Are you planning a city break for the festive season? If so, take a trip to Ireland’s capital, Dublin.
There’s something truly magical about Dublin in December. From the fairy lights reflected in the cobble to the warm and inviting pubs, there’s a lot to love about the city.
Winter illuminations
Dublin is a 2025 IFEA World Festival & Event City and so this year’s Winter Lights Festivalis likely to be a special one. This citywide celebration turns familiar landmarks into works of art. Instead of simple fairy lights, wonderfully creative light projections that dance across locations like Custom House, Trinity College, and the Samuel Beckett Bridge. These transform the city centre into a glowing, open-air gallery.
Grafton Street shines brightest of all. Its canopy of glittering lights draws crowds who come not just to shop but to experience the festivities. If you’re lucky enough to be there on Christmas Eve, you might catch Dublin’s famous buskers performing carols and acoustic sets for charity.
For an even more enchanting experience, there’s Wild Lights at Dublin Zoo. This immersive event transforms the zoo. Walking through its glowing pathways feels like stepping into another world and this year, you can enjoy The Wild Kaleidoscope theme up close.
Christmas markets
Dublin’s festive markets combine history and craftsmanship, with artisan goods for sale throughout the season. Christmas at the Castle takes place in the courtyard of Dublin Castle – a setting steeped in grandeur. Here, you can wander between stalls offering handmade crafts, locally produced gifts, and seasonal delicacies.
If you’re searching for sustainable or eco-friendly presents, visit the Botanic Gardens Eco Christmas Craft Market, where local artisans showcase gifts made with natural materials and thoughtful designs. Or head to the Guinness Storehouse, which hosts its own festive celebration complete with winter brews, Christmas installations, and live performances.
Each market reflects different sides of the city, from its creative energy to its deep-rooted traditions. After a busy day at the markets, and seeing the sights, be sure to cosy down and retire to your aparthotel in Dublin to recuperate an evening of fun.
Cosy pubs and festive cheer
Step inside Dublin’s pubs and you’ll find open fires, twinkling lights, and the kind of easy conversation that makes strangers feel like old friends. Temple Bar is famous for its lively atmosphere, but quieter neighbourhood pubs like The Long Hall or The Brazen Head – Dublin’s oldest – offer just as much warmth with fewer crowds.
Beyond the barstool, Dublin’s holiday traditions invite you to celebrate like a local. You could take in a classic pantomime or attend a Christmas carol concert at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, where the music echoes off centuries-old stone.
Whether you take in the festive glow that shimmers in the waters of the Liffey or make your way to Temple Bar for a festive evening with friends, Dublin is the perfect place for a wintry weekend away.
