Exploring the heart of Irish Christmas: A Guide to the Best Festive Activities

Christmas in Ireland is more than a season; it’s a festivity that blends customs, fun, and a bit of wonder. From the lively stalls to the brilliant zoo lights, this Celtic land glows with Irish Christmas charm. Let’s go on an adventure through some of Ireland’s most captivating Christmas experiences.

Galway Christmas Market

Stalls decorated with homemade presents, crafty products, and tasty treats provide a great chance for original Christmas shopping. The market’s cheerful mood, brightened by glittering lights and the friendliness of the people, is an experience that reflects the essence of Irish Christmas spirit.

Details: Galway Christmas Market has been open to the public since November 10th, 2023 and will remain open until January 7th, 2024.

Dazzling wild light show at Dublin Zoo

Imagine yourself walking through the zoo illuminated by beautiful animal sculptures. Dublin Zoo’s Wild Lights event is a magical Christmas experience that turns the zoo into a stunning nighttime show. Inspired by wildlife and traditional Chinese lantern art, this event includes illuminated sculptures, themed exhibits, live performances and more.  We have great news for you: it is an activity included in the Atlas social programme!

Details: Wild Lights opens on the 16th November 2023 runs through into January 2024. Visit their Website here.

Santa’s Enchanted Forest Christmas

Located in the Dublin mountains, Luggwoods offers an authentic Father Christmas experience that is both beautiful and natural.

The main attraction of the event is Santa’s Enchanted Forest Walk of Wonders, the forest trail is full of twinkling lights, creating a festive feeling all around.

Santa’s Enchanted Forest Christmas Experience at Luggwoods 2023 is a must-visit event during the holiday season. With its enchanting forest walk, authentic Santa experience, and dedicated staff, it promises to be an unforgettable experience.

Details: November 24th – December 23rd 

Adult ticket: €18  

More information: Santa’s Enchanted Forest Christmas

Dublin Castle’s Christmas

One of the most popular Christmas events of the year, Irish Christmas at the Castle.

Immerse yourself in the magic of the Alpine market! Over 25 Christmas stalls await for you, offering handmade ornaments and culinary delights.

The historic courtyard of Dublin Castle, a living testament to over 1,000 years of captivating history, will be filled with festive food, crafts and entertainment. Exploring the stalls, you will find yourself surrounded by centuries of history, making this experience not just a visit to the market, but a journey back in time.

Details: From 6th to 19th December 2023, from 12:00 – 21:00

Tickets are not required for Christmas at the Castle 2023.

Christmas Pub’s tour

If you like beer and spending time with friends, you can take a tour of Dublin’s bars. 

Dublin’s most decorated pub in 2022, THE GINGER MAN. Every year over a thousand hours are spent decorating the pub, making it the perfect pub to get you in the Christmas spirit.

HOLE IN THE WALL was opened in 1651, The Holer is located in Phoenix Park. It’s the longest pub in Europe, and it certainly puts a lot of effort into its celebrations. It takes up to a month to decorate the 100m length, so it’s no wonder this pub is the most festive in Ireland.

TEMPLE BAR area is a must visit during the Christmas Season. Street performers regularly take centre stage at the square and perform Christmas Carols for all to enjoy. While the council hangs impressive visual lighting from the buildings.

In a brief review

Ireland’s Christmas is not just a season, it’s about traditions and moments shared with loved ones. From the festive markets of Galway to the enchanting walks in  Luggwoods to the historic splendour of Dublin Castle, each experience brings the spirit of Christmas. Walking through the lights of Dublin Zoo or drinking a beer in the pubs, there is a common feeling of celebration that bonds us all during this magical time. The Christmas spirit will continue to bless our hearts and bring us closer together year after year.

Written by José Ángel Noguera