Christmas in Ireland

Family and I will be in Ireland over Christmas.  Planning on being in the Galway area for Christmas.  Right now just planning on driving around and maybe seeing the Cliffs on Christmas Day.  Is there anything else we could do on that day?  Was thinking about hiking up Croagh Patrick but the Visitor's Center will be closed and not sure if we can go up when the V.C. is closed.

Hi Shawna,

How lovely that you'll be spending Christmas in Ireland, and the Galway area is a great place to spend some time.

Good news: you can climb Croagh Patrick any time of the year, you do not need to pass through the visitor centre to make the climb. :) Keep in mind it is not an easy walk, it is a 7km pilgrim trail and 750m climb. We would advise you to wear sturdy footwear, preferably good hiking boots.

For something a little different on Christmas Day, you could join the thousands of hardy souls that creep down to the coast and throw themselves into sea. If that's a bit too adventurous (not to mention quite cold, although the sense of achievement is worth it for many of the revellers!), you could cosy up to the fireplace in Ballynahinch Castle.

Christmas time is a special time on the island, and Christmas day is very much a family day. On Christmas Day pretty much everything is closed for business. However, outdoors pursuits like hikes and walks on public land will of course be accessible!

What kind of things do you and your family like to do when you're on holiday? Anything special you had in mind?

Wishing you a wonderful day,
Cornelia

My husband, daughter and I will be in Ireland 12-21 until evening of 12-26.  We are flying into and out of Dublin.  I understand that lots of attractions will be closed 12-24 through 12-26.  Trying to decide if we should stay in Dublin upon arrival to see things and then head out towards Galway and/or Dingle Peninsula or if we should reverse our plans and be in Dublin for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

Any advice is greatly appreciated.

Hi Beckie, 

It's so exciting you'll be here this December! :D Will this be your first time visiting us? 

As Corine already mentioned, people usually spend Christmas at home with their friends and family, so a lot of attractions will be closed during that time. Exploring the Dingle Peninsula and Galway is possible all year round though, so it is a great idea to travel to this part of the island between the 24th and 26th. 

What attractions are you interested in visiting in Dublin? I'd be more than happy to check which ones will be open before Christmas. :) 

Warm regards,

Melin

Hi Cornelia,

My family is usually going to a sporting event when we head out of town but when we do go on a true vacation/holiday we like natural sights, historical places and just hanging out like a local.  I think we might go to the Limerick races on St. Stephen's Day and just drive around and sightsee on Christmas Day.  Don't know if I'm brave enough to jump in the sea but might go watch the other crazy people do that.

Are pubs usually open on Christmas Eve?

Hi Shawna,

A Christmas day dip is something of a tradition amongst the die-hard sea swimmers on the island of Ireland!

Generally, pubs will close early on Christmas Eve, around 6-8 pm so that everyone can get home for the night and celebrate the holidays with family. 

There will also be many carol services held throughout the towns and cities if you fancy getting in the Christmas spirit. Again, please check locally for events happening.

Your time with us will soon be here, we hope that you enjoy an Irish Christmas, please feel free to let us know what you manage to see and do, there may even be some more suggestions from our fellow members.

Martin

Hi Shawna, 

Even though it's been a while since Christmas, we would love to read all about your holiday adventures on the island. :) 

Where did you end up spending Christmas Day, and did you get to see the Races on St. Stephen's Day? 

Warm regards,

Melin