Make Christmas Memories at Dundonald International Ice Bowl’s Festive Farewell

Dundonald International Ice Bowl is inviting families and friends to celebrate one final Christmas in its current building this December, with a programme of festive activities ahead of its move to a brand-new facility in 2027.

From Santa on the ice to festive discos and Christmas Eve bowling, this year’s celebrations offer visitors a chance to make lasting memories in the much-loved venue, which has welcomed generations of visitors since opening in 1986.

The popular Santa on the Ice sessions return on 5, 12 and 19 December, giving families the chance to enjoy a yuletide skate and visit Santa on his famous red sleigh. DJ entertainment will bring Christmas cheer to the rink with a mix of merry favourites, while skating aids will help younger visitors take their first steps on the ice. Pre-booking is advised, and online booking opens seven days before each session.

Indiana Land will also host a range of festive activities, with sessions for younger visitors.

On Friday 11 December, a Christmas-themed Sensory Friendly Indiana Land session will offer an inclusive celebration for children aged 14 and under who are autistic, neurodivergent or have sensory sensitivities.

Each child will receive a selection box, with the option of a visit from Santa. Online bookings open seven days before the session.

Rudolph’s Rockin’ Christmas Disco returns to Indiana Land for the final time on Friday 18 December. Children aged 11 and under can enjoy an evening of music and prize giveaways. Early booking is recommended.

Younger visitors can dance the morning away at the Terrific Tots Christmas Disco on 18 December. Online bookings open seven days in advance.

Families and friends are encouraged to put on their favourite Christmas pyjamas for the popular Christmas Eve Pyjama Party in the Bowling Centre. DJ entertainment will run from 2pm to 5pm with and singalong favourites and prize giveaways. To book, call the Bowling Centre on 028 9080 9102 or 028 9080 9104.

Launching the Christmas programme, Councillor Sharon Lowry, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, said: “We are delighted to welcome Santa back to Dundonald International Ice Bowl for the last Christmas in our existing building.

“As we look forward to the opening of our new state-of-the-art facility next year, this festive season is an opportunity to reflect on the memories made over the last 40 years. There will be a real sense of nostalgia as the decorations come down and we say farewell to a place that means so much to us all.

“This December, I would encourage families and friends from near and far to join us for the final Christmas celebration.  Whether it’s holding hands for one last yuletide skate, hearing little ones laugh through a magical adventure in Indiana Land, or cheering each other on over one last festive game of bowling, these familiar traditions will feel all the more special. This is an opportunity to come together and make this Christmas one to remember.

For further information and booking details, visit www.theicebowl.com.

Councillor Sharon Lowry, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, launches the Christmas Programme at Dundonald International Ice Bowl.