About The Goblin Market
The Goblin Market at Tir Na nOg is inspired by Christina Rossetti’s poem of the same title, which tells the story of sisters Laura and Lizzie being led astray by the goblins’ promises of delicious, forbidden fruits. Richly detailed and expressive, the poem lends itself exquisitely to dramatisation. You can read Goblin Market by Christina Rosetti here; do pour yourself a glass of something unusual to accompany it.
Now you can imagine what the real Goblin Market might entail. Set in a meadow surrounding an ancient Linden tree in the autumnal light, there will be fluttering flags, real trade stalls, goblin games, a tavern, and a huge Goblin Hall for the main storytelling circus performance. Just like in Christina Rosetti’s poem, you might just find it difficult to go back to the real world after you’ve had dealings with the goblins and other mythical beings…
The Goblin Hall
The Goblin Hall is our large geodesic dome in which the main stage performance will be held. The stage will be in the very centre of the hall, and guests will be seated around it in concentric circles. Guests of the innermost circle will eat and drink among the performers, while guests of the outer circle may sip at their included elixirs and observe the magic from the shadows.
The seated performance lasts approximately 45 minutes, and is not for the faint of heart. Story, circus, strange deeds and a magical soundscape to immerse you into the world of Rosetti’s fable. Though filled with spectacular circus and enganging drama, the show does contains themes are of an adult nature, and parental guidance is advised. Booking is essential to secure your place in the Goblin Hall - dinner tickets are expected to sell out quickly.
The Inn Of Many Lights
The Inn is a goblin-run tavern offering ales, wines, liqueurs and food. If you have not booked in to dine among the performers, the tavern will offer you an array of refreshments, sure to suit a broad gastronomic palete whim, as well as any dietary requirement. Although goblins famously accept only first-born children as payment, the Inn of Many Lights prefers cash, as signal is patchy and card machines are often unreliable.
Be sure to bring a keen thirst and adventurous appetite. But keep your wits about you! Many lights make for many shadows and unsavoury characters are known to lurk in their depths.
Vegetarian + gluten/dairy free options.
The Market Stalls
The Stalls are run by a higgldi-piggldi collection human and otherworldly traders, bringing together handmade miracles for sale; marvels and secrets from across the Fae Realms to buy. ‘Come buy. ‘Come buy’
Accepting goblin gold, human gold, gems and other human money.
The Goblin Games
The Gaming Field on the market’s edge is the place for humans and other creatures alike to spectate at the goblin games and witness feats of skill and daring - think a magical sports day meets a country fair. The games are open for all to participate; prizes are up for grabs and healthy competition is sure to add to the festive atmosphere. Why not have a go at tossing the giant’s thighbone, or trying out some jousting?
