Christmas markets and events on the island of Ireland (2023)

’Tis the season community!

It’s Christmas market and event season on the island of Ireland and our towns and cities are turning into winter wonderlands. There will be twinkling lights and hot chocolate galore and the magic starts at the markets. From Dublin to Galway and beyond, these markets offer a unique celebration of the season.

At Ireland's Christmas markets, you can wander through the lively stalls adorned with vibrant decorations, where local artisans showcase their skills in an array of handmade gifts, traditional crafts and uniquely Irish treasures that make for perfect holiday presents.

Indulge your tastebuds and sample seasonal delicacies. Vendors offer a tempting array of Irish specialities and international treats. Whether you’re craving a hearty bowl of traditional stew or the sweetness of festive pastries, there’s sure to be something for everyone. 

At some markets, you have the chance to take a ferris wheel ride which brings you high above the festivities, giving you a bird’s eye view of all that’s occurring down below! Have a look at Christmas in Ireland to have a better idea of what to expect when you visit Ireland during the festive period. :) 

Let's have a look at some of the Christmas Markets and events on offer! 

1. Dublin Christmas Market and New Years events (various dates)

There are various Christmas markets on offer in Dublin.

 The Dublin Castle Christmas Market is a real treat. It’s expected to take place from the 6th to the 19th of December. The area will come alive with horse drawn carriage rides, carollers and even a vintage carousel! 

The Swords Castle Christmas market is also a fantastic option. There will be kid’s pop up cinema, magic shows, live shows and meet and greet with Santa! The dates that this market will be running are the 29th and 30th of November and the 1st of December.

Another event taking place over the Christmas/New Year period in Dublin is the Dublin New Year Festival which will take place over four days this year (29th December - 1st January) with over forty acts! You can expect to see big names like The Divine Comedy, The Scratch, The High Kings, Sharon Shannon, Hermitage Green and Gemma Dunleavy! 

2. Galway Christmas market (Nov 10-Dec 22)

 The Galway Christmas market is entering its 13th year and officially one of the longest running markets on the island of Ireland! Expect stalls, the beer tent and a massive ferris wheel on Eyre Square! 

3. Belfast Christmas Market (Nov 18-Dec 22nd)

Each year, at the Belfast Christmas Market, Belfast's city hall is transformed into a German-style Christmas market. You will be greeted by countless stalls and countless cuisines to choose from! 

4. Waterford Winterval (Nov 17-Dec 23rd)

At Waterford Winterval you can practice your ice skating at their yearly ice-rink set up for the festive season! There’s also a packed programme of live music and performances and a multidimensional light show. 

5. Cork Christmas Market (Nov 24 - Jan 7th)

At the Cork Christmas markets theres something for everyone. You can expect traditional Christmas carols performances, a Santa Claus workshop, an express train from the North Pole, a merry go round and much more. 

6. Kilkenny Christmas Markets (Starts 25 Nov)

At Kilkeenny Yulefest Christmas market you’ll be greeted by all kinds of festivities including open air movie nights, live music, dj sets and much more! 

7. Wicklow Christmas Markets (various dates)

During a visit to Wicklow Christmas markets you can expect a Santa Express experience, an alpaca experience, a magical funfair, crafts stalls, fire shows and more. The dates for the market are as follows: November 18th, 19th, 24th, 25th, 26th. December 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 8th, 9th, 10th, 15th, 16th, 17th.

There are all kinds of markets and events to choose from, all with their own unique twist. The atmosphere is always so welcoming and there's a feeling of excitement in the air for people young and old.

If you want to get in the spirit now, why not try cooking up a Christmas feast, the Ireland way!

Merry Christmas from the island of Ireland!