Christmas Markets in Dublin: A Complete Guide with Events, Shops & Highlights

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Every holiday season, Dublin becomes a festive paradise with Christmas markets dotted across the city providing everything from mouthwatering cuisine to handcrafted goods. Featuring unusual booths, live performances, and seasonal treats, these markets capture Dublin’s festive attitude. The city is perfect for Christmas shopping and family trips as visitors can discover traditional and modern items, savor great mulled wine, and attend celebratory events. From local favorites to the old Dublin Castle Christmas Market, every market has its unique mix of appeal and holiday pleasure. This guide to Dublin’s top 10 Christmas markets will help you navigate the best of the city’s holiday offerings, including dates, locations, must-see events, and more. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these markets provide the perfect backdrop for creating holiday memories in Dublin. For a guide to traditional German festivities, visit the Unmissable Mifflinburg Christmas Markets.

1. Dublin Castle Christmas Market

Set against the ancient and gorgeous background of Dublin Castle, the Dublin Castle Christmas Market is among the most enchanting holiday experiences one might find in Dublin. With its exquisitely adorned booths, glittering lights, and towering Christmas tree, this festive market—known for its charm and elegance—bakes the holiday spirit to life.Apart from appreciating live Christmas music, guests may browse many booths offering homemade presents, seasonal decorations, and cuisine of great quality. Families, friends, and holiday enthusiasts will find this place remarkable because of its unique surroundings on the castle grounds, which give historical character. With events ranging from the traditional Tree Lighting Ceremony to choir performances to Santa’s visit, the Dublin Castle Christmas Market offers entertainment fit for all ages. Castle in Dublin Dublin’s market is a must-see during the Christmas season because of its welcoming vibe and chances for holiday shopping and entertainment. Whether your quest is for the perfect Christmas present or simply to enjoy a cup of mulled wine in a gorgeous setting, Dublin Castle’s Christmas Market captures the essence of a classic European Christmas with a decidedly Irish spin.

Dublin Castle Christmas Market

Address: Dublin Castle, Dame St, Dublin, Ireland
Dates: December 8 – December 22, 2025
Opening Hours: Daily 12:00 PM–8:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Free
Ticket Information: No ticket required; visit the Dublin Castle website for event details

Nearest T Stations:

  • St. Stephen’s Green Luas Station
  • Tara Street Train Station

Events:

  • Tree Lighting Ceremony – A grand lighting ceremony kicks off the festive season.
  • Choir Performances – Enjoy local choirs singing holiday classics.
  • Family Craft Workshops – Make festive ornaments with kids in mind.
  • Live Irish Music Sessions – Traditional Irish bands bring lively music to the market.
  • Storytime with Santa – Kids can meet Santa and enjoy storytelling sessions.

Famous Shops/Stalls:

  • Celtic Handcrafts – Unique, Irish-inspired ornaments and gifts.
  • Artisan Chocolates – Irish-made chocolate treats perfect for gifting.
  • Woolen Wonders – Cozy scarves, gloves, and hats crafted locally.
  • Dublin Candle Company – Festive, hand-poured holiday candles.
  • Irish Whiskey Stand – Sample and buy locally distilled Irish whiskey.

Special Spots:

  • Dublin Castle Courtyard – Beautifully decorated and ideal for holiday photos.
  • Medieval Tower – Historic tower providing a scenic backdrop.
  • Christmas Tree Display – Large Christmas tree adorned with lights and ornaments.
  • Market Entrance Arch – Festive archway decorated with holiday greenery.
  • Christmas Pathways – Twinkling light displays along the market paths.

Parking:

Castle Street Car Park, €3/hour

Nearby Hotels:

  • The Clarence Hotel
  • Hard Rock Hotel Dublin
  • Handel’s Hotel

Nearby Restaurants:

  • Queen of Tarts – Festive pastries and Irish treats.
  • The Bank on College Green – Seasonal Irish cuisine in a historic setting.
  • Darkey Kelly’s Bar – Traditional pub fare with a cozy ambiance.

2. Smithfield Christmas Market

The bustling Smithfield Square in Dublin gains holiday energy and community spirit from Smithfield Christmas Market. Renowned for its friendly environment, the market presents a range of distinctive, locally produced goods ideal for Christmas buying. There is something for everyone from homemade jewelry and specialty delicacies to warm winter clothing. Families especially like this market because of its interesting festivities, which include a gingerbread home design contest, a vibrant light display, and an interactive Nativity scene involving real animals. While food sellers provide seasonal goodies like hot cocoa and Irish pastries, local choirs sing holiday songs, thereby filling the plaza with joyful sounds. Situated in one of Dublin’s most culturally diverse neighborhoods, the Smithfield Christmas Market offers the ideal fusion of modern holiday fun with legacy. The market welcomes guests to have a pleasant and happy holiday experience with its lovely booths, festive festivities, and close proximity to historic places. Smithfield Christmas Market encapsulates the spirit of the holiday season in a small, community-oriented environment whether your gift-buying or appreciating of the festive entertainment.

Smithfield Christmas Market

Address: Smithfield Square, Dublin, Ireland
Dates: December 5 – December 23, 2025
Opening Hours: Monday–Thursday 12:00 PM–8:00 PM, Friday–Sunday 10:00 AM–9:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Free
Ticket Information: No ticket required; event details available on Visit Dublin

Nearest T Stations:

  • Smithfield Luas Stop
  • Heuston Station

Events:

  • Christmas Light Show – A colorful display of lights set to holiday music every evening.
  • Artisan Food Tasting – Sample festive foods from Irish producers.
  • Crafting Workshops – Kids and adults can create unique ornaments.
  • Live Caroling Nights – Choirs perform holiday songs, adding a festive ambiance.
  • Interactive Nativity Scene – A family-friendly nativity display with live animals.

Famous Shops/Stalls:

  • Irish Woolens – Traditional Irish wool products, including scarves and hats.
  • Ballymaloe Foods – Taste and purchase locally produced jams and chutneys.
  • Smithfield Sweets – Seasonal sweets and chocolates.
  • Emerald Jewelry Stand – Irish-themed jewelry featuring emerald stones.
  • Vintage Finds – Antique holiday decor and unique treasures.

Special Spots:

  • Smithfield Square Fire Pit – Gather around the fire pit for warmth and cozy conversations.
  • Art Installation Area – Stunning seasonal art displays perfect for photos.
  • Holiday Food Court – A dining area with various food stalls and seating.
  • Mistletoe Walk – Romantic path lined with mistletoe and lights.
  • Historic Smithfield Lanterns – Beautiful lanterns decorating the square.

Parking:

Smithfield Car Park, €3/hour

Nearby Hotels:

  • Maldron Hotel Smithfield
  • Generator Dublin
  • The Hendrick Smithfield

Nearby Restaurants:

  • Token – Unique arcade bar with tasty pub fare.
  • My Meat Wagon – BBQ-inspired dishes and holiday specials.
  • Christophe’s Café – Cozy café with seasonal treats and warm drinks.

3. George’s Street Arcade Christmas Market

One of the first shopping arcades in Europe, Dublin’s historic George’s Street Arcade is the famous holiday destination known as the George’s Street Arcade Christmas Market. Every December, the arcade becomes a festive bazaar full of seasonal appeal and distinctive Christmas items from its old architecture and vibrant energy. Those searching for one-of- a-kind presents will especially find this market interesting as exhibitors include handcrafted jewelry, vintage clothes, handcrafted candles, and other unusual holiday treasures. Live performances by nearby artists let visitors have a happy soundtrack for their shopping trip. Families will also love the holiday storytime sessions for children and the special gift-wrapping service that adds a festive touch to each purchase. The historic setting of George’s Street Arcade, decorated with lights and holiday greenery, makes for a magical shopping experience that captures Dublin’s rich cultural heritage. The George’s Street Arcade Christmas Market is a must-visit for those seeking both nostalgia and new holiday traditions in the heart of Dublin.

George’s Street Arcade Christmas Market

Address: George’s Street Arcade, South Great George’s Street, Dublin, Ireland
Dates: December 1 – December 24, 2025
Opening Hours: Monday–Sunday 10:00 AM–7:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Free
Ticket Information: No tickets required; event information on Visit Dublin

Nearest T Stations:

  • St. Stephen’s Green Luas Station
  • Tara Street Train Station

Events:

  • Gift Wrapping Station – Get gifts wrapped with a festive touch by local volunteers.
  • Local Music Sessions – Irish musicians play holiday tunes daily.
  • Storytelling Corner – Family-friendly storytelling sessions for kids.
  • Holiday Art Show – Local artists display holiday-themed artworks.
  • Baking Workshop – Learn to make festive Irish pastries and treats.

Famous Shops/Stalls:

  • Handmade Candles – Artisan candles with seasonal scents.
  • Vintage Clothing Boutique – Unique, vintage winter fashion.
  • Irish Whiskey Gifts – Small-batch Irish whiskeys, perfect for gifting.
  • Ornament Maker – Customized ornaments featuring Irish themes.
  • Georgian Jewelry – Locally crafted jewelry with a historic flair.

Special Spots:

  • Christmas Archway – A beautifully decorated entrance with holiday lights.
  • Artisan Alley – A section of unique handmade crafts and artwork.
  • Arcade Courtyard – Courtyard seating with seasonal décor.
  • Historic Interior – The arcade’s Victorian architecture adorned with lights.
  • Gift Display Window – Rotating display of locally sourced gifts and décor.

Parking:

Q-Park St. Stephen’s Green, €4/hour

Nearby Hotels:

  • Drury Court Hotel
  • The Grafton Hotel
  • Brooks Hotel

Nearby Restaurants:

  • The Market Bar – Tapas and festive specials.
  • Yamamori – Japanese restaurant with holiday-inspired cocktails.
  • Accents Coffee & Tea Lounge – Cozy café with holiday drinks and desserts.

4. CHQ Christmas Market

The CHQ Christmas Market brings holiday magic to Dublin’s Custom House Quay, setting up shop in the beautiful, historic CHQ Building. Known for its modern and spacious setting, the CHQ Christmas Market features an indoor winter wonderland with unique holiday activities, including an indoor snowfall experience, adding a touch of winter magic regardless of the weather.Perfect for present purchasing and joyful browsing, visitors may investigate booths providing a combination of handcrafted items, Irish cuisine, and winter decorations. Along with pop-up crafts and Irish dancing events where participants may pick up wreath decorating and candle-making techniques, the market features With separate sections for children’s games and live storytime events, the CHQ Christmas Market is particularly lively and family-friendly. Situated by the River Liffey, this market offers everyone breathtaking vistas and a unique holiday experience. Families and vacation visitors alike should not miss the CHQ Christmas Market, which combines seasonal enjoyment with a modern Irish spin.

CHQ Christmas Market

Address: CHQ Building, Custom House Quay, Dublin, Ireland
Dates: December 4 – December 24, 2025
Opening Hours: Monday–Thursday 11:00 AM–8:00 PM, Friday–Sunday 10:00 AM–9:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Free
Ticket Information: Free entry; event details on the CHQ Dublin website

Nearest T Stations:

  • Docklands Luas Stop
  • Connolly Station

Events:

  • Indoor Snowfall Experience – Experience a simulated snowfall inside CHQ.
  • Irish Dance Performances – Irish dancers perform holiday-inspired routines.
  • Craft Beer Tastings – Sample local craft beers with holiday flavors.
  • Children’s Christmas Storytime – Story sessions for kids with festive tales.
  • Pop-Up Artisan Classes – Learn skills like candle-making and wreath decorating.

Famous Shops/Stalls:

  • The Teeling Whiskey Stand – Sample and buy Irish whiskey.
  • Christmas Cookies Stand – Freshly baked holiday cookies.
  • Wooly Sheep Co. – Traditional Irish knitwear.
  • Custom Jewelry by Emma – Handmade pieces featuring Celtic designs.
  • Dublin Sweets – Assortment of locally-made sweets and chocolates.

Special Spots:

  • CHQ Atrium – Decorated with hanging lights and holiday greenery.
  • Snowfall Room – A magical indoor snowfall experience.
  • Riverside Seating Area – Scenic seating overlooking the river.
  • Historic Custom House Quay – A beautiful, historic quay decorated for the holidays.
  • Photo Wall – Perfect backdrop for holiday photos.

Parking:

Q-Park IFSC, €4/hour

Nearby Hotels:

  • The Spencer Hotel
  • Hilton Garden Inn Dublin Custom House
  • Clayton Hotel Cardiff Lane

Nearby Restaurants:

  • ELY Wine Bar – Wine and holiday charcuterie boards.
  • The Harbourmaster – Classic Irish fare with a seasonal menu.
  • J2 Grill & Sushi – Japanese cuisine with holiday-inspired options.

5. RDS Christmas Market

One of the most often visited holidays in Dublin is the RDS Christmas Market, which takes place in the RDS Arena in Ballsbridge. This market is a festive atmosphere bursting with lights, decorations, and a busy assortment of holiday vendors. Renowned for its range of premium Irish goods, the market is a go-to destination for people wishing to buy handcrafted presents ranging from traditional Irish knitwear to unusual holiday décor. Along with many of family-friendly events, the RDS Christmas Market has Santa’s Workshop, cookery demos, and a winter wonderland walk-through loaded with light installations.While adults could visit culinary demos to pick Christmas delicacies from surrounding chefs, children can enjoy craft stations where they might design their own holiday decorations.With its large layout and seasonal events for residents as well as guests, the RDS Christmas Market is a holiday highlight. This is the ideal location to really embrace the Christmas mood, choose meaningful gifts, and spend time with dear ones.

RDS Christmas Market

Address: RDS Arena, Ballsbridge, Dublin, Ireland
Dates: December 10 – December 23, 2025
Opening Hours: Monday–Sunday 11:00 AM–9:00 PM
Entrance Fee: €5 for adults, free for children under 12
Ticket Information: Tickets available on the RDS website

Nearest T Stations:

  • Sandymount Station
  • Lansdowne Road Station

Events:

  • Winter Wonderland Walk – Walkthrough light installations and festive displays.
  • Live Christmas Caroling – Choirs performing holiday favorites daily.
  • Santa’s Workshop – Visit Santa, with opportunities for photos.
  • Cooking Demonstrations – Local chefs share holiday recipes and tips.
  • Kids’ Craft Corner – A hands-on area for kids to make ornaments and holiday crafts.

Famous Shops/Stalls:

  • Irish Knitwear – Locally made hats, scarves, and sweaters.
  • Handmade Soaps – Scented holiday soaps, perfect for gifting.
  • Christmas Decor by Roisin – Beautiful, handcrafted holiday decorations.
  • Holiday Gourmet – Fine chocolates, cheeses, and jams from Ireland.
  • Emerald Isle Candles – Locally crafted candles with Irish-inspired scents.

Special Spots:

  • Festive Light Tunnel – Walk through a tunnel of lights leading to the market entrance.
  • Santa’s Grotto – A cozy setup where children can meet Santa.
  • Winter Forest Path – Decorated path that gives a winter wonderland feel.
  • RDS Grand Hall – Centerpiece of the market with stalls and live music.
  • Gingerbread Village – A miniature gingerbread village display.

Parking:

RDS Car Park, €5/day

Nearby Hotels:

  • InterContinental Dublin
  • Herbert Park Hotel
  • Ballsbridge Hotel

Nearby Restaurants:

  • The Bridge 1859 – Irish pub with holiday specials.
  • Roly’s Bistro – Cozy spot for festive meals.
  • Merrion Inn – A gastropub with seasonal dishes and holiday cocktails.

6. Dún Laoghaire Christmas Market

The Dún Laoghaire Christmas Market offers a festive seaside escape, bringing holiday cheer to the beautiful coastal town of Dún Laoghaire. Set along the picturesque harbor, this market provides a unique combination of seaside views and holiday magic. Visitors can enjoy seasonal stalls selling everything from handmade jewelry to local food specialties, making it a wonderful spot for holiday shopping. The market’s events, including the harbor light show and a festive Christmas parade, bring joy to visitors of all ages. Families will appreciate the horse-drawn carriage rides and kid-friendly crafting areas, while couples can enjoy a romantic stroll along the lighthouse path decorated with twinkling lights. The Dún Laoghaire Christmas Market offers a serene yet lively holiday experience with stunning waterfront scenery, festive entertainment, and unique local crafts. It’s a fantastic destination for those looking to celebrate the holidays by the sea, combining Dublin’s festive spirit with the charm of a coastal town.

Dún Laoghaire Christmas Market

Address: Dún Laoghaire Harbour, Marine Road, Dublin, Ireland
Dates: November 30 – December 23, 2025
Opening Hours: Friday–Sunday 11:00 AM–8:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Free
Ticket Information: No tickets required; visit the Dún Laoghaire website for more details

Nearest T Stations:

  • Dún Laoghaire DART Station
  • Sandycove & Glasthule DART Station

Events:

  • Harbour Light Show – Evening light show illuminating the harbor.
  • Christmas Parade – A festive parade featuring local performers and floats.
  • Carriage Rides – Horse-drawn carriage rides along the waterfront.
  • Seasonal Music Sessions – Live traditional Irish music performances.
  • Family Craft Area – Kids can make holiday crafts to take home.

Famous Shops/Stalls:

  • Harbor Candies – Handmade seasonal candies and chocolates.
  • Mariner Knitwear – Cozy knit hats, scarves, and sweaters.
  • Handcrafted Pottery – Beautiful pottery pieces by local artisans.
  • Seaside Jewelry – Ocean-inspired jewelry designs.
  • Irish Woodworks – Unique wooden crafts and decor.

Special Spots:

  • Harbour Pier – Festively lit pier offering views of Dublin Bay.
  • Santa’s Boat – Santa arrives by boat, a unique photo opportunity.
  • Christmas Carousel – Classic carousel decorated for the season.
  • Lighthouse Path – Scenic walkway leading to the lighthouse with holiday lights.
  • Market Archway – A festive arch marking the entrance to the market.

Parking:

Dún Laoghaire Harbour Car Park, €3/hour

Nearby Hotels:

  • Royal Marine Hotel
  • Haddington House
  • Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel

Nearby Restaurants:

  • Oliveto – Italian-inspired cuisine with seasonal specials.
  • McLoughlin’s Bar – Traditional pub with holiday ambiance.
  • Hartley’s – Fine dining with a festive menu.

7. Blackrock Christmas Market

The Blackrock Christmas Market brings the magic of the season to Blackrock’s charming village atmosphere, offering a warm, community-centered holiday experience. Set along Main Street, this market captures the essence of a traditional Irish Christmas with its festive decorations, local vendors, and delightful holiday events. The market showcases a variety of handmade goods, from linen crafts to vintage decor, making it a perfect spot for finding unique, one-of-a-kind gifts. Visitors can participate in festive activities like carol singing, wreath-making workshops, and a community tree-lighting ceremony that brings everyone together to celebrate. The market also hosts an annual gingerbread house contest, which is a favorite with families and offers a chance for kids to express their holiday creativity. With local choirs filling the air with carols and a selection of seasonal foods, Blackrock Christmas Market creates a nostalgic holiday experience. Its small-town charm, combined with the festive spirit, makes it an ideal spot for locals and visitors alike to enjoy the holiday season in an intimate, welcoming setting.

Blackrock Christmas Market

Address: Main Street, Blackrock, Dublin, Ireland
Dates: December 2 – December 24, 2025
Opening Hours: Monday–Sunday 12:00 PM–7:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Free
Ticket Information: Free entry; additional info on Blackrock website

Nearest T Stations:

  • Blackrock DART Station
  • Booterstown DART Station

Events:

  • Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony – Join the community for the tree lighting event.
  • Gingerbread House Contest – Families can participate in creating gingerbread houses.
  • Carol Singing – Daily carol performances by local choirs.
  • Craft Workshop – Create holiday wreaths and ornaments.
  • Local Artisan Day – Special day highlighting Blackrock artisans.

Famous Shops/Stalls:

  • Blackrock Bakery – Fresh holiday breads and pastries.
  • Irish Linen Crafts – Handmade linen goods perfect for gifting.
  • Vintage Finds – Antique holiday decor and unique gift items.
  • Celtic Knits – Traditional Irish knitwear.
  • Holiday Wine Stand – Sample mulled wine and festive drinks.

Special Spots:

  • Village Square Fountain – Central fountain adorned with lights and holiday decor.
  • Community Christmas Tree – Beautifully lit tree in the main square.
  • Artisan Path – Stalls featuring local artists and handmade goods.
  • Historic Blackrock Church – Church lit up with festive lights.
  • Carolers’ Stage – Stage set up for holiday choir performances.

Parking:

Blackrock Village Centre Car Park, €2.50/hour

Nearby Hotels:

  • Radisson Blu St. Helen’s Hotel
  • Talbot Hotel Stillorgan
  • Clayton Hotel Ballsbridge

Nearby Restaurants:

  • Bear Market Café – Cozy café with seasonal treats and warm drinks.
  • Three Leaves – Indian cuisine with holiday specials.
  • Blackrock Cellar – Wine bar with holiday pairings.

8. Howth Christmas Market

Howth Christmas Market combines the beauty of Ireland’s coastal landscape with the festive cheer of the holiday season. Situated at Howth Harbour, this market offers breathtaking views of Dublin Bay, making it a unique destination for holiday shopping and family fun. Known for its emphasis on fresh seafood and local produce, Howth’s Christmas Market is perfect for food lovers who can sample seafood chowder, fish and chips, and other seaside delicacies. Events include a festive Christmas parade, where Santa arrives by boat, and traditional Irish dance performances that showcase local culture. Kids can enjoy Santa storytime sessions, while adults can browse stalls featuring Irish woolens, handcrafted jewelry, and seaside-inspired gifts. The market’s picturesque setting also includes romantic paths like the Mistletoe Bridge and a brightly lit lighthouse path, offering visitors plenty of scenic photo opportunities. With its charming blend of coastal beauty and holiday spirit, Howth Christmas Market is a must-visit for those looking to experience a festive Irish Christmas by the sea.

Howth Christmas Market

Address: Howth Harbour, Howth, Dublin, Ireland
Dates: December 1 – December 24, 2025
Opening Hours: Friday–Sunday 11:00 AM–8:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Free
Ticket Information: Free entry

Nearest T Stations:

  • Howth DART Station
  • Sutton DART Station

Events:

  • Harbour Christmas Parade – Local performers, floats, and Santa himself arrive by boat.
  • Seafood Tastings – Sample fresh seafood dishes from local vendors.
  • Traditional Irish Dancing – Dance performances to holiday music.
  • Children’s Storytime with Santa – Santa reads Christmas stories to children.
  • Artisan Market Day – Special event showcasing handmade crafts and gifts.

Famous Shops/Stalls:

  • Howth Fish Market – Fresh seafood perfect for holiday meals.
  • Irish Woolen Stand – Scarves, gloves, and blankets made from Irish wool.
  • Seaside Art – Local seascape paintings and prints.
  • The Gingerbread House – Freshly baked gingerbread and holiday cookies.
  • Celtic Trinkets – Small gifts with Irish designs.

Special Spots:

  • Howth Pier – Beautifully decorated with holiday lights and sea views.
  • Santa’s Boat – A unique arrival by boat, delighting children and families.
  • Harbour Lighthouse – Historic lighthouse illuminated for the season.
  • Mistletoe Bridge – Scenic spot with views over the bay.
  • Seaside Walk – Lighted path along the water with festive decorations.

Parking:

Howth Harbour Car Park, €3/hour

Nearby Hotels:

  • Marine Hotel Sutton
  • King Sitric Seafood Bar & Accommodation
  • Deer Park Hotel

Nearby Restaurants:

  • Aqua Restaurant – Seafood with a stunning view of the bay.
  • The Abbey Tavern – Traditional Irish pub with holiday specials.
  • Beshoffs – Popular spot for fish and chips with a holiday twist.

9. Merrion Square Christmas Market

Merrion Square Christmas Market brings a festive flair to one of Dublin’s most famous green spaces, turning Merrion Square Park into a holiday wonderland each December. Known for its focus on the arts, this market showcases a range of local artists, making it an excellent destination for those seeking unique, handcrafted gifts. Stalls are filled with beautiful paintings, artisan jewelry, and seasonal decor, ideal for gift-giving and holiday home decorating. Events include the Winter Lantern Parade, which lights up the park with illuminated displays, and live jazz nights that bring a sophisticated vibe to the holiday festivities. Kids can enjoy storytelling sessions, while adults can participate in crafting workshops led by Dublin artisans. The historic setting of Merrion Square, decorated with festive lights and holiday greenery, adds to the market’s enchanting atmosphere. For those who appreciate art, music, and the spirit of community, Merrion Square Christmas Market provides a cozy, culturally rich experience that captures the heart of Dublin’s holiday celebrations.

Merrion Square Christmas Market

Address: Merrion Square Park, Merrion St Upper, Dublin, Ireland
Dates: December 1 – December 22, 2025
Opening Hours: Friday–Sunday 12:00 PM–8:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Free
Ticket Information: Free entry; event details on Merrion Square Dublin

Nearest T Stations:

  • Pearse Station
  • St. Stephen’s Green Luas Station

Events:

  • Artist Market Days – Special weekends featuring works from Dublin’s local artists.
  • Winter Lantern Parade – Illuminated lantern parade through the park at dusk.
  • Storytelling for Kids – Christmas tales told by local storytellers.
  • Live Jazz Nights – Evening jazz performances adding a festive atmosphere.
  • Crafting Workshops – Create holiday crafts with Dublin’s artisans.

Famous Shops/Stalls:

  • Dublin Art Collective – Prints, paintings, and other artwork by local artists.
  • Irish Wool Works – Traditional wool scarves, gloves, and hats.
  • Seasonal Bakery – Fresh pastries, gingerbread, and traditional holiday sweets.
  • Vintage Christmas Ornaments – Unique, antique-inspired holiday decor.
  • Artisan Jewelry – Handmade, locally crafted jewelry pieces.

Special Spots:

  • Oscar Wilde Statue – Iconic statue adorned with holiday lights and decor.
  • Victorian Bandstand – Decorated for the holidays, a popular spot for photos.
  • Winter Flower Beds – Seasonal floral displays along the park pathways.
  • Lantern-Lit Paths – Walking paths lit with holiday lanterns at dusk.
  • Christmas Archway – Decorative arch marking the entrance to the market.

Parking:

Merrion Square East Car Park, €3/hour

Nearby Hotels:

  • The Merrion Hotel
  • The Mont
  • Buswells Hotel

Nearby Restaurants:

  • The Garden Room – Restaurant with holiday-inspired cuisine.
  • Hugo’s – Cozy dining with festive specials.
  • House Dublin – Perfect for a holiday cocktail with seasonal decor.

10. Clontarf Castle Christmas Market

The Clontarf Castle Christmas Market is a one-of-a-kind holiday event set within the historic Clontarf Castle, offering visitors a medieval-themed Christmas experience. Held on weekends throughout December, this market is known for its unique setting, where the castle’s architecture adds a magical backdrop to festive celebrations. Visitors can explore medieval-inspired performances, complete with traditional music, caroling, and even knight and maiden photo opportunities, creating an immersive experience. The market’s stalls feature a selection of gourmet treats, Irish crafts, and holiday decor, making it easy to find memorable gifts for loved ones. Events like Santa’s Castle Visit, wreath-making workshops, and gourmet tastings of artisanal cheese and wine add a special touch to the holiday festivities. Visitors can also stroll through the beautifully decorated castle gardens, which are illuminated with seasonal lights, creating a fairytale-like ambiance. Clontarf Castle Christmas Market is a must-visit for families, couples, and anyone looking to enjoy a magical Irish Christmas with a medieval twist.

Clontarf Castle Christmas Market

Address: Clontarf Castle, Castle Ave, Clontarf, Dublin, Ireland
Dates: December 5 – December 20, 2025 (Weekends only)
Opening Hours: Friday–Sunday 11:00 AM–7:00 PM
Entrance Fee: €5 for adults, free for children under 12
Ticket Information: Tickets available on the Clontarf Castle website

Nearest T Stations:

  • Clontarf Road DART Station
  • Harmonstown DART Station

Events:

  • Medieval Christmas Performances – Experience caroling, dances, and performances inspired by medieval times.
  • Knight and Maiden Photo Booth – Dress up in medieval attire for holiday photos.
  • Gourmet Tasting Sessions – Taste artisanal cheeses, wines, and seasonal treats.
  • Santa’s Castle Visit – Kids can visit Santa in a castle setting.
  • Winter Wreath-Making Workshop – Create your own wreath with guidance from local florists.

Famous Shops/Stalls:

  • Castle Chocolates – Gourmet chocolates with unique holiday flavors.
  • Irish Wools and Tweeds – High-quality wool products, perfect for gifts.
  • Artisan Mead Stand – Sample traditional mead, perfect for holiday toasts.
  • Handcrafted Woodwork – Locally made wooden decor and gift items.
  • Irish Pewter Gifts – Unique, Celtic-inspired gifts and decor.

Special Spots:

  • Castle Courtyard – Central area with festive lights and holiday music.
  • Historic Tower – Beautifully decorated, ideal for scenic photos.
  • Knight’s Hall – Indoor space with stalls and medieval decor.
  • Castle Gardens – Walk through gardens with festive decorations and lights.
  • Holiday Archway – Festively lit archway entrance to the castle grounds.

Parking:

Clontarf Castle Car Park, €5/day

Nearby Hotels:

  • Clontarf Castle Hotel
  • Marine Hotel Sutton
  • The Gibson Hotel

Nearby Restaurants:

  • The Knight’s Bar – Warm up with seasonal drinks and holiday specials.
  • Bay Restaurant – Irish cuisine with a modern twist and festive atmosphere.
  • Fishbone – Seafood restaurant with seasonal menu options.
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