As we welcome the first month of the year, Carlow is full of ways to brighten the January Blues and start the year on a positive note. From our hotel welcoming Luna – The Elephant in the Room, encouraging open conversations around mental health, to our Valentine’s Day packages designed for couples and friends, there’s plenty to look forward to. The months ahead also bring the beauty of Snowdrop Month, the excitement of the Pan Cheilteach National Song Contest, and the vibrant atmosphere of Carlow Farmers Market, where locals and visitors connect over great food. Carlow offers the perfect mix of community, culture, and seasonal experiences to begin the year inspired.
Valentine's Day in the Woodford Dolmen Hotel
Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and February is shaping up to be the perfect time for a little getaway at the Woodford Dolmen Hotel. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape or a fun-filled night with friends, we’ve created two special packages to help you celebrate in style. Our Galentines Getaway is all about the girls: cocktails on arrival, a delicious two-course dinner, cosy overnight accommodation, and plenty of time for catching up, laughing, and making memories. It’s the ideal excuse to gather your favourite people and enjoy a relaxed night away together.
For couples, our Cupid’s Kiss Package offers the ultimate mix of food, romance, and comfort. Enjoy a stylish overnight stay, a four-course dinner with a bottle of wine, live music in the Plum Tree Bar & Bistro on Valentine’s Night, luxury chocolates on arrival, and a full Irish breakfast the following morning. If you’re still searching for the perfect gift, a Woodford Dolmen Hotel Gift Voucher is a thoughtful option too — ideal for romantic dining, afternoon tea, or a future overnight escape. However you choose to celebrate, make this Valentine’s Day one to remember. Book your February getaway today and let us take care of the rest.
For more information, see our Valentine’s Day page
Luna, the Elephant in the Room
We’re proud to welcome Luna – The Elephant in the Room to our hotel from 19th–25th January. Launched by the Carlow Mental Health Association on October 11th, 2025, Luna is here to help fight the stigma around mental health and encourage open conversations across Carlow.
By placing Luna in visible spaces around local businesses, the campaign invites employees, locals, and visitors alike to “Face The Elephant in the Room” and talk about mental wellbeing. Luna is a powerful, physical reminder that mental health matters and that sharing experiences and supporting each other can make a real difference — especially during January, often considered the darkest month of the year.
If you spot Luna in our lobby, feel free to come say hello! Throughout the week, we’ll also be sharing stories from our employees about how they care for their own mental health. These insights will be posted across our social media channels, highlighting practical tips and encouraging discussion.
With many local businesses participating since the campaign’s launch, Luna has already started meaningful conversations across Carlow. We’re honoured to be part of this initiative and invite everyone to join in, support one another, and embrace the message behind Luna: mental health matters, and it’s okay to talk about it.
For more mental health resources, please visit Carlow Mental Health Association Website
Snowdrop Month
The delicate white and green blooms of the snowdrop are starting to emerge, heralding the start of the gardening year. In County Carlow, their arrival is celebrated with a series of special events throughout February, showcasing some of the county’s most beautiful gardens.
Even now, there are opportunities to enjoy the early festivities. Whether you’re an avid gardener or simply looking for a local, seasonal outing, Snowdrop Month offers a wonderful chance to explore Carlow’s gardens and enjoy the peaceful beauty of winter blooms.
Highlights include the Sensory Snowdrop Experience at Delta Sensory Gardens, where visitors can immerse themselves in a full day of the sights, sounds, and scents of the garden, and Snowdrop Season at Arboretum, which displays the natural charm of these early flowers. Both are perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a quiet, inspiring outdoor experience.
Visiting these gardens is more than just seeing the flowers — it’s an opportunity to embrace the local landscape, enjoy seasonal events, and connect with Carlow’s natural beauty. Take a walk, discover the snowdrops, and start the gardening year inspired.
For a full list of Snowdrop Month events, visit the Carlow Garden Trail What’s On page.
Celebrate Music and Culture with the Pan Cheilteach National Song Contest
Carlow is set to come alive with music, culture, and community spirit during the Pan Cheilteach National Song Contest. This prestigious event showcases exceptional talent from across Ireland, celebrating both the richness of our musical heritage and the creativity of modern songwriters and performers. From soulful ballads to lively, foot-tapping tunes, the contest promises an unforgettable evening for audiences of all ages. Part of the wider Pan Cheilteach Festival, the winner will go on to represent Ireland in the international Pan Cheilteach Song Contest this April. Tickets are €15, including booking fee — book now for an inspiring night of music.
Adding to the excitement, our hotel will welcome the Duntally Céilí Band from Donegal on 10th April, performing as part of the festival. The Pan Celtic Festival transforms Carlow into a hub of music, dance, and Irish cultural festivities, with performances, workshops, and events happening across the town. Whether you’re a fan of traditional music, contemporary Irish songwriting, or simply want to enjoy a lively cultural experience, the festival offers something for everyone. Join us in celebrating Ireland’s vibrant musical heritage and experience the warm energy of Carlow during this special weekend.
To book tickets for the Pan Cheilteach National Song Contest here
Carlow Farmer's Market
While visiting Carlow, make sure to stop by Carlow Farmers Market, a lively hub in the heart of town where locals and visitors come together. If your New Year’s resolution is to eat healthier, support local businesses, or explore local Irish food, the market is a must-visit. From fresh, seasonal fruit and vegetables to artisan breads, cheeses, preserves, meats, mushrooms, and hot food, there’s something to inspire every palate.
Carlow Farmers Market promises an authentic, welcoming experience to connect with the town, its people, and its vibrant food culture. Each stall reflects the passion and care of local producers, giving you a chance to shop consciously while supporting the local economy. Take your time browsing, enjoy the lively atmosphere, and discover new ingredients to bring home for your own culinary adventures. It’s a great way to try out new recipes while taking home a taste of Carlow with you.
The Carlow Farmers Market is located at the heart of Carlow, next to the main town centre Car Park at Potato Market, Carlow R93 VX84 and is open every Saturday from 9am – 2pm.
For more details, visit the Carlow Farmer’s Market website.