Off Out 25th November 2024 by Stellar Magazine

7 Christmas Events in Ireland You Won’t Want to Miss

Planning some bits soon?

Photo: Andres Poveda

If you’re looking for Christmas events around the country that are truly worth visiting, we’ve got the list for you.

Whether you’re searching for family-friendly activities to get your kids excited about the season, a romantic Christmas-inspired date, or festive events to get yourself into the Christmas spirit, there’s something here for everyone.

Winter can be tough sometimes, so getting yourself out of the house and spending time at these weekend activities can really make your winter that bit more enjoyable—and good news, they’re all very affordable.

The Galway Christmas Markets

Yes, yes, we’re aware you’ve all probably already seen and heard about the Galway Christmas Markets, but we have to give them a mention—they’re truly worth visiting, and there’s something for everyone.

Held annually in the heart of Galway’s Eyre Square, this year’s markets have expanded to include over 50 stalls, catering to everyone, from beer tents for the alcohol enthusiasts to a Santa Express train, a carousel, and a ferris wheel for anyone looking to keep kids entertained.

 

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The Belfast Christmas Markets

Although Belfast might feel like a bit of a trek for those in the south of Ireland, these markets are truly amazing and even larger than the Galway markets.

Held at Belfast City Hall, this German-inspired market features over 90 chalet stalls offering everything from food to crafts to drinks. It’s an impressive experience, and Belfast itself is a lovely city—perfect for anyone considering making it a weekend trip.

Kilkenny Yulefest

A more recent Christmas festival that has come to fruition is the Kilkenny Yulefest. Set in the medieval city of Kilkenny, the Yulefest takes place right outside Kilkenny Castle in the heart of the city.

The festival features stalls, a ferris wheel, a traditional carousel, and the picturesque medieval city draped in Christmas lights for the winter months.

As part of their winter programme, there are plenty of activities and events scheduled on their Christmas calendar.

Gifted, The Contemporary Craft and Design Fair

This is the Black Friday of Irish craft and design. Held in the RDS annually, this fair is dedicated to hosting artists, craftspeople, and designers from around Ireland, where they can sell their designs to the public—perfect for sourcing Irish-made Christmas presents.

This year, the fair boasts a whopping 300 stalls and 100 artisan food producers. It’s the perfect opportunity to tick off your Christmas shopping list while supporting Irish design and sustainability. Gifted will take place at Dublin’s RDS from Wednesday, 4th December to Sunday, 8th December.

 

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The Christmas Experience at Malahide Castle

This one is really for the kids. Held at the fabulous Malahide Castle, the scene is decorated and set up as a journey to meet the main man himself, Mr Claus.

Kids will get the chance to meet Christmas characters along the way as they enter the castle grounds. The experience is set to start on 22nd November and finish on 23rd December.

Bunratty Castle Christmas Experience

This is a truly special experience for any family looking to give their kids a totally immersive Christmas adventure. The charming village of Bunratty hosts one of the most sought-after Christmas events annually, centred around the fabulous Bunratty Castle.

The experience includes a Santa’s grotto in the castle itself, a Polar Express trip, a visit to Mrs Claus, traditional Christmas tales with their resident Seanchaí, a chance to meet the Christmas characters on the village street, and full access to the enchanting lights display on the castle grounds.

Wonderlights Experience at Fota House and Gardens

We’ve all heard of the Dublin Zoo Lights Experience, but this is Cork’s equivalent, and we’re pretty sure it’s just as good.

Held at Fota Island in Cork, the lights experience transforms the park into a winter wonderland. Take a journey through the grounds with a light show mapped out and finish your experience with a visit to the Alpine food and drink village on the grounds for some hot chocolate and Christmas treats.

@cravingcork Ireland largest, award-winning immersive light show experience has just launched in Cork, and it’s absolutely breathtaking 😍 Wonderlights is now open at Fota House & Gardens 📍 #CravingCork #Cork #Wonderlights #FYP #ForYouPage #Viral #Lightshow #Christmas #ThingsToDo ♬ original sound – Craving Cork

Words by Cillian Murphy