Craving a winter city break close to home? A trip to Dublin’s Christmas markets is ideal.
While it might be a year-round destination, experiencing Christmas in Dublin is undeniably special. The streets shimmer with glowing fairy lights, music flows out of every pub and there’s no shortage of cosy Christmas markets. And the best bit? Dublin couldn’t be easier to reach from the UK.
Discover the best Christmas markets in Dublin
Exploring Dublin in December
Planning a trip to Ireland at Xmas is never a bad idea. As well as incredible shopping, legendary pub culture and heaps of history, you’ll have a selection of fantastic Dublin Xmas markets to explore. From those that spring up throughout the Christmas period to artisan markets that appear for just a weekend, there are so many charming options. They’re not just great spots to soak up some festive ambience. You’ll also find amazing gifts, joyful entertainment and all kinds of mouthwatering food. Ready to jump in?
5 of the best Christmas markets in Dublin
From unique settings to eco-friendly vibes, here’s a handful of the wonderful Dublin Christmas markets on offer:
Dublin Castle Christmas Market
Central & charming
28th November – 18th December 2024
Christmas at the Castle takes place in Dublin Castle’s courtyard, right in the heart of the city. It’s a favourite among locals – with wooden chalets selling all sorts of goodies, plus seasonal entertainment. Don’t miss the illuminated Christmas trees lining the castle’s entrance!
The Swords Castle Christmas Market
Medieval merriment
29 and 30 November, 1, 7 and 8 December 2024
Can’t get enough of historical settings? Swords Castle in Dublin is unmissable. For two weekends in late November and early December, the medieval castle’s grounds come alive with over 50 stalls teeming with gifts, crafts and delicious food.
Dún Laoghaire Christmas Market
Shimmering Christmas lights
30 November – 23 December 2024
Head to coastal Dún Laoghaire, Dublin for a fun and festive experience by the Irish Sea. The suburb’s Christmas festival is famed for its shimmering lights. You’ll also find a huge ice rink, a Ferris wheel and stalls selling everything from handmade gifts to festive treats.
Botanic Gardens Dublin Christmas Craft Market
Eco-friendly crafts
14 and 15 December 2024
For a Dublin Xmas market with an eco-friendly vibe, add the Botanic Gardens to your itinerary. Not only does it champion stallholders selling ethically and sustainably made products. It’s also set in and around the gardens’ historic glasshouses.
Bremore Castle Christmas Market
Family fun
7 and 8 December 2024
Venture to Bremore Castle in early December and you’ll be rewarded with a truly charming Irish Xmas market experience. Along with dozens of traders selling delightful gifts, the market features a Santa’s Grotto and a full programme of carol singing and live music.
Tips for visiting Dublin’s Christmas markets
Dublin in December is chilly, so pack warm layers
Bring cash as some vendors may not accept cards for smaller purchases
Research Dublin’s transport routes in advance to save yourself time
More Christmas events in Dublin
Wondering what else there is to do in Dublin at Christmas? Here are a few of our favourite suggestions:
Wild Lights at Dublin Zoo
A dazzling light display
Dublin Zoo
24 October 2024 – 5 January 2025
If admiring glittering lights is among your top Christmas activities, don’t miss Wild Lights at Dublin Zoo. It features dozens of giant silk lanterns shaped like the zoo’s inhabitants and various festive characters. Tickets sell out quickly, so book early.
Christmas at the Guinness Storehouse
A festive cheers!
Guinness Storehouse
November 2024 – early January 2025
The Guinness Factory in Dublin is an absolute must-visit, no matter when you head to the city. During the winter, it’s given a festive makeover – complete with delightful decorations and special seasonal events including a festive fayre.
Christmas decorations in Dublin
Wonderful window displays
Dublin
Stroll through Dublin’s city centre to admire not only the Christmas lights but fantastic decorations. Many shops (including the Brown Thomas department store) feature fabulous window displays. Plus, Temple Bar is awash with fairy lights and good cheer.
The Moving Crib
A Dublin tradition
42 Parnell Square West
28 November 2024 – 5 January 2025
Experience a cherished Dublin tradition at The Moving Crib. 2024 marks the 68th year of this charming installation that brings the Nativity story to life with unique animatronic characters and exquisite detailing.
Smithfield Lights by Night
Enchanting illuminations
Smithfield Square
1 December 2024 – 1 January 2025
Smithfield Square hosts some of the best Christmas lights in Dublin. Prepare to be transported into a festive wonderland, complete with a giant Christmas tree. The installations form part of the city-wide Winter Lights Dublin festival.
Christmas shows in Dublin
A festive line-up
Various loactions
Various dates
One of the best Christmas activities to do in Dublin is catch a show! This year’s line-up includes Fairytale of New York at The Gaity, A Christmas Carol at The Gate, and the Christmas at the Movies orchestra show at the National Concert Hall.
Budgeting for your Dublin Christmas getaway
Set your heart on Dublin for a festive weekend away? Here’s what a visit to the city’s Christmas markets will cost you:
Artisan Christmas ornaments: €5-25
Local crafts and gifts: €10-50
Mulled wine, a pint of Guinness or a hot chocolate: €4-6
Gourmet food items like cheese and chutneys: €5-15
Fabulous light displays. Grand historic backdrops. Plenty of Irish cheer. All this – and more – await when you set your sights on a Dublin Christmas market getaway in 2024.
Disclaimer: Please be aware that sometimes opening times and dates of Christmas Markets may change locally after we have published our article.
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