Santa's Hotel Elf Academy

A Magical Overnight Christmas Experience for the Whole Family in Donegal

This Christmas, experience the magic of Santa's Hotel - Elf Academy at Jackson's Hotel, Ballybofey, Donegal. Our magical overnight Santa experience is the perfect family Christmas break, combining a cosy hotel stay with unforgettable festive adventures for children and relaxing downtime for parents. From meeting Santa to graduating from Elf Academy to magical surprises, every moment is designed to create lasting Christmas memories.

While little ones enjoy their fully supervised Elf Academy adventure, complete with festive activities, games and dinner, parents can relax and make the most of their evening in the warm and welcoming surroundings of Jackson's Hotel. Whether you're looking for a magical Santa sleepover in Donegal or a unique Christmas hotel experience for the whole family, Santa's Hotel - Elf Academy promises an unforgettable festive escape.

Book Now

Book your Festive Family Getaway today and make this Christmas one to remember.

One Night Family Stay, From €299 per family.

Two Night Family Stay, From €259 per night.

📞 Call our Reservations team at +353 74 913 1021 (9:30am - 6pm Weekday only)

Your Package Includes

✦ Choose between an overnight stay or a two-night stay for the whole family

✦ Festive activity pack for every child on arrival

✦ Nightly access to the Elf Academy (6:00pm–9:00pm Pre-booking essential)

✦ Children's dinner served in the Elf Academy each evening

✦ Official Elf School Training

✦ Wake up to a magical surprise as a special letter from Santa is delivered right to your door

✦ Freshly prepared breakfast each morning

✦ Cosy Storytime with Mrs. Claus

✦ A magical visit with Santa

✦ Hot chocolate and cookies

✦ Complimentary access to our Leisure Centre

✦ Exclusive discounts to local attractions

By the end of their adventure, each child will have earned their place as an official Elf Academy graduate!

Nightly Elf Academy

6pm – 9pm | Fully Supervised

Children will enjoy an evening of festive fun with the Jackson's Hotel Elf Team, including dinner, crafts, games and magical Christmas activities.

While the little ones are busy making festive memories, parents can unwind for a relaxing evening.

Pre-booking is essential

Frequently Asked Questions

✦ Where do guests check in ?

Elf Academy guests will have their own private check-in at the Pyramid Suite Foyer - to the right of the hotel's main entrance past the Thirsty Trout bar.

✦ What age must you be to attend Supervised Elf Club ?

Children aged 4 years and older may attend the Supervised Elf Club

✦ Do parents stay with the children ?

Santa's Hotel - Elf Academy Experience: Yes, parental or guardian attendance is required.

Supervised Elf Club: No, Children aged 4 and over have access to the Elf Club. Children under 4 can dine free in our bar or restaurant.

✦ How long is the Santa Experience ?

Approximately 60 - 70 minutes. Itineraries will be emailed prior to arrival.

✦ Can guests arrive early ?

Yes. Please arrive 15–20 minutes before your allocated Santa Experience time slot.

✦ Can Santa times be changed ?

Once your itinerary has been issued, any changes to your Santa Experience time will be subject to availability.

✦ Do I book a timeslot ?

No, there's no need to book a timeslot. We'll allocate one for you and send you your itinerary closer to the date.

✦ Is parking included ?

Yes. Complimentary parking is available. We recommend using our underground car park. Follow the road around to the right-hand side of the hotel, where the entrance to the car park is located on your left.

✦ Where is Santa's Hotel - Elf Academy ?

Santa's Hotel – Elf Academy takes place at Jackson's Hotel, Ballybofey, in the heart of County Donegal. We're conveniently located around 20 minutes from Letterkenny (21 km), and only 35–40 minutes from Derry (45 km).

With easy access from across the North West, Jackson's Hotel is the perfect base for your magical Christmas experience. Just pop F93 RD40 into your maps, and we'll be ready to welcome you!