The lead up to Christmas can be frantic. So, it’s important to take a breath, lift your head and experience the festive delights of Dublin this Christmas. With Angelic choirs, delicious food, and engaging exhibitions, you’re sure to find something to suit your tastes. So, call up friends for a catch-up or gather the family around, and let yourself be spoilt for choice for ways this to soak up all the city has to offer this Christmas.
The Guinness Storehouse experience in Dublin is embracing the Christmas spirit in style for 2023 and invites you to experience its interactive experience for yourself. Feast your eyes on the 8.5-meter-tall Christmas tree at the entrance and step through the tunnel beneath to find yourself in the home of Guinness transformed into a Christmas wonderland. Along with live entertainment every day in Arthur’s Bar, you’ll be welcomed by eye-catching installations and a state-of-the-art cinematic experience curated by Nigerian Irish multi-disciplinary artist Farouk Alao. This exhibit allows visitors to explore the Guinness archives and capture and share unforgettable moments of festive celebration with friends and family during their tour. Of course, it’s not a Christmas celebration without a festive feast and there’s a seasonal menu sure to satisfy your cravings. Indulge in delicious festive food featuring ingredients from artisan producers including specialities like the exclusive spiced beef sandwich, Mulled Guinness and Guinness smoked salmon.
A firm favourite on the Dublin Christmas calendar is the Christmas Market at Dublin Castle. This year is no exception. Featuring over 25 alpine stalls brimming with unique hand-crafted jewellery, ceramics, textiles and more along with delicious street-food, this is the perfect way to spend a fun day out while checking off your Christmas shopping list. To top off the festive atmosphere, there will be a Neapolitan crib for children, festive live-music performances, and a vintage carousel. Furthermore, set amongst the historic courtyard of Dublin Castle, the State Apartments will be open free of charge to visitors, adding an extra touch to your Christmas celebrations.
For over 500 years, the sound of choral choirs raising their voices in harmony within Dublin’s majestic cathedrals has been a Christmas tradition. This year, those wishing to hear traditional choral concerts should go to St. Patrick’s Cathedral or Christ Church Cathedral, whose choral choirs were established in 1432 and 1493 respectively. On December 23rd St. Patrick’s Cathedral choir will delight visitors with music from The Snowman, while on December 13th & 14th Christ Church Cathedral will be performing “O Holy Night: A Concert of Seasonal Favourites”. It’s advised to book tickets in advance as these events are always in high demand!
UNIQUE CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS
As the big day draws closer, the pressure to find the perfect gift does too. As you prepare festive treats and deck the halls, finding unique gifts in Dublin is one thing you don’t have to stress over. The city is full of gems where you can pick up the perfect presents for loved ones – you just need to know where to look. Whatever your shopping needs, we’ve picked out some of the best spots in Dublin to find the perfect present for every taste.
WALK IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF ARTHUR GUINNESS ON A NEW BREWERY EXPERIENCE
It’s no secret that Guinness is steeped in history and tradition. But how familiar are you with the origins of the black stuff? During a new one-of-a-kind experience, you have the chance to step back in time and explore the rich legacy that made Guinness what it is today.
The Gravity Bar
The Gravity Bar is an iconic spot that offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the city, while you savour a pint of the world-renowned Guinness stout. This unique space, enveloped in glass and steel, tells a story of innovation, tradition, and a deep love for beer that started with Arthur Guinness in 1759.
What to do in Dublin?
With so many attractions and activities, how do you choose what to do in Dublin? We’ve used our insider knowledge to put together a list of 15 other top spots around the city we think you really must visit.