This Christmas season, W5 invites families to experience a festive wonderland brimming with holiday magic at Northern Ireland’s award-winning science and discovery centre.
On selected dates from 30 November to 23 December, W5 will be transformed into a holiday haven with Santa’s Elf Academy, a host of festive games and interactive exhibits that promise fun for all ages.
Take a look at the magical activities and memories you can make at W5 this Christmas.
Santa’s Elf Academy
This season, Santa and his lovable elf-bot Bud-E are back at W5 with an all-new live-action show, Santa’s Elf Academy. After a failed experiment to replace his helpers with robots, Santa is now calling on children and adults to help him save Christmas! In this action-packed show, participants can take on fun games and challenges, earning their place as honorary elves. Successful graduates will receive an official elf hat and a special gift from Santa’s sleigh to take home.
With music, dancing, robots, and lots of interactive fun, Elf Academy is a must-see for families looking to dive into the holiday spirit. This lively, family-friendly event will be running on selected dates from 30 November to 23 December - come ready to help Santa and Bud-E save Christmas!
Santa’s Elf Academy is an add-on experience. Tickets to this show can be purchased when booking general admission to W5.
With Every Christmas Card
Step into a world of Christmas magic at this new immersive experience in our AMAZE space. Wander through enchanting holiday scenes where giant Christmas cards spring to life before your eyes. From snowy landscapes, ice-skating snowmen, a peek into Santa’s workshop, and more, this magical experience will have you surrounded by the sights, sounds and smells of the festive season, and is free with general admission.
Indoor Snowball Fights and Penguin Curling
Let the fun begin and the snowballs fly! Challenge your family to epic indoor snowball fights, minus the frozen fingers, and get competitive at penguin curling and see who can get their penguin in the nest first. These wholesome fun festive activities guarantee a good laugh for the whole family.
And that’s not all, W5 has a host of exciting holiday activities that will add extra magic to your Christmas experience. Capture enchanting moments at Christmas photo spots and share the joy on social media. Visit the Science Bar for a seasonal twist, where holiday-themed experiments like Festive Freeze and Festive Fireworks bring science to life with a dash of holiday sparkle. Don’t miss Climbit this Christmas, W5’s iconic structure will be aglow with festive spirit, creating a one-of-a-kind climbing adventure. When it’s time to recharge, head to the Jingle All the Way Café on Level 2, where seasonal treats and drinks await to keep your holiday spirit high.
W5 Late – Big Christmas Night
Not forgetting that for one night only, W5 Late returns with a festive twist with W5 Late – Big Festive Night. Taking place on Friday 13 December, this strictly adults-only evening lets grown-ups explore W5’s zones and exhibits in a holiday-themed atmosphere—without any kids around. Throw on your best Christmas sweater and dive into hands-on activities, festive games, and seasonal surprises. With a fully licensed bar serving wine, beer, and holiday cocktails, it’s the ultimate Christmas playground for adults looking to get into the festive spirit. Don’t miss out on a night of holiday magic made just for grown-ups.
Discover Festive Delights Across Eight Interactive Zones
The holiday fun doesn’t end there! W5’s eight interactive zones, featuring over 250 hands-on exhibits, await families looking for a unique day out this Christmas. From science shows and creative activities to virtual reality experiences, there’s something to capture the imagination of all ages. W5’s exhibits are designed to make learning fun, ensuring a festive day of discovery.
For more information on all W5 Christmas experiences and tickets, click here.
