Dublin’s fun-filled festive tradition is back!

IT’S back, it’s better than ever and it’s as much a part of Christmas in Dublin as midnight mass, horse racing on St Stephen’s Day or a Cadbury’s selection box.

Winter Funderland is the undisputed king of funfairs in Ireland and tens of thousands of Dubliners will flock to the RDS from December 16 until January 15 as part of their festive holiday activities.

Many will have been anticipating the return of Ireland’s largest outdoor ice rink and Europe’s biggest indoor theme park since last year’s visit – and the wait will certainly be worth it.

This year’s star attraction is ‘Around the World’, a swing ride from Germany with spectacular lighting that stands 60 metres tall; almost twice the height of the traditional Funderland Ferris Wheel.

Adrenalin junkies will also enjoy top continental thrill rides ‘Eclipse’ and ‘Discovery’ while the much loved ‘Power Wave’ makes a welcome return visit from Holland.

The ‘Speed Loop’ rollercoaster, introduced in 2014, is another thrillseekers’ favourite and it will be joined by the ‘Take O ‘, ‘Ice Jet’ and ‘Waltzer’ rides, to name just a few.

Younger visitors who haven’t yet cut their thrillseeking teeth can have lots of fun on the Kiddie Rides or at family attractions where parents can accompany children.

The beauty of Winter Funderland is that there’s so many attractions for all ages that it offers something for everybody. For those who prefer to keep their feet firmly on the ground, there’s lots of games of skill and chance that provide a chance to win some of Winter Funderland’s famous giant teddies and soft toys.

Alongside the indoor and outdoor attractions at Winter Funderland is iSkate, which at 600 sq mts is Ireland’s largest outdoor ice rink.

The outdoor rink, introduced in 2015, has proved hugely popular and returns for this year’s event.

With spectacular lighting, iSkate creates a winter wonderland atmosphere outside the Simmonscourt Pavilion. For many visitors, an hour on the ice rink along with the thrills of the fairground provides a perfect family day out.

Winter Funderland offers a Pay-As-You-Go per ride option or the choice of POP (Pay-One-Price) Wristbands that allow hours of unlimited fun. There’s also a family wristband option.