There’s something for everyone in Dublin this Christmas

Christmas in Dublin is a magical experience, where the charm of Ireland’s capital is amplified by festive lights, rich cultural traditions, and a welcoming atmosphere that embodies the true spirit of Christmas. From the cobbled streets of Temple Bar to the elegant Georgian squares, Dublin transforms into a winter wonderland, offering a unique mix of modern celebrations and old-world charm.

From markets to theatre, visits to Santa, carol singing, Winter Lights walking trails, Ice-Skating and more…there’s something for everyone in Dublin this Christmas.

Event Highlights

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Wild Lights at Dublin Zoo

Dublin Zoo

Wild Lights returns to Dublin Zoo with its most dazzling theme yet. Step into The Wild Kaleidoscope at Dublin Zoo this winter to explore 13 kaleidoscopic zones bursting with vibrant colour. Join us in celebrating the power of colour in the wild – survival, communication, attraction, and defence. Admire elegant flamingos and shimmering peacocks and spot the playful penguins and enchanting red pandas. Marvel at radiant lanterns, including the largest EVER lantern featured at Wild Lights (and one of the biggest in Europe). Whether it’s your first time or a family tradition, experience a

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Elf Town Dublin

RDS

Forget pop-up grottos and tinsel-draped sheds, Elf Town is Ireland’s only Christmas experience built with the ambition, scale, and incredible level of detail to match any world-class Christmas production. Every set within the enormous Dublin and Galway locations is hand-crafted, every character fully realised, and every child’s journey designed to feel truly magical from start to finish. With over €3.7 million invested this year, the most to date, Elf Town 2025 is set to be the best yet. Following a sell-out season in 2024 that welcomed more than 113,000 visitors, Elf Town returns in

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TwinkleTown

Smithfield Square

Introducing TwinkleTown, Dublin’s sparkling new Christmas experience Opening 1pm - November 28th, Smithfield Square, Dublin Tickets on sale NOW at twinkletown.ie *Early Bird Tickets for Ice Rink are available now for a limited period* TwinkleTown in partnership with Dublin City Council is lighting up Dublin this Christmas, transforming Smithfield Square into a magical, festive wonderland for all ages to enjoy. A one stop Christmas experience and a brand new tradition in the making, blending entertainment, culture, and festive magic for all to enjoy. The fantastic Santo Panto and the Ma

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Wonderlights - Malahide Castle & Gardens

Malahide Castle

Following on from the huge successes of previous years, we return to our North Dublin location of Malahide Castle & Gardens for our 5th year. This year’s theme is “Once Upon a Glow” Once Upon a Glow will bring a mesmerising display of over one million lights to the historic estate of Malahide Castle & Gardens. This year’s theme will be brought to life with the return of fan favourites, including the Portal of Light Tunnel, standing 5 meters high and 10 meters wide, the stunning Symphony of Light pond show, and the immersive projection mapping onto the castle itself. Th

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Christmas by Candlelight

St Patrick's Cathedral

The ultimate Christmas concert is here! Join a spectacular cast of West End singers and incredible live band, as they perform your favourite Christmas Hits, as you have never heard them before! It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas, just in time for a magical evening of best loved festive music, performed live at the beautiful St Patrick's Cathedral, by candlelight. Featuring sing-along classics White Christmas, Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!, Santa Baby, O Holy Night, Winter Wonderland and many more, this uplifting concert is the perfect way to celebrate a Holly Jolly Ch

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Dublin City Council Dublin Winter Lights

Dublin

Follow the Magic in Dublin City Centre and see it like you’ve never seen it before. With 25 city centre locations, spectacular lights and interactive activities, it’s an experience for everyone to enjoy. Iconic Dublin buildings, bridges and landmarks will be epically transformed with incredible light installations and projections designed by world-class national and international artists. Experience dazzling displays at Merrion Square Park and the GPO, and enjoy fantastic new light experiences at Dublin Castle, Wolfe Tone Square, along the River Liffey and Meeting House Square. The L

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Dublin Loves Christmas

RDS

Experience the magic of the season at the Royal Dublin Society with Dublin Loves Christmas Dublin Loves Christmas at the RDS is FREE to enter, just show up and soak up the festive vibes. There’s no need for an entry ticket, so bring your friends, family, and holiday spirit. Wander freely through our magical Christmas markets, browse unique gifts, and enjoy the sights, sounds, and scents of the season. Explore delicious food and drink stalls and immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere. Looking for a little extra fun? There’s a select section of attractions, thrill rides, and fam

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The Convention Before Christmas

National Show Centre

Step into a Magical Christmas Village Where Holiday Dreams Come to Life! This December, The Convention Before Christmas brings together the wonder of a traditional Christmas market and the thrill of Ireland’s biggest pop culture celebration all under one roof. Expect: Beloved movie cars and iconic set pieces for photo ops Celebrity guests & actors from hit shows and films (including Wednesday and Star Wars) Cosplay competitions and dazzling fan showcases Raffles, giveaways, and Christmas shopping with artisan gifts & fandom collectibles Santa’s Grotto, live elf

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Santa's Grotto at EPIC

EPIC

This November and December, Santa and his elves are back at EPIC, ready to welcome families for the most magical Christmas yet. While Santa’s reindeer are busy training for their Christmas Eve flight, you’ll meet Santa on board his magical plane – Reindeer Airways, hidden deep within the museum vaults. Dates: 22nd, 23rd, 29th, 30th November 2025 6th, 7th & 22nd December 2025 Your Christmas adventure begins as you arrive at EPIC, where each child receives their very own festive passport and boarding pass for Reindeer Airways. You’ll journey through the museum before arriving at

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The Christmas Circus of Wonders & Curiosities

Lucan House

This Christmas, the historic grounds of Lucan House will be transformed into a world of festive magic as Broken Theatre presents The Christmas Circus of Wonders & Curiosities. Running from Friday 21 November 2025 to Sunday 4 January 2026, this thrilling, family‑friendly production blends breathtaking circus artistry with the spirit of the season. Taking inspiration from Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, the show follows the transformative adventure of Mr. Scrooge as he rediscovers the joy of Christmas through the wonder of the circus. Expect a spectacular mix of aerial acts high i

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A Dublin Gospel Christmas

Draiocht

Christmas with Dublin Gospel Choir has become a holiday tradition for so many people in Ireland. This special performance blends Christmas classics, gospel music and soulful arrangements by their Musical Director Orla Gargan, creating a joyful and heartwarming atmosphere that celebrates the holiday season. Their Christmas shows always feature gospel renditions of traditional carols, as well as popular holiday songs with a gorgeous Dublin Gospel Choir twist, all delivered with the choir’s signature rich harmonies and energy. Their seasonal events are known for drawing both families and friend

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The Moving Crib

St Martin Apostolate

From 27 November 2025 to 4 January 2026, visitors of all ages can enjoy a festive journey through beautifully detailed moving displays that bring the story of Christmas to life. Step inside to watch the Nativity unfold, follow the journey of the Wise Men, and discover a series of captivating scenes that celebrate the wonder, joy, and true meaning of the season. Now in its 69th year, The Moving Crib remains one of Dublin’s most treasured Christmas traditions, enchanting children, adults, and generations of visitors alike since it first opened its doors in 1956. Adding to the festive atm

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This Way To Christmas! Featuring The Snowman

National Concert Hall

Festive favourite This Way to Christmas! Featuring The Snowman returns to the National Concert Hall this December with the NCH Christmas Orchestra and conductor Fergus Sheil. Host Louis Lovett oversees this ever-popular seasonal show with its parading nutcrackers, classic Christmas songs and festive dance. As always, the heart-warming spectacle is followed by a screening of timeless family classic The Snowman with Howard Blake’s score performed live by our Christmas Orchestra. Plus… ho ho ho…. special guests and lots of festive giggles for all the family. Sign Language int

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Christmas at Christ Church Cathedral

Christ Church Cathedral

Join us for a memorable occasion with our renowned Cathedral choir performing an array of festive pieces in the beautiful surroundings of Christ Church Cathedral. Tickets for these one-hour performances are highly sought after as there is no better way to get in the mood for Christmas. The concerts will take place on Tuesday 9th December at 8.30pm and on Wednesday 10th and Thursday 11th December at 6pm and 8.30pm. Book now to avoid disappointment!

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Dublin Loves Christmas

RDS

Experience the magic of the season at the Royal Dublin Society with Dublin Loves Christmas Dublin Loves Christmas at the RDS is FREE to enter, just show up and soak up the festive vibes. There’s no need for an entry ticket, so bring your friends, family, and holiday spirit. Wander freely through our magical Christmas markets, browse unique gifts, and enjoy the sights, sounds, and scents of the season. Explore delicious food and drink stalls and immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere. Looking for a little extra fun? There’s a select section of attractions, thrill rides, and fam

Pantos

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The Snow Queen

The Helix

Join The Helix this festive season for a sparkling winter adventure like no other. Produced by the sensational TheatreworX Productions, this year’s panto promises a flurry of festive fun, magical mayhem, and all the glittering joy you’ve come to expect from Dublin’s favourite family tradition. Step into a world of snow-kissed magic as Lola, Buddy, Laurel, and a blizzard of new characters set off on a whirlwind journey to Merryville and beyond. Packed with laughter, surprises, and heart-warming moments, THE SNOW QUEEN is the perfect festive treat for all ages. ​ Whether you're a li

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A Christmas Carol

Gate Theatre

For Christmas 2025, the Gate will present a new production of family favourite A CHRISTMAS CAROL by Neil Bartlett, based on Charles Dickens’s beloved classic. The production will be directed by Claire O’Reilly. Over the course of a misty Christmas night, miserly Ebenezer Scrooge is visited by three haunting visions, the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future, that urge them to change their skinflint, lonely ways and embrace the magic and possibility of the festive spirit before it’s too late. Featuring Dickens’s beloved characters, this will be an unmissable family festive tre

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Beauty and the Beast

Gaiety Theatre

A tale as old as time, featuring a host of well-loved characters and lovable crockery! Beauty and the Beast tells the story of Belle and the dreaded Beast in his lonely castle. Belle is beautiful, the Beast is – ahem – beastly, and Gaston is still totally in love, with himself! A story of friendship and love, mixing magic and adventure with spectacular song and dance routines and special effects to entertain all the family! *Family Ticket: €55 | Running time: 1 hour | Suitable for ages 4+

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The Liberty Panto - Jack and The Beanstalk

O'Reilly Theatre

Jake Carter returns to Liberty Panto this Christmas so hold onto your magic beans and get ready for a GIANT-GANTIC Pantomime Adventure from the Liberty Panto! The Liberty Panto gang are back this Christmas with a beanstalk-climbing, sky-high adventure packed with belly laughs, toe-tapping tunes, and more moo-sical mischief than ever before! Join the outrageous Dame Nellie Nu Nu, the loveable Silly Simon, heroic Jack Trott (Jake), Princess Jill, and of course the legendary Pat the Cow (udderly fabulous) as they take on the villainous Fleshcreep and the terrifying Giant Blunderbore. With the

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Cinderella

The National Stadium

Cinderella is coming to the Stadium Panto – oh YES she is! Sammy & Buffy are back and your favourite panto will be Bigger, Funnier & more Magical than ever! This Christmas, Cinderella is losing her slipper (and her patience), while Sammy & Buffy cause all kinds of magical mayhem at the Stadium Panto! Expect belly laughs, booing, singing, sparkles, and a whole lotta “OH YES WE DID!” Get booking now for the best seats and the best craic – before they’re all gone!

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Hansel and Gretel

dlr Mill Theatre

A Magical Christmas Adventure… When clever Gretel and her caring brother Hansel are left deep in the forest by their not-so-nice new stepmother, things start to get a little spooky . . . and a little sweet. Lost and alone, they come across the most gorgeous gingerbread house, decorated with the tastiest of treats. But, they’ll need their wits – and a sprinkle of bravery – to outsmart a wicked old witch looking for a sweet tooth and her sidekick Squawker, the cowardly crow. Luckily, they meet the cheeky and lovable Fizzle Mc Fluffy, a magical forest critter with a few tricks up i

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Olly Goes To Oz - A Wicked Panto

3Olympia

A Spellbinding Panto where the WIZARD OF OZ meets WICKED in a hilarious adventure! Following last year’s smash hit Freezin! , Olly Goes To Oz is a laugh a minute twister of a tale! This Christmas follow Olly, Polly & Dolly down The Yellow Brick Road on an unforgettable panto journey through Oz! Don’t miss the funniest panto in Ireland where WICKED and THE WIZARD OF OZ will collide in a whirlwind of fun, belly laughs and panto madness in typical 3Olympia style! The most popular panto in town will defy gravity as we go somewhere over the rainbow! We are not in Kansas anymore Toto

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Tickles, Beauty & The Beast

Civic Theatre

A Tale as Old as Time Step into a world of enchantment and adventure as Belle, longing for something more, is whisked away to a mysterious castle. But this isn’t just any castle—it’s alive with wonder, laughter, and a touch of chaos, thanks to the Civic Panto’s beloved comedy duo, Tickles & Dottie! Will Belle look beyond the fearsome Beast’s gruff exterior and discover the kindness within? Or will his stubborn ways doom him to a life of loneliness, losing not only his castle but the one girl who just might change his fate forever? Join us for a spellbinding tale filled with

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Chitty Chitty Bang Bang

National Concert Hall

CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG flies into the National Concert Hall this Christmas! Festival Productions presents this new Irish production of the Phantasmagorical stage musical of the movie adored by generations. Featuring an incredible cast of Irish talent – and a spectacular flying car! A truly scrumptious theatrical treat with sensational sets and costumes, the acclaimed Festival Chorus, Dancers and Orchestra. Based on Ian Fleming’s timeless story for children, the musical follows the adventures of Charactacus Potts, his beloved Truly and his children Jeremy & Jemima in their magical f

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Cinderella The Panto

Draíocht

Step into a world of magic, laughter and spectacle as Coolmine Panto Group brings the timeless fairytale of Cinderella to life on stage. Cinderella is kind, gentle, and full of dreams, but her days are far from easy. Living with her wicked Stepmother and her two hilariously funny and frightfully Ugly Stepsisters, Cinderella spends her time scrubbing and sweeping while they scheme to steal the spotlight. However, Cinderella is not alone – her loyal friend Buttons is always nearby with a joke, a song, and a smile, while the larger-than-life Dame keeps spirits high with her antics. At the

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Sleeping Beauty Christmas Panto

Axis Ballymun

Holding Court Theatre returns for another fabulous panto season and for the first time ever, they're kicking off in December! This year, they bring the magical tale of Sleeping Beauty to life, where a wicked curse, a sleepy princess, and a bumbling prince are no match for the fabulous Dame Stuffy. Expect laughter, magic, and mayhem in this glittering family adventure! Times: • Thurs & Fri Shows 19:30 • Sat Shows: 14:00 & 18:00 • Sun Shows: 14:00

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The Lark Christmas Panto - Jack & The Beanstalk

The Lark Concert Hall

Join Jack, Jill, Glammy and everyone’s best pal Dan de Man, as they try to save their beloved cow from the clutches of the Evil Trumpingtons! With castles in the sky, beanstalks that grow by magic and a host of the best songs and dances there ever was, this year’s Lark Panto is set to be the most Giant thing in North County Dublin this Christmas! STARRING: • George McMahon (Fair City’s Mondo) as Dan the Man • Ruairí Nicholl as Jack • Grace Nolan as Jill • Jenny McGrath as Baroness • Katie Taylor as Moo the Cow • Terence Christle as Glammy • Also featuring Emma

Ice-Skating

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Dundrum On Ice

Dundrum Town Centre

Dundrum on Ice was and remains the first Blue Martini Group Ice Rink. Opened in 2013 in the infamous town centre of Dundrum, it sets a standard that is carried throughout all of our rinks to ensure an unforgettable experience. Now in its thirteenth consecutive year, Dundrum on Ice offers a magical experience for all ages. Whether you're looking for the perfect family outing, date night or just a fun night out with friends Dundrum on Ice is the next stop on your list!

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Ice Skating Blanchardstown

Blanchardstown Centre

Ice Skating Blanchardstown returns in 2025 to Millenium Park, with access to the park behind the McDonalds Drive-Thru. We can’t wait to welcome the same fantastic skaters who join us year after year with a completely new theming and world-class decoration!

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South Dublin on Ice

The Square Tallaght

South Dublin On Ice 2025, your real ice skating facility located in the heart of South Dublin, in collaboration with The Square Tallaght and SDCC. This November, experience the magic of South Dublin On Ice at The Square, Tallaght, proudly supported by South Dublin County Council. Brought to you by the team behind Sligo On Ice and Malahide On Ice, this real ice rink offers a welcoming, family-friendly environment for all ages and skill levels. Whether you're learning to skate, enjoying a fun session, or booking a party package, our professional staff and rink marshals ensure a safe and me

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Swords on Ice

Pavilions Shopping Centre

Step into the festive magic at Swords On Ice ! Our rink at the Pavilions Shopping Centre is the perfect place to celebrate the season, whether you're a first-time skater or gliding like a pro. With twinkling lights, cosy vibes, and plenty of space for family and friends, it's a winter experience everyone will love. This Christmas, enjoy the magic of Swords On Ice at Pavilions Shopping Centre. Located in the heart of North Dublin, our rink offers festive fun for all ages, from family days out to seasonal date nights. Skate across the ice, soak up the Christmas atmosphere, and then expl

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Alpine Skate Trail Dún Laoghaire

Harbour Road

Dublin’s first ice skating trail, Alpine Skate Trail, comes to Dún Laoghaire in 2025! An ice skating trail and a separate practice ice rink! It will be located at the harbour in Dún Laoghaire and can be easily accessed by the DART.

Christmas Markets and Craft Fairs

Gifted - The Contemporary Craft & Design Fair: Craft, design, independent brands & artisan food @ the RDS, Dublin. December 4th-8th, 2019.

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Gifted - The Contemporary Craft & Design Fair

RDS

Gifted is the country’s largest celebration of craft, design, and artisan food, showcasing over 400 talented makers and producers. With thousands of original gift ideas, it’s the ultimate destination for anyone seeking handmade, heartfelt presents this festive season. If you are looking for thousands of unique gift ideas for your loved one then come along to Gifted and you’ll get all of your Christmas shopping done in one day, under one roof!

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Richmond Barracks Christmas Fair

Richmond Barracks

Enjoy a weekend filled with creativity, community and connection at our 2025 Christmas Fair. The Richmond Barracks Christmas Fair will celebrate the winter season with lots of unique gifts, seasonal crafts and products to buy. People can also try something new at our various family friendly workshops for all ages and enjoy festive music, hot drinks and treats. Come together to meet artists, makers, producers and small businesses as we celebrate the season. The fair is family-friendly, with entertainment and creative activities for all ages. There will be workshops, stalls, entertainm

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Henry St/Mary St Christmas Market

Henry Street/Mary Street

Dublin City Council is thrilled to announce the return of the beloved Henry Street/Mary Street Christmas Markets! This market celebrates the 76 years of spreading festive cheer throughout the heart of Dublin. Dublin City Council has given the market a fresh, vibrant update with exciting features. The markets have been a holiday tradition since 1949, and its charm continues to bring joy to locals and visitors alike. The Market will be selling a wide variety of festive and gift items, including balloons, greeting cards, cribs, Christmas decorations such as holly and ivy wreaths and arti

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The Bolands Mills Bizarre Bazaar

Bolands Mills

Step inside a playful winter wonderland, where vintage charm meets quirky imagination. Bolands Mills will transform into The Bizarre Bazaar, a festive market where old-world charm collides with offbeat spectacle. This November 29th and 30th, visitors are invited to experience a weekend of handmade treasures, joyful entertainment, and curious imagination — all wrapped in the sparkle of seasonal magic. A quirky, creative, and unexpected take on the traditional winter market, The Bolands Mills Bizarre Bazaar blends art, performance, and atmosphere into an immersive festive experience. With o

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The Fumbally Christmas Market

The Fumbally

Every December The Fumbally give over the full building to a three day market of independent creatives, food producers, artists and traders of all sorts. Emphasis is on small, independent businesses and a community vibe that is 100% about supporting local at Christmas without even needing to say it (although we just did. Ha!) All indoors and over two floors, there is food from the kitchen, mulled wine and mince pies (of course) an annual raffle that raises money for a local charity and the fumbally café always open alongside.

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National Botanic Gardens Sustainable Christmas Craft Market

National Botanic Gardens

National Botanic Gardens are pleased to announce their carefully curated sustainable Christmas Market which will be held on Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th December, 10.00am to 4.00pm daily. Over 50 stallholders will be participating both indoors and outdoors. Don’t miss this wonderfully festive event! To reduce their carbon footprint and to promote local craft workers all stall holders have passed the stringent application process and must have ethically and sustainably produced crafts and products preferably hand made in Ireland. There will also be choirs, Christmas plant walks and lot

Wild Lights - Dublin Zoo 2025

The Wild Kaleidoscope