Twinkling lights? Stalls full of unique crafts? The smell of freshly made food wafting through the air? There’s no need to travel abroad this year if you’re longing for a magical Christmas market experience. From traditional style markets with Alpine stalls and handmade goods to markets championing local traders and food producers as well as eco-focused experiences, there’s a range of Christmas markets to choose from in Dublin 2024. So, gather family and friends and plan a festive day out in the capital. A visit to any (or all) of these spectacular Christmas markets is sure to put you in the festive mood.
The Dublin Castle Christmas Market is a Bavarian style Christmas market held annually in the grounds of Dublin Castle in recent years. This year is no exception and the market will be returning to deliver a welcome dose of festive cheer to the city. Expect a courtyard full of alpine stalls selling handmade trinkets along with a tempting selection of sweet and savoury treats. As you admire the beauty of Dublin Castle don’t forget visitors to the Christmas market can visit the impressive State Apartments for free (and they’ll be wonderfully decorated too). There’s also normally a number of live choral performances that are sure to sprinkle more festive magic over proceedings. Entrance to the Dublin Castle Christmas Market is free and the market will run from Thursday, November 28th – Wednesday, December 18th in the castle grounds from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. daily.
With an emphasis on supporting local, this Christmas will see the Fumbally Stables taken over for three days of fun and festivity by independent creatives, food producers, artists and craftspeople showcasing their wares. As well as the chance to peruse and pick up some truly unique pieces for family and friends, this Christmas market will have plenty of wine and mince pies along with food made from the kitchen fresh on site. Take part in the annual raffle that raises money for a local charity or dip into the Fumbally Cafe which will also be open. The 2024 Fumbally Christmas Market will take place on the 6th, 7th & 8th December.
After a prolonged absence, the Smithfield Christmas Market is set to make a grand return in 2024. Running from November 22nd to January 2nd, the market promises a festive experience brimming with charm. Visitors can explore traditional Christmas market stalls, marvel at Ireland’s first Ice Museum, glide across the ice rink, and take in stunning views of Dublin from the big wheel. For a cosy retreat, the ‘Nutcracker Snug,’ reminiscent of an Alpine Lodge, offers a perfect spot to unwind before diving back into the vibrant market atmosphere. The Smithfield Christmas Market will be open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Taking place indoors and outdoors in the historic glass houses at the Botanic Gardens in Glasnevin, this is a Christmas market with a difference. This carefully curated sustainable Christmas market will take place for just two days on Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th December. Last year’s edition saw enchanting performances from a local choir spreading Christmas cheer and over 70 stalls selling sustainable Christmas gifts and treats against the beautiful backdrop of the glasshouses. Admission is free and the market will run from 10 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. on both days.