Once again we have circled back to that most wonderful time of year when everything is coated in the soft blur of twinkling light, and the sound of Michael Bublé becomes a familiar comfort as we wander the aisles looking for the perfect gifts.
And what better way to delve further into the festive cheer than to visit some Christmas markets? It’s a fun way to spend an evening with those near and dear and you can even pick up some Christmas presents while you’re at it.
You may find a unique handmade gift your friend would just adore, and if not, at least you get to indulge yourself with the loveliest treats and drinks that only the festive season can bring.
Here’s a list of some of the best Christmas markets around Ireland this winter season, if you fancy hitting any up.
The Dublin Castle Christmas Market
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With many markets around Dublin City ceasing to exist, Dublin Castle Market will with hopes make its usual return this year to grant you the joy of aimless wandering through cosy stalls filled with marvellous handmade wonders!
The market and its dates are yet to be confirmed however last year it ran from December 8th to December 21st.
Belfast Christmas Market
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Taking place inside the grounds of Belfast City Hall, Belfast Christmas Market is running back to full operations this year!
Grab yourself some personally crafted gifts, or a warm cup of mulled wine as you’re accompanied by the glimmer of lights that line the stalls.
The market is opening from November 18th and it’ll run until December 23rd.
Galway Christmas Market
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As usual, Galway Christmas Market will take place in the heart of the city, Eyre Square.
Grab a stein of German beer in the beer tent, or dance around to the local musicians in the city of culture!
The stalls of the market are filled with tons of gifts and goodies for you to discover—opening on Friday 10th November until Sunday 7th of January 2024.
A Cork Christmas Celebration
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Cork City is renowned for its magical Glow Cork Christmas market, which offers an array of wonderful rides and attractions for those looking for some fun.
The stalls and stores of the market are jam-packed with delicious treats for you to try out, as well as many different types of trinkets that would be perfect stocking stuffers.
Taking place in Bishop Lucey Park, the market runs from November 24th and will run until January 7th.
Waterford Winterval
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This Christmas carnival has got everything from a visit with Santa and a trip to Narnia to Waterford on Ice and the Winterval Express train.
Ireland’s largest Christmas festival returns to Waterford for the 11th year in a row.
So if you’re taking a trip down south then be sure to make a pitstop at the Waterford Winterval anytime from November 17th to December 23rd.
Yulefest Kilkenny
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This year Kilkenny will be the host of the Yulefest Christmas Markets with live music and entertainment, gift crafts, festive drinks and treats, the seasonal celebrations are endless.
Enjoy a few nights away with the family that will be filled with nothing but pure magic in Kilkenny from November 25th.
The Wicklow Christmas Market
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You are in for a real treat this winter as the Wicklow Christmas Markets make its return.
Enjoy an evening of enchantment, mulled wine, Christmas lights and international cuisine in this blissful wonderland, opening from November 18th to December 17th.
Which Christmas market is your go-to for some festive fun?
Words by Rebekah O’Reilly & Shauna Whyte
