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

Fairytale of New York

Gaiety Theatre

Direct from the West End and after two sell-out tours of Europe, the ultimate feel good Irish-inspired Christmas show is back in Dublin with an even bigger production for 2024. From the producers of Seven Drunken Nights-The Story of The Dubliners and featuring an international cast of singers, musicians and dancers Fairytale of New York brings you all of your favorite Christmas songs including Driving home for Christmas, White Christmas, Oh Holy Night, Winter’s Tale, Silent Night and of course The Fairytale of New York. ……and just when you think the party couldn’t get any better,

What's on

Rapunzel – The Helix Panto 2024

The Helix

The Helix Panto 2024 will be the hair-larious tale “RAPUNZEL” running from the 22nd November 2024 until 12th January 2025! Produced as always by TheatreworX Productions, "Rapunzel," promises to bring you everything that you can expect from the most magical Panto in Dublin! Join Lola, Buddy, Laurel along with a host of new colourful characters as they untangle a fresh new adventure filled with non-stop laughs and exciting twists and turns, guaranteed to keep the entire family on the edge of their seats!

What's on

Elf Town Dublin

RDS

‘Elf Town Dublin is a magical 75-minute Christmas experience for all of the family to enjoy! Meet the band of the wondrous Elves and explore the exciting world of Elf Town! Including Santa’s two real reindeer Comet and Cupid! During each visit, every family will have a private visit with Santa himself – the children will be amazed when he knows a little secret about each child! This year, you have the option to receive an Elf Town branded gift pack that includes our unique Golden Tickets, a personalised invitation to Elf Town from Santa, a map of the Elf Town journey and a personalised p