannon Springs Hotel have the perfect setting for every occasion. Let their attentive staff handle every detail while you focus on making memories with your loved ones.
Tip: With live music from Friday to Sunday, you can dance and celebrate in true Christmas spirit.
Book by calling 061 364047 or emailing info@shannonspringshotel.com.
The Grove
Located just outside Ennis Town, Grove Bar is the perfect spot to celebrate the Christmas Season. With its quality food and warm atmosphere, The Grove is an ideal party venue for your Christmas Party this year. They are able to cater a three-course meal for only €39.95 per person for any party size.
Tip: The Grove provides free parking and their delicious menu has options for everyone, with the ability to cater for all your dietary needs.
Book by calling 065 6893280 or emailing info@thegroveennis.ie.
The Creamery
The Creamery offers an unbeatable blend of festive cheer, great food, and outstanding service, making it the ideal location for your family gathering or company party. One of their standout features is its impressive Loft Function Room, which can accommodate up to 200 guests. The function room is also equipped with a private bar, offering an exclusive setting where your guests can enjoy the evening to the fullest. Their Finger Food packages are perfect for a more casual gathering, with a variety of tasty bites that are sure to satisfy everyone. Christmas Lunch and Dinner packages offer a selection of classics and modern favourites, using locally sourced ingredients. However, Christmas parties are not just about the food; the atmosphere is what makes a night to remember! The Creamery has live music every weekend, ensuring that your event will have the perfect soundtrack to get everyone in the spirit for celebrations.
Tip: In need of a thoughtful Christmas Gift? Vouchers can be purchased in any amount at The Creamery. For collectors and enthusiasts alike, the limited edition Creamery Whiskey, a collaboration with Clare’s very own JJ Corry, is available to purchase in-house in full-size and travel-size bottles.
Book by calling 061 364114 or emailing info@creamerybar.com.
JP Clarke’s
Few places capture the warmth of Christmas in Clare quite like JP Clarke’s in Bunratty. Earlier this year, JP Clarke’s underwent a major renovation, giving the venue a refreshed atmosphere while keeping all the charm it’s known for. This Christmas marks the first festive season in the new-look JP Clarke’s, and the team is going all out to mark the occasion. From a cosy dinner for two by the fire to a family meal after a magical visit to Santa at Bunratty Castle, or a lively night with colleagues, JP Clarke’s offers the perfect setting to celebrate. Seasonal menus have been carefully crafted with something for everyone, including two courses from €35 and three courses from €42. For younger guests, the award-winning kids’ menu ensures even the smallest diners are looked after in style.
Tip: Just a minute off the motorway, with parking at the door, JP Clarke’s has long been a favourite for locals and visitors. They have recently been named Regional Winner for the Southwest at the Irish Pub Awards for Outstanding Customer Service and awarded Silver at the Bar of the Year Awards 2025 for Gastro Bar of the Year.
Book by calling 061 363363, emailing info@jpclarkes.ie, or visiting www.jpclarkes.ie.
Durty Nelly’s
You’ll notice some exciting updates at Durty Nelly’s, from refreshed menus focusing on traditional Irish cuisine and seasonal specials, to live music, However, the heart of Durty Nelly’s remains at their familiar charm and hospitality. Feel at home as they welcome both locals and guests from all over the world.
Tip: Durty Nelly’s Bar and Restaurant is excited to announce a new management team who are thrilled to continue building on the incredible foundation that’s been laid by the previous management team, Maurice Walsh and Garry O’Toole. Under the leadership of Colm Shearman, Durty Nelly’s is honoured to carry its legacy and tradition of great hospitality forward.
Book by calling 061 364861 or emailing info@durtynellys.ie.
Moher Hill Farm
Santa is preparing to visit Moher Hill Farm, where the children of Clare will get a chance to meet the main man, his elves, and reindeer this Christmas. Santa visits will take place indoors in a heated area on the weekends of December 6th to December 21st. Each child will receive a gift and have time to chat and take a photograph with Santa, and will also receive a bag of food to feed the many animals of Moher Hill Farm. Children will also meet Santa’s elves, play in the indoor bouncy castle, or visit the ball pool and under-5s area while adults keep themselves refreshed with complimentary tea, coffee, mulled wine, and a festive homemade mince pie. Don’t forget to post your Santa list at the Post Office onsite!
Tip: Prior to this year’s Santa Experience, Moher Hill Farm will host a Halloween family fun day with fancy dress, a magic show and balloon modelling on Sunday, the 26th of October at 2pm.
Book by calling 087 2258347 or visiting www.moherfarm.com.
