Winter is here and Christmas is just around the corner, bringing the perfect excuse to soak up the festive magic! Dublin and its surroundings are brimming with exciting events to get you in the holiday spirit. From sparkling light shows to cosy markets, live music and unique experiences, I’ve rounded up the coolest events of the season just for you.
Events happening all December:
Here’s a roundup of events happening throughout the month — experiences to make this season unforgettable!
Dublin Winter Lights
Dublin’s Winter Lights Festival will transform the city into a magical winter wonderland this holiday season. With dazzling displays across iconic landmarks, including ticketed experiences, it’s the perfect way to experience the festive spirit!
Here is the list of locations (two of them ticketed):
| GPO General Post Office | Merrion Square Park (ticket from €2) | Custom House |
| Bank of Ireland, College Green | Millennium Bridge | Trinity College Dublin |
| O’Connell Street and The Spire | Hugh Lane Gallery | Newcomen Bank |
| National Museum of Ireland, Collins Barracks (ticket from €2) |
Mansion House |
George’s Dock |
|
Samuel Beckett Bridge |
Ha’penny Bridge | Liffey Boardwalk |
|
James Joyce Bridge |
Palace Street and Barnardo Square | St. Stephen’s Green |
Wonderlights Malahide Castle
Wonderlights, Ireland's largest award-winning light show, returns to Malahide Castle & Gardens for its 4th year, running until January 5th. Enjoy dazzling light displays, immersive projections and new magical themes with music and sounds. Tickets from €23.50.
Christmas Spectacular - Smithfield Square
Celebrate Christmas at Smithfield Square with Dublin's first Ice Museum! Experience stunning ice sculptures, glide on the large ice rink, explore a European-style market with festive food and crafts and enjoy the view from the Big Wheel. Warm up at the Nutcracker Snug. Free admission.
Wild Lights at Dublin Zoo
Experience Wild Lights at Dublin Zoo with the enchanting theme 'A Journey Through Time'. Embark on a magical adventure filled with stunning light displays. Tickets from €24.50.
Wonderlights Marlay Park
Also from now to the 5th of January, Wonderlights, Ireland's largest award-winning light show, returns to Marlay Park, South Dublin. Experience stunning lighting displays, immersive projections and new, magical themes with music and sounds. Tickets from €23.50.
Peter Pan
The Gaiety Theatre is Dublin’s home for Christmas panto and this year’s Peter Pan is one you won’t want to miss! Running from now on to January 19, this exciting adventure through Neverland is packed with fun, laughter and all your favourite characters like Peter, Wendy and Captain Hook. With its lively performances and festive magic, this is the perfect show for families looking to enjoy a fun Christmas tradition in Dublin. The ticket price is from €21.50.
Ice Skating
Dublin is the place to be for ice skating this holiday season, with several rinks offering festive fun for everyone. Ice Skating Blanchardstown will be open from November 15 to January 26, 2025, offering 50-minute sessions in a wintery wonderland. If you're looking for something more central, Dundrum Town Centre’s rink is open until January 26, 2025, with 45-minute sessions available. You can also glide along the rink at Dún Laoghaire Harbour, which will be open until January 12, 2025, offering a picturesque coastal setting. For even more skating, Swords Pavilion also has a rink running throughout the season, ensuring there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy a magical ice skating experience this Christmas. Tickets from €21.
Mystic Dublin - Modern Echoes of Medieval Magic
Step into the mysterious world of medieval Dublin at Dublinia's latest exhibition, running from October 2024 to May 2025. Discover how magic, superstition and ancient traditions shaped daily life in a time of uncertainty and danger. Tickets start at €15.
1st of December - Richmond Barracks Christmas Fair
Celebrate the magic of the season at our Christmas Fair! Spend the weekend immersed in creativity and connection as you meet talented artists, skilled makers, local producers and small businesses. It’s the perfect opportunity to support your community, find unique treasures and embrace the festive spirit together. Free admission.
Andrea Bocelli 30: The Celebration
Experience the magic of Tuscany as its stunning natural amphitheatre comes alive with the extraordinary voice of Andrea Bocelli. Celebrate the 30th anniversary of his legendary career with a spectacular three-day concert event in his hometown. Tickets start at just €15 — Don’t miss this enchanting celebration of music and culture!
1st, 12th and 19th of December – Winteryard Night Market
Step into a Winter Wonderland this Christmas at The Bernard Shaw & Eatyard! Enjoy games, live music, festive cheer and winter markets on select dates. Free admission some of the days, others you must buy tickets online!
From now to 15th of December - Christmas Tour of Dublin City
Get into the Christmas spirit with a festive tour of Dublin city! Hop-on an open-top bus and enjoy songs, stories and plenty of laughs as you take in the best Christmas lights and displays. This unique tour features entertaining commentary from award-winning DoDublin guides and a special Christmas Carol service, making it an unforgettable way to experience Dublin’s holiday magic. From €20.
From now to 18th of December – Live Traditional Irish Music and Dance
Looking for traditional Irish music and dancing in Dublin? Join The Church Café Bar every evening from 6:30pm, with extended live music on Fridays and Saturdays until late. Free entrance!
From now to 22nd of December - The Order of Wizards
Experience magic at The Merris School of Enchantment, coming to Flanagan's Bar & Restaurant on O'Connell Street. Enjoy a unique cocktail experience with surprises, wizardry and immersive fun! Non-alcoholic potions available. Tickets from €39 for a 90-minute adventure. Dress up for a chance to win prizes.
Santa Experience at Croke Park
Also, from now to 22nd of December, Santa is coming to Croke Park! Join the fun at the GAA Museum for a festive experience with Santa and his North Pole team. Explore the North Pole GAA Dressing Rooms, enjoy festive games in the Skills Zone and meet Santa in his special Croke Park cabin. Every child receives a GAA-themed gift and photos are available for purchase. Tickets from €15. Don’t miss out on the Christmas magic!
From now to 23rd of December - Elf Town Dublin
Experience the magic of Elf Town Dublin at the RDS! This 75-minute Christmas adventure lets families explore Elf Town, meet Santa’s elves and even visit Santa and his two real reindeer, Comet and Cupid (I am so excited for this!). Each family gets a private visit with Santa, who knows a special secret about each child! Tickets from €19.95 at RDS Main Arena.
1st to 23rd December - Christmas Twinkling Lights Trip
Experience Dublin's festive magic with Vintage Tea Trips. Enjoy a delicious afternoon tea while admiring the city's Christmas lights and iconic landmarks like GPO, City Hall and Trinity College. Sip on tea, coffee or hot chocolate and enjoy a special festive menu exclusive to this trip. It’s the perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit! Tickets from €60.
Discount code: Canbe10
The Christmas Experience Malahide Castle
Step into a magical Christmas at Malahide Castle also from now to 23rd of December! Experience festive traditions and the castle's timeless beauty with charming holiday decorations, also, from now to 23rd of December. Tickets from €18, with optional Santa photo souvenirs available for purchase.
2nd - The Three Musketeers: Part II – Milady
Join D'Artagnan (François Civil) on a thrilling quest as he teams up with the enigmatic Milady de Winter (Eva Green), a figure he thought lost forever. Together, they face danger to rescue his beloved Constance (Lyna Khoudri) from the clutches of kidnappers. An epic tale of love, intrigue and bravery awaits. Tickets from just €9!
Sam Fender
Sam Fender's arena tour kicks off at Dublin's 3Arena on Monday, 2 December. Tickets start at €56.85 and are sold out — watch for last-minute availability!
2nd and 3rd - The Australian Pink Floyd Show
Experience Pink Floyd’s music performed to perfection in a show that’s wowed audiences worldwide for over 30 years. Featuring stunning lights, lasers, video effects and iconic inflatables like the giant pig, this spectacle recreates the full Pink Floyd experience. Tickets from €49!
3th to 19th - Christmas Candlelight
St. Patrick’s Cathedral will be hosting Christmas by Candlelight from December 3-19. This enchanting event invites you to experience Christmas music by candlelight in a truly intimate setting. These performances are perfect for anyone looking to fill their holiday season with music, tradition and festive cheer. Tickets start at €30.
3rd and 4th - ABBA Forever: The Christmas Show
Get ready for a festive night of music and fun as ABBA Forever returns to the Pavilion Theatre! This lively, sing-along tribute brings all the iconic hits like Mamma Mia, Dancing Queen, Fernando and more to life. Celebrate the magic of ABBA with a show that’s loud, proud and full of party vibes. Tickets from €27!
5th - Christmas in the Park Dún Laoghaire
Experience the Christmas spirit at People’s Park, Dún Laoghaire, from December 5th to 7th! Enjoy festive markets, tasty food and live music for every taste. The lineup includes Anna's Number, Melina Melone and TBL8 Brass on December 5th. Admission starts at €21!
5th to 21st - A Streetcar Named Desire
This Christmas, Dublin is stepping out of the snow and into the heat with some dramatic flair! The Smock Alley Theatre is bringing the sizzle of 1940s New Orleans to life with A Streetcar Named Desire. Directed by Cathal Cleary, this Tennessee Williams classic runs from December 5 to 21. Admission from €23.
6th - South Dublin Christmas Markets
Celebrate the season at the South Dublin Christmas Market on December 6th at Parthalán Place, Tallaght! Enjoy handmade gifts, tasty treats, live music and family fun. Free entry!
7th - Public Tour: Sketching Tour
Unleash your creativity at the National Gallery’s sketching tour on Saturday, December 7, 2024. Discover the collection in a fun and relaxing way — no artistic skills are needed, just bring your imagination! Tickets from €10.
8th - Rathfarnham Christmas Market
Join the festive fun at Rathfarnham Castle Park’s Christmas Market on December 8th! Enjoy local crafts, seasonal treats, live music and activities. Free admission!
Stillgarden Christmas Market
The Stillgarden Christmas Market is back for its 3rd year! Now indoors at Stillgarden Distillery, explore handmade crafts, art and gift sets. Free entry – but make sure to book your slot!
We Love Markets
With 13+ years of experience in Dublin markets, We Love Markets Is back to The Digital Hub in the historic Liberties. Join We Love Markets for a new monthly outdoor flea market. Free entry!
9th - Movie Night: Black Dog
Join for Monday Cinema Night at the Pavilion Theatre! This week, enjoy the heartfelt drama Black Dog (2008), where Lang (Eddie Peng) returns to his hometown after prison and forms an unexpected bond with a stray dog he captures during a pre-Olympics clean-up. Don’t miss this emotional and gripping story. Tickets from €9.
10th - A Christmas Special with John Callely & Whiskey Island
Immerse yourself in the festive spirit at Malahide Castle with a special whiskey-tasting experience. Discover the rich flavours of the season as you explore the Spirit of Christmas in this stunning historic setting. Tickets from €42.
From 11th - Mary Poppins
Looking for something a little more family-friendly? The Bord Gáis Energy Theatre has got you covered with Mary Poppins starting December 11, offering a fun-filled performance of everyone’s favourite magical nanny. Whether you're in the mood for drama or Disney magic, Dublin has something for every age this Christmas season. Tickets start at €26.50.
12th – Christmas Choir at Christ Church
Dublin’s grand cathedrals will be ringing with festive tunes this Christmas. Head to Christ Church Cathedral on December 11-12 to enjoy the beautiful sounds of their renowned choir, performing traditional Christmas favourites. Admissions from €32.50.
14th - African Gospel Choir Dublin
Join IMMA for an uplifting afternoon of music with the African Gospel Choir Dublin. This vibrant ensemble blends African gospel, Negro spirituals, acapella and American popular music. Experience their passion for music and joy for life. Free admission.
EPCR Investec Champions Cup - Leinster v Clermont Auvergne
Leinster faces Clermont Auvergne at Aviva Stadium in Round 2 of the Investec Champions Cup on Saturday, December 14th. Kick-off is at 5:30 pm. Don't miss the action! Tickets from €30.
Sustainable Christmas Craft Market
The Sustainable Christmas Craft Market returns to the National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin, on December 14th and 15th from 10am to 4pm. Enjoy over 70 stalls featuring sustainable gifts, crafts and seasonal treats. Free entry, no booking required.
15th - Dublin Ukulele Collective
Join the Dublin Ukulele Collective live at The Button Factory on Sunday, December 15th, for a festive night of music in aid of Focus Ireland. Enjoy rocking tunes with special guests and support a great cause. Tickets from €15.
Movie Night - The Nightmare Before Christmas
Join Rascals for a festive screening of Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas! Follow Jack Skellington as he brings Christmas chaos to Halloween Town. With Danny Elfman’s iconic score, this kooky classic is a must-see. Enjoy a beer and popcorn for €5.70 (+Eventbrite fee). Sunday, December 15th at 7pm. Limited spaces, book now!
16th - Yoga & Meditation at the Gallery
Join certified yoga instructor and Gallery guide Mary Dowling for an hour of relaxation and mindfulness in the Gallery’s Grand Gallery. Suitable for all levels and abilities. Tickets from €25.
That 80's ish Band - Christmas Crew Gig - Live
That 80's ish band is bringing the Christmas cheer, especially for the hardworking crew working through the festive season! This night is for you, so grab your neon wristbands, headbands, ankle socks and hairspray and let's relive the best of the '80s with all your favourite nostalgia-packed classics. Admission from €19.80.
17th – Movie Day - The Grinch
Join Draíocht Blanchardstown on Tuesday, 17 December for a screening of The Grinch! Enjoy this classic family comedy as the Grinch’s heart grows with holiday cheer. Tickets: €7.50 (Adults), €6 (Concessions), €5 (Children).
30th - Based Music Festival
Don’t miss an epic night of live music at The Button Factory on December 30th! Featuring Drugstore Cowboy, Concrete Handbag, Garvan Lambert, Pending and more. Tickets from €22.30.
Tinderella
Get ready for Ireland’s first major pantomime exclusively for adults! Tinderella comes to 3Olympia Theatre, Dublin on December 30th, 2024 for one night only. Oh, yes we are! A Late Night Panto you won’t want to miss. Tickets from €29 (sold out at the moment – but keep an eye out for last-minute tickets).
Clubs & New Year Events:
The countdown to 2025 is on and Dublin’s nightlife is ready to make it unforgettable! From vibrant club nights to epic New Year’s Eve celebrations, there’s something for everyone. To help you make the most of the season, I’ve curated a list of the top parties happening in the city. Get ready to dance, toast and celebrate in style!
30th, 31st December and 1st of January – New Year Festival
Dublin knows how to ring in the New Year and the annual New Year’s Festival is one of the best ways to celebrate! From December 30 to January 1, Dublin Castle and Meeting House Square will be transformed into vibrant hubs of music, food and entertainment for all ages. Families can enjoy the Midnight Matinee concert with performances by artists like Aby Coulibaly and Saibh Skelly, while adults can join the Countdown Concert featuring Cian Ducrot. The festivities culminate with a spectacular fireworks display lighting up Dún Laoghaire and Howth Harbours, ensuring the New Year is welcomed in with style. Tickets from €12.90 for adults.
1st – Brazilian Party at Diceys Garden – Free entrance by 7pm
Bingo N Beats - RnB Edition at Rascals – Tickets from €17.07
5th – French Party at Diceys Garden – Free entrance by 10pm
7th – Celebrating 20 Years of San Andreas at The Grand Social – Tickets at €26.72
Dj Seinfeld at Index – Tickets start at €22
JAYRON: HOTBOXX Techno Cage Rave at The Grand Social – Tickets at €11.83
10th – Boozy Tuesday Student Party at Diceys Garden – Free entrance by 10pm
14th – Stella Bossi Dj Connect Sleepless Beauty at Index – Tickets start at €22
Electro Vibez | Dopaminez Tropicalia at The Bernard Shaw – Tickets from €16.68
16th – Wild Monday at Diceys Garden – Free entrance by 10pm
18th and 19th – Mall Grab at Index – Tickets start at €41.72
20th – Patrick Topping at Index – Tickets at €41.72
21st – Josh Baker at Index – Tickets start at €22
22nd – ESSEMBLE: LUVSTRUCK & DRAX NELSON at The Sound House – Tickets at €7.68
Charlie Sparks at Index – Tickets start at €22
PHEVER:10 Xmas party at The Bernard Shaw – Free admission
27th – Jeff Mills Americhord Live Ayolxi at Index – Tickets at €22
28th - Time Tunnel Presents - Double Barrel 2 at The Sound House – Tickets at €12
30th – Kojaque Live at Index – Tickets at €33.99
Carnival Dublin at The Button Factory – Tickets at €21.29
New Year Events (31st of December):
New Year's Eve at Diceys Garden - Early Bird - Tickets start at €6.14
New Year's Eve Masquerade Party at The Odeon – Tickets at €17.07
An Elegant Affair New Years Eve Rooftop Party at Hyde Dublin – Tickets at €35
NYE Masquerade Ball at Dtwo - Tickets at €11.38
The Daft Punk Experience - New Year's Eve at The Lighthouse Dun Laoghaire – Tickets at €22.42
Masquerade Ball at 37 Dawson Street - Tickets at €43.87
Fiesta Bailable "New Year 2025" at The Wool Shed – Tickets at €15
New Year's Eve Party at Fitzsimons Temple Bar - Tickets at €38.52
Unmasked at Midnight - NYE at NYX Portobello – Free admission
New Year's Eve Party at Rascals Brewery – Tickets at €15.09
Tepnets l New Year’s Eve Party at The Glasshouse - Tickets at €11.53
FM104s Freaks - New Year's eve at Opium – Tickets at €16.29
NYF Dublin Countdown Concert at Dublin Castle – Tickets at €49.90
NY Eve Party Bachata & Salsa & Social at Bow Lane – Tickets at €6.34
New Year's Eve Party at Buskers Bar – Tickets at €17.07
NYE Party at Lemon & Duke – Tickets at €17.07
With so many incredible events happening this holiday season, Dublin truly comes alive with festive cheer and magical experiences. Whether you’re skating under the stars, exploring twinkling light displays or enjoying a heartwarming Christmas show, there’s something for everyone to make this season unforgettable. Don’t forget to book your tickets early for popular events and fully embrace the holiday spirit.
Nollaig Shona Duit — wishing you a joyful and magical Christmas in Dublin!
Enjoy Christmas Season in Ireland