Christmas & Other Events Dublin 2025
- The Kick Team
- Nov 9
- 3 min read
Updated: Nov 14
November 9th to January 2026
Experience the Magic of Christmas in Dublin: A Guide to Festive Events and Activities
As the holiday season approaches, Dublin transforms into a winter wonderland filled with twinkling lights, bustling markets, and joyful celebrations. From mid-November through early January, the city offers a myriad of festive events and activities that capture the spirit of Christmas. Whether you're a local or visiting from afar, here's your ultimate guide to experiencing the magic of Christmas in Dublin.
TwinkleTown at Smithfield Square
Kick off your festive season with a visit to TwinkleTown at Smithfield Square, Dublin’s major new Christmas market and festival. Running from November 22, 2025, to January 2, 2026, this enchanting event features an ice rink, Ireland’s first Ice Museum, a big wheel, Nutcracker Snug, and more. It's the perfect spot for families and friends to soak up the holiday atmosphere while enjoying delicious food and unique crafts.
Dublin Castle Christmas Market ( Updated 14/11 25 )
Unfortunately for 2025 & 2026 the Dublin Castle Market has been cancelled For a truly magical experience, head to the Dublin Castle Christmas Market, the city's largest and most atmospheric market. From November 27 to December 17, 2025, the historic grounds of Dublin Castle come alive with wooden cabins offering festive treats, crafts, a carousel, and a Ferris wheel. Enjoy live choir performances as you explore this iconic market.
Christmas Lights Ceremonies
Dublin's Christmas lights are a sight to behold, and the switch-on ceremonies are a beloved tradition. The Grafton Street lights are typically illuminated in mid-November. Henry Street follows suit, usually on the third Sunday in November. Don’t miss the grand O’Connell Street Christmas Tree Lighting on the last Sunday of November, which was November 25 last year.
Music, Carols, and Performances
Immerse yourself in the sounds of the season with "Carols for Christmas" at Christ Church Cathedral on December 6 and 13, 2025. Enjoy the angelic voices of the New Dublin Voices choir in this stunning setting. For ballet enthusiasts, "The Nutcracker" performances in December are a must-see. Dublin also hosts various pantomimes and Christmas shows throughout the month, offering entertainment for all ages.
Other Christmas Markets and Fairs
Explore more of Dublin's festive offerings at the Gifted, the Contemporary Craft & Design Fair at the RDS, typically held in early December. On November 22, 2025, the Christmas Market at the Hendrick Smithfield will also open its doors. For a more intimate experience, visit the smaller castle markets at locations like Swords Castle and Rathfarnham Castle.
Family and Outdoor Attractions
Families will love the Luggwoods Enchanted Forest, just outside Dublin, where Christmas trails and a Santa experience create lasting memories. Ice skating enthusiasts should check out Dundrum On Ice at Dundrum Town Centre. For a mesmerizing evening, visit the Wild Lights at Dublin Zoo, a large lantern festival running from November through early January.
Traditional and Cultural Events
Celebrate the festive season with traditional events like the Leopardstown Christmas Festival, a National Hunt Racing event from December 26–29, 2025. Enjoy "Christmas by Candlelight" concerts at various churches in December, offering a serene and beautiful way to enjoy holiday music.
After New Year
Even after New Year’s celebrations, some markets and TwinkleTown extend their festivities until January 2–4, 2026, keeping the holiday spirit alive into the new year.
Plan Your Visit
Dublin is a city that truly comes alive during the festive season, offering a plethora of events and activities for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're exploring bustling markets, enjoying a concert, or simply taking in the stunning light displays, Dublin's Christmas events promise to create cherished memories. So bundle up, sip on some mulled wine, and immerse yourself in the holiday cheer that fills the air. Happy holidays!
Events Table
Event Name | Location | Dates (2025–26) | Description | ||
TwinkleTown at Smithfield Square | Smithfield Square | Nov 22 – Jan 2 | Market, ice rink, museum, rides, food | ||
Dublin Castle Christmas Market | Dublin Castle | Nov 27 – Dec 17 | Market, food, rides, choirs | ||
Grafton Street Lights | Grafton Street | Nov 14 | Christmas lights switch-on | ||
Henry Street Lights | Henry Street | Nov 17 | Christmas lights switch-on | ||
O’Connell Street Tree Lighting | O’Connell Street | Nov 25 | Christmas tree lighting ceremony | ||
Carols for Christmas | Christ Church Cathedral | Dec 6 & Dec 13 | Choir concerts |
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