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IFA's Live Animal Crib:Christmas Eve is the final day of what has become a seasonal tradition for many Dublin families – a visit to the live animal crib in front of the Mansion House on Dawson Street.

It’s a joint venture between the Irish Farmers’ Association and Dublin City Council, and every year for the past 16 years the farming organisation has brought the animals into the city to add to the traditional Nativity scene in the crib – they arrive in the morning, stay in the large, specially constructed stable and go home to a farm on the outskirts of the city again at 6pm.

The afternoon is a nice time to visit as the Mansion House is lit up and looks very festive. This year, the very patient animals include a donkey and a newborn foal.

A visit to the crib is free but donations, if desired, can be made and the money goes to the Lord Mayor’s Charity Fund. Over the years €120,000 has been raised.

Another public building that will be worth visiting during the holidays will be the Solas light show on Thursday, December 30th at 4.30pm in the Dubh Linn Gardens at Dublin Castle.

Forty performers – including illuminated streetwalkers, musicians and a choral performance by the Dublin Gospel Choir – will entertain against a backdrop of a spectacular lighting display. The event is free and it’s to launch the three-day Dublin New Year Festival.

dublincity.ie

dublinnewyearfestival.com