RTE host Patrick Kielty confirms Late Late Toy Show 2026 date as Irish actress helps start official countdown clock
RTE star Patrick Kielty has officially confirmed the date of this year’s Late Late Toy Show.
The Down comic was back in the hot seat for a brand-new season of the hit chat show tonight.
Patrick welcomed a host of star-studded guests to the RTE studio for his fourth time back as presenter.
And before the show wrapped up, the presenter revealed when the highly-anticipated Late Late Toy Show will take place this year.
Patrick confirmed he’ll be hosting the Christmas extravaganza on December 4, 2026.
Irish actress Caitriona Balfe joined Kielty in the studio tonight – and the host asked her to help make the announcement.
She said: “This is a big moment for me, I’m a huge fan, but my son. We’ve watched the last two, he’s only five so this is a huge moment.”
Patrick then pulled out a red buzzer for Caitriona to press, which officially started the countdown clock to The Late Late Toy Show.
And now that the countdown to the most festive night on Irish TV is officially on – RTE bosses recently issued an urgent call out for the next generation of Toy Show stars.
They are calling on mums and dads across the country to put forward their talented tots before the deadline hits.
Whether your little star dreams of testing out the must-have Christmas toys or stepping into the spotlight for a show-stopping performance, this is their golden chance to steal the show.
The child participation application form asks for the name of the child’s teacher/guardian and some contact details.
It also asks whether the child would like to perform or demonstrate on the big night.
Applications for the 2026 show can be found here – but parents must be warned, the deadline to apply is fast approaching.
It officially opened last month, but entries close strictly at midnight on Sunday, September 27.
Make sure your little one doesn’t miss out on the show of the year!
