What’s your favourite Christmas tradition?

We took to the streets of Dublin to find out exactly what people look forward to most during the festive season in the city.

From the annual traditions like sipping pints of Guinness in festive Dublin pubs decked out in Christmas decor, to new traditions like checking out some of our 14 locations for this year’s Winter Lights festival, the city comes alive this time of year.

With a buzzing atmosphere, twinkling lights, incredible restaurants and cafés and all of your shopping needs catered for, walking around the city is sure to put you in the festive spirit.

If you’d like to learn more about some of the amazing Christmas events happening around the city this December, head over to our What’s On section.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE...

Alternative Christmas Shopping in Dublin: We Make Good.

Alternative Christmas Shopping in Dublin

On the hunt for a Christmas gift with a difference? Dublin has a wealth of markets and independent traders, making it the ideal shopping hub for alternative gifts this Christmas. There are a plethora of options so even if you’re buying for the most difficult people you’re sure to find something unique and thoughtful. We spoke to three small, independent and sustainable Irish businesses that you will find in the city centre this Christmas. Sheelin, owner of The Kind Co., has teamed up with eco-friendly kids’ store Jiminy.ie to create 

blue sky and sea at forty foot

live

The Forty Foot

It’s an addiction. It’s life threatening. It’s awesome. Huddling together in the bitter cold, on Friday the 13th, under a weak and feeble January sun, they all argue that there’s nothing better. Sure, there’s dramatic stories of nearly dying, but the group is adamant that the buzz is worth it. Great, they say, for the mental health. “It’s the perfect anti-depressant,” photographer Barry Delaney says. Listening to these Dublin swimmers, you hear the language of addiction, love and even religion. The perpetual appeal of Dublin’s Forty Foot Welcome to Sandycove’s famous Forty Foot and its crew of year-round swimmers.

live

Vintage at The Harlequin

Dublin’s vintage scene is thriving. With more vintage stores opening in the city centre, the competition is hotting-up, but so is the demand. So, why the sudden increase in vintage fashion? The inclusion of vintage inspirations by current fashion designers and the media has driven a change in people’s attitudes towards wearing second-hand clothes. You could say the recession has had an impact too. People are more resourceful because of it. They’re more likely to buy second hand now and generally the clothes are longer lasting than high street fashion. There’s also the fact that, thanks to a recent surge in bohemian and hipster trends, Dubliners are striving for mor

What's On

What's on

Dundrum On Ice

Dundrum Town Centre

Dundrum On Ice - Dublin's best ice skating venue in Dundrum Town Centre returns for 2023. One of Dublin's largest Ice Rinks returns for both beginners and ice skating aficiondado's. Dundrum on Ice offers our experienced team of Ice Marshals, Food and Beverages, incredible music and atmosphere. Bring in the festive cheer with Ireland's favourite Ice Skating experience.

What's on

The Christmas Experience at Malahide Castle

Malahide Castle

Get ready to embark on a magical journey through time and tradition - introducing ‘The Christmas Experience’ at Malahide Castle. Immerse yourself in the warmth and charm of the season as you journey through the historic castle, with its timeless beauty and traditional decorations. Each family will meet an array of beloved characters, witness Mrs. Claus and the elves as they prepare for the most wonderful time of the year and of course enjoy a heartwarming encounter with the main man himself, Santa Claus. There will be a special gift for all the boys and girls, and tasty treats for

What's on

The Moving Crib

St Martin Apostolate

This year The Moving Crib will be opening it’s doors for it’s 67th year! The Moving Crib has been a key feature of Christmas in Dublin for so long that parents and grandparents, who visited The Moving Crib as children, are now bringing their children and grandchildren to enjoy and re-live this amazing Christmas experience! The Moving Crib, the mention of which evokes a smile and fond memories of Dublin in the ‘rare auld times’ is the only one of its kind in Ireland (if not the world); it is an historical and entertaining experience. This Dublin landmark is as captivating today as