Christmas Markets in Ireland 2019

Published on 3 December 2019

The Christmas Market craze has swept the country in recent years and we now get into the festive spirit by strolling by wooden chalets, eating crepesm and drinking hot chocolate. It’s like après ski but without the sore muscles.

here, we’ve put together a list of the best Christmas markets in Ireland to help you and yours make magical memories and new traditions this festive season.

 

Upcoming Christmas Markets

 

Winterval, Waterford

Winterval, Ireland’s largest Christmas Festival, returns for its eight year to delight children and adults alike.

When: Friday, Saturdays, and Sunday from November 23rd and then every day between December 18th and 23rd.

What: Winterval, Ireland’s largest Christmas Festival, returns for its eight year to delight children and adults alike. This year’s festival promises over 60 ticketed and free events, including Santa’s Grotto, the Toy Museum, Waterford on Ice, the Winterval Express Train, Exploration Dome, Christmas Carousel, light shows, an interactive sleigh, the ‘Waterford Eye’, Wizards & Dragons and much more.

Book early to avoid disappointment: http://winterval.ie/events

 

Galway Christmas Market

This popular Christmas Festival welcomed over 650,000 visitors last year and is sure to deliver the magic again this year.

When: November 15th to December 22nd.

What: The Galway Christmas Market boasts a fine selection of food, drinks, and gift ideas from local and European traders. Located in Eyre Square and featuring over 50 stalls, attractions include carol-singing, amusements for kids, a 32m high Ferris Wheel, puppet shows, Après Ski Bar, Santa’s Express Train, live music performers, storytelling and school choirs. To complete the experience, a stroll in the enchanted light gardens, is sure to put everyone in a festive mood.

Book: https://www.galwaytourism.ie/event/galway-christmas-market/

 

Glow, Cork City

The Grand Parade will be home to a 30m ferris wheel, artisan food markets, carol singers and a vintage carousel offering festive delights.

When: November 29th to December 22nd (Friday to Sunday).

What: Children are sure to be highly entertained by the theatrical National Elf Test, the Elf Puppet Choir, and other family-friendly shows in Bishop Lucey Park. The Grand Parade will be home to a 30m ferris wheel, artisan food markets, carol singers and a vintage carousel offering festive delights to passers-by.

Check opening times and book here: http://corkchristmascelebration.ie/

 

The Wicklow Christmas Market

Located just 25 minutes from the M50, there;s something for everyone at the Wicklow Christmas Market.

When: November 23rd, 24th, and 30th. 

December 1st, 7th, 8th, 14th and 15th.

What: This festive market is housed at the Abbey Grounds in Wicklow town. It offers delicious artisan foods, a craft market, an Alpaca experience, fire shows, a funfair, gingerbread decorating workshops, a ski lodge bar, the Santa Express, handmade decorations and gifts. Located just 25 minutes from the M50, there is something for everyone, including live entertainment and puppet shows.

Book: https://www.wicklowchristmasmarket.com/

 

Belfast Christmas Market

Beautiful wooden chalets offering handmade goods from local and European traders.

When: November 16th to December 22nd.

What: Belfast City Hall grounds is the venue for this Christmas market and attendees can sample delicious treats such as French crêpes, Belgian chocolates, Schwenkegrill bratwursts, Dutch pancakes, Exotic burgers and Glühwein. Perfect for last minute Christmas shopping!

Book: https://visitbelfast.com/event/belfast-christmas-market-2019/

 

Dublin Christmas Markets

The Dublin Flea Christmas Market is sadly not going ahead for Christmas 2019, but the Capital has other markets that will surely satisfy your festive appetite. Here are a few:

 

The Swords Christmas Market in Swords Castle

When: November 24th to December 22nd on Sundays from 12 p.m.

 

The Dun Laoghaire Christmas Market

When: November 18th to December 23rd on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 12.30 p.m.

 

The Ha’Penny Christmas Market

When: From November 26th on Saturdays from 12 p.m.

 

Remember to bring cash to these in case some stalls don’t have a portable credit card machine. If you have little ones, a stroller might be handy in case they get tired or find the crowds overwhelming. Some of the more popular foods stalls may have queues, so be prepared to be in line for awhile or bring snacks for hungry children. Finally, don’t forget to look around and enjoy every minute – it's the most wonderful time of the year!

 

Car Insurance with Liberty

 

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