Christmas is a wonderful time to be in Ireland! With a holiday spirit that embraces celebrations and customs passed down through generations, there's no shortage of festive fun (just remember to bring an umbrella or pack a rain cover). Whether you’re experiencing your first Irish Christmas or looking to learn more, here’s your guide to celebrating the season.
Visit the Christmas Markets
One of the loveliest Irish traditions is the return of Christmas markets! Explore vibrant markets in Dublin, Galway and beyond, where you'll find unique crafts, delicious seasonal foods and warm drinks. Enjoy the craic as you shop for gifts and indulge in festive treats!
• Christmas Craft Markets: Head to the National Botanic Gardens for a traditional craft market filled with over 70 chalets showcasing sustainable crafts and seasonal treats.
• Galway Christmas Markets: Discover over 50 wooden chalets in Eyre Square, offering delicious seasonal treats and handmade crafts. Enjoy a ferry wheel ride for a stunning view of the city.
Tip: Check our Tourdesk for a one-day tour to Galway!
• Winteryard: Join the festivities at The Bernard Shaw and The Eatyard, where you’ll find Christmas decor, games and tasty treats. With activities like Jingle Bell Bingo and seasonal markets, there’s something for everyone.
• Stillgarden Christmas Market: Don’t miss the Stillgarden Distillery’s charming market in Dublin. Featuring live music, seasonal foods and local crafts, it’s a perfect spot to soak up the holiday atmosphere.
• Wicklow Christmas Market: This market has something for all ages, including a Santa Experience and an eco-ice rink. Enjoy local stalls and live entertainment.
Tip: Don’t miss the chance to cuddle an alpaca!
• Belfast Christmas Market: Located at City Hall, this market is a culinary delight with international treats ranging from Hog Roast to Belgian chocolates.
• Dublin Castle Market: Experience the enchanting market and light display at Dublin Castle, where historic architecture creates a magical backdrop for festive twinkling lights.
Pantomime
Enjoy the joy of traditional pantomimes in local theatres. These lively shows are filled with humour and music, perfect for a family outing.
Scenic Drive
Enjoy a leisurely drive through Ireland’s beautiful countryside, where charming villages and festive decorations create a picturesque holiday setting. Adare in Co. Limerick is famed for its thatched cottages and medieval charm, while Kinvara in Co. Galway offers stunning coastal views and a vibrant local culture. Carlingford, perched between mountains and the sea, is perfect for exploring medieval history. Cong in Co. Mayo boasts lush scenery and the majestic Ashford Castle, and Kinsale in Co. Cork is known for its colourful streets and gourmet delights. The lively Dingle in Co. Kerry offers breathtaking landscapes, while nearby Kenmare provides a peaceful escape. Enniskerry in Co. Wicklow is a charming village with access to Powerscourt Gardens, and Inistioge in Co. Kilkenny is a serene riverside retreat. For rugged beauty, Roundstone in Co. Connemara is hard to beat, with its coastal views and mountain backdrop.
Christmas Lights: Grafton Street
Grafton Street truly comes alive during the holiday season, transforming into a dazzling festive wonderland. The iconic Dublin shopping street is decked out in stunning Christmas lights and eye-catching decorations, creating the perfect backdrop for some seasonal shopping. As you stroll along, you’ll be treated to live street performances, from carol singers to musicians, adding to the magical atmosphere. It’s the ideal spot to find unique gifts for your loved ones, with plenty of high-end shops, boutiques and local vendors to explore.
Ice Skating
Experience the joy of ice skating at pop-up rinks across the country. It’s a fun way to spend time with loved ones and create lasting holiday memories.
Christmas Lunch & Dinner
Indulge in a traditional Irish Christmas lunch or dinner at local restaurants, featuring hearty dishes and festive desserts shared with family.
Tip: You can book a table via OpenTable.ie that provides you better prices and discounts.
Wonder Lights
Get ready for a magical experience at Malahide Castle and Gardens this festive season with Wonder Lights: Castle of Light! You can explore breathtaking light displays and accessible multi-sensory trails set in the beautiful gardens of this historic castle. It's the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit!
Santa Train Ride
Hop on a festive Santa Train Ride for a unique holiday experience, perfect for families looking to enjoy the season together. There are plenty options in Ireland.
Winter Solstice
Attend Winter Solstice events or visit ancient sites like Newgrange for special winter solstice events, witnessing the breathtaking sunrise illuminating this mystical location.
Charity Run
Get active by joining local charity runs during the Christmas season, such as the “Santa Dash”. Dress up festively and enjoy a day of fun while supporting a good cause.
Embrace Irish Christmas Traditions
Alongside these activities, immerse yourself in unique Irish Christmas traditions:
• Twelve Pubs of Christmas: Join in the favourite Irish pub crawl, visiting twelve pubs in one night. Enjoy a pint at each stop and implement fun rules for the night. Check-out popular pubs in Dublin like Fitzsimons, The Stags Head , Bad Bobs and The Porterhouse.
Tip: Buy tickets at our reception for discounts!
• Mince Pies & Christmas Pudding: Indulge in traditional treats like Christmas Pudding, steamed and served with custard and delicious Mince Pies filled with spices and currants. Find these festive goodies in local bakeries and cafes.
• Leaving Guinness for Santa: In many Irish households, it’s a tradition to leave a pint of Guinness for Santa, along with some mince pies. It’s a fun way to blend local culture into your holiday celebrations.
• Christmas Decoration Competitions: Many towns and neighbourhoods hold decoration contests, showcasing incredible festive displays. Take time to explore and enjoy the holiday spirit reflected in the decorations.
• The Christmas Swim: For over 40 years, brave souls have taken a dip in the sea on Christmas Day to support local charities. Join the fun by watching or participating (don’t forget to bring warm clothes!).
No matter which traditions you’re most looking forward to, the festive season in Ireland is sure to be filled with joy, warmth and plenty of holiday cheer. Whether it’s exploring Christmas markets, enjoying traditional Irish treats or simply soaking in the magical atmosphere, there’s something special for everyone.
If you need to book accommodation in Dublin and countryside, don’t forget to take advantage of discount rates by booking here.
Have a wonderful time and a very Merry Christmas in Ireland!
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