12 November 2026
By Mary Bermingham
mary@TheCork.ie
One of Cork’s most popular Christmas attractions has opened in the city centre with ‘ONICE’ bringing its new experience, The Winter Gathering, indoors, at North Main Street Shopping Centre.
After three successful seasons in Cork, ONICE has begun a new chapter in the heart of the city, where it will operate until Sunday, January 3, 2027.
The move brings ice skating, food vendors and festive fun together in a central location, with parking in the same building and the city’s shops, restaurants and Christmas attractions all within walking distance.
The move will also bring a popular seasonal attraction to North Main Street, helping to increase footfall and support local businesses during the festive period.
ONICE founder Jason Williams said the move to North Main Street marks an exciting new chapter, bringing The Winter Gathering to the heart of Cork’s Christmas celebrations.
“We’ve had three fantastic years in Cork, and we’re delighted to be moving to our new home on North Main Street, right in the heart of the city.
The Winter Gathering, brought to you by ONICE, is about bringing families and friends together for a skate, something to eat and a bit of Christmas magic. There’s always a great buzz in Cork at Christmas, and we’re excited to be part of it again this year.”
Clara O’Neill, President of Cork Business Association said, “CBA is delighted to welcome ONICE to Cork city centre this Christmas. Over the past three years, ONICE has established itself as a standout Christmas attraction, and bringing the experience into the heart of the city presents a fantastic opportunity to drive footfall, support local businesses and strengthen Cork’s appeal as a Christmas destination.
This is particularly welcome news for North Main Street, where Cork Business Association has been working alongside local businesses and Cork City Council to support the ongoing revitalisation of the area. Attracting an established Christmas attraction like ONICE is another positive development, bringing new energy and footfall to the street and creating opportunities for surrounding businesses
We look forward to seeing ONICE bring even more festive excitement to Cork and deliver a positive boost for the wider city centre business community this Christmas.”
The brand-new attraction will also feature a selection of food vendors on site, adding another dimension to The Winter Gathering. Whether it’s grabbing a bite to eat after a skating session, enjoying something warm while the kids are on the ice or simply meeting friends for a festive catch-up, visitors will be able to enjoy food and skating all under one roof. It’s all part of creating a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere where people can spend time together and enjoy the Christmas buzz without having to rush off once their skating session is over.
Richard Pratt of Bmor, owners of North Main Street Shopping Centre, said:
“We’re delighted to welcome ONICE to the centre and see the space come alive with festive activity. It’s exciting to see it become a place where families and friends can come together, bringing fresh energy to North Main Street and giving people another reason to spend time in the area this Christmas.”
The new location also puts The Winter Gathering within easy walking distance of Cork’s main shopping streets, restaurants, cafés and other festive attractions, including the Big Wheel and the city’s two Christmas pantomimes.
The experience is designed to be family-friendly, with skate aids available for children under 13 who need a little extra help finding their feet on the ice.
ONICE will also introduce dedicated sensory hours every Saturday and Sunday morning for visitors with additional needs who may feel more comfortable skating in a calmer environment. During these sessions, music levels will be lowered, rink capacity will be reduced, flashing lights will be removed and additional staff will be available to provide assistance where needed.
For families, a skating session can be part of a Christmas shopping trip or a day out in town. For teenagers, couples and groups of friends, it’s another option for a Christmas get-together or an evening in the city.
Each skating session lasts 45 minutes, with visitors advised to arrive at least 20 minutes before their booked time.
The Winter Gathering, brought to you by ONICE, opened today, Friday, November 6, 2026, and runs until Sunday, January 3, 2027, at Unit 10, North Main Street Shopping Centre, Cork, T12 PNX5.
Advance booking is recommended, particularly at weekends and during the Christmas holidays.
Bookings and further information are available at www.onice.ie/locations/cork or by calling 021 242 7232