Christmas in Dublin Ireland brings out all the festive cheer as we found out on a weekend getaway. We were surrounded by not only tourists from other countries but also Irish people who had come to the capitol to shop and to enjoy the cheerful festive atmosphere. Great things to do for Christmas in London include visiting Christmas markets, such as the Dun Laoghaire Christmas market and Winter Funderland.
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1. Festive Decorations
There are Christmas trees galore everywhere such as this beautiful one at the landmark hotel, The Shelbourne.
The beautiful decorations at The Shelbourne extend to this gorgeous fireplace.
The State Apartments at Dublin Castle have a massive, beautifully-decorated tree as well. The other ornaments are slightly more understated. With all the gilt in the rooms, the Christmas decor really shows sparkle and splendour.
Grafton Street, the famous shopping street, is full of buskers and stores decorated for the holidays.
2. Visit A Cathedral
Visit beautiful and historic St. Patrick’s Cathedral (Roman Catholic) for a Christmas carol service. Christ Church Cathedral (Church of Ireland) also has an award-winning choir whose music will put you in the holiday spirit.
3. Fireworks at Dun Laoghaire
Just a short rail ride away on the commuter line at the town of Dun Laoghaire, they had fireworks over Dublin Bay which were spectacular (if cold). I’ve always thought of fireworks as a New Year’s thing so it was a pretty nice surprise to see them before Christmas.
4. Christmas Markets
Of course, it wouldn’t be Europe without a Christmas market. Unlike Vienna, Dublin is not awash in Christmas markets awash in Christmas markets. There are only two Christmas markets in Dublin, one near the city centre at St. Stephen’s Green and the other in the Docklands, both of which are small and charming.
5. Winter Funderland
Winter Funderland is a long-standing Christmas tradition in Dublin according to our taxi drivers. All of Dublin will get there at some point during the holidays (and it definitely felt like it when we were there!) Similar to Winter Wonderland in London, it’s got lots of kid-pleasing winter activities such as ice-skating, a circus and a carnival. Our children had a blast! They actually went on a log flume in the middle of winter – crazy!!
I hope you enjoyed our whistlestop tour of Christmas time in Dublin and it has gotten you in the mood for Christmas!
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