Antrim Castle Gardens will host the Enchanted Winter Garden for its 2026 edition, running from 2 to 28 December. The event includes illuminated trails, a festive food fayre, a giant wheel, and new rides alongside the returning Wave Swinger.

Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Henry Cushinan, welcomed the return of the attraction, stating it offers families and friends an opportunity to come together and experience the festive atmosphere in the borough.

Two dedicated inclusive evenings are scheduled for 3 and 9 December, with reduced visitor capacity, static lighting displays, lower sound levels, sensory and quiet rooms, and slower-paced rides. Mobility scooters and wheelchairs are available for hire by appointment, and Changing Places facilities will be provided on site.

Residents of Antrim and Newtownabbey can purchase discounted tickets, with adult admission at £8.50, children aged 2-17 at £6.50, and family tickets at £26.50. Standard prices are £15.50 for adults, £10.50 for children, and £46.50 for a family ticket. Children under 2 enter free with a 50p booking fee.

Free shuttle buses will operate from The Junction Retail and Leisure Park directly to the venue entrance. The event continues after Christmas Day, with the Grinch character appearing after Santa departs.

Separately, Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council has approved Fleadh-themed 'Party in the Park' events to be held at Antrim Castle Gardens and Loughshore Park on 31 July 2027. The decision followed discussion at the Community Development Committee, where a DUP councillor raised concerns about music screening and balance across both locations.

Director of community and culture Ursula Fay noted that officers are building on the legacy of the Fleadh 2026 held in Belfast, and that the programme aims to be inclusive and representative of all cultural traditions in the borough. Sinn Fein councillor Maighréad Ní Chonghaile opposed pre-screening of participants, describing the suggestion as nonsense.

The council agreed to proceed with the events as part of its events plan for 2026 and 2027.