7 Places To Celebrate Christmas in Ireland

Sure, Christmas in the UK is undoubtedly traditional, festive and fun but sometimes a change is very welcome. And what better place to switch up your Christmas 2025 than on the enchanting emerald isle that's only a short ferry or flight away? In this blog, we'll unpack all the details you need to help you plan a Christmas holiday to Ireland including:

• Popular questions about spending Christmas in Ireland
• Unique Christmas traditions in Ireland
• The best places to spend Christmas in Ireland

What to Know About Spending Christmas in Ireland

Is Ireland a good place to visit at Christmas?

Of course! Ireland is great to visit at Christmas because the whole country becomes extra cosy and the locals extra merry. It's similar enough to Christmas in the UK so you can still enjoy mince pies, turkey and Santa but also different enough that you'll still benefit from a change of scene this December.

Is Christmas a big thing in Ireland?

Yes, Christmas is very loved in Ireland. You'll find fun Christmas events throughout the country, Christmas markets and special Christmas shows. People in Ireland also associate it with family, so you'll see lots of family gatherings and meet-ups with friends and family.

How is Christmas celebrated in Ireland?

Christmas in Ireland is about family, classic Irish traditions, and community. The build-up starts with Advent, and by Christmas Eve, most towns and villages will have a special midnight Mass. Afterward, many Irish people head to their local pub, enjoying a pint with friends and family. St. Stephen’s Day (26 December) is also celebrated with parades, often featuring people dressed as the Wren Boys, singing and dancing to mark the occasion. It's a time for reconnecting and sharing the season with loved ones.

Where is the biggest Christmas market in Ireland?

Winterval in Waterford is by far the biggest Christmas market in Ireland, with stalls and twinkling lights in Eyre Square. It has all the usual treats – mulled wine, handmade crafts, and a Santa’s Grotto – but with a distinctly Irish twist. Check out live stunt shows, ride a miniature train and catch a show at the theatre - you won't be easily bored here!

How do you say Merry Christmas in Ireland?

Nollaig shona dhuit and you pronounce it like Null-eg hunna ghwitch.

Is anything open on Christmas Day in Ireland?

On Christmas Day, Ireland slows down – shops close, restaurants shut, and public transport halts. If you’re staying in a hotel, you might be able to find a meal or a drink, but it's best to check ahead. Otherwise, most things are closed as families take the day to enjoy each other's company.

What do they eat on Christmas in Ireland?

Christmas dinner in Ireland is typically turkey and ham, with all the trimmings like:

• Stuffing
• Roast potatoes
• Gravy
• Plenty of vegetables

In some parts of Ireland (like Cork for example), spiced beef is served. For dessert, you can expect a traditional Christmas pudding, along with mince pies and perhaps a slice of Irish whiskey cake.

Unique Christmas Traditions in Ireland

1. Attending Midnight Mass

A cherished Christmas tradition for many Irish families, Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve is a religious gathering where people come together to celebrate. It’s often followed by drinks with friends and family, creating a joyful start to Christmas Day.

2. Christmas Markets and Lights

Ireland’s Christmas markets, particularly in Dublin and Galway, are fantastic for picking up handcrafted Christmas gifts and sampling local treats. Christmas markets in Ireland usually feature incredible live music, food stalls, and fun fiar rides, making them a must-visit.

3. Christmas Day Swim

Join the locals in the Christmas Day swim! Brave swimmers take a chilly dip at beaches like Sandycove in Dublin to raise money for charity, a tradition that’s both exhilarating and meaningful.

4. St. Stephen’s Day (Boxing Day)

December 26th, known as St. Stephen's Day in Ireland, is celebrated with traditional hunts, sports, and gatherings. Some people follow the “Wren Boy” tradition, where groups dress up in quirky outfits to sing and collect donations for charity.

5. Sending Christmas Cards

Another wholesome Christmas tradition in Ireland is sending Christmas cards to their friends and family. They even have a tradition where the first card with the Three Wise Men on it gets hung up on their door to bring good luck in the year ahead.

The Best Places to Spend Christmas in Ireland

1. Kerry

First on our list of the best places to spend Christmas in Ireland is Kerry. From whisky weekends, and Christmas parades to Christmas light switch-ons, there are heaps of things to do in December. Typically, Kerry is famous for its nature and history so spending Christmas here could also be incredibly relaxing as you spend most of the time outdoors.

The Best Christmas Events in Kerry 2024

• Killarney Christmas Market – Expect festive stalls, Santa’s Grotto, and plenty of local treats in the heart of Killarney.
• Tralee Christmas Parade – Watch the streets of Tralee come alive with colourful Christmas floats and over-the-top costumes
• Glenbeigh Christmas Craft Fair – Shop local crafts and enjoy the holiday spirit at this charming market.

Where to Have Christmas Dinner in Kerry:

For a great Christmas dinner in Kerry, try The Killarney Park.

Where to Stay in Kerry at Christmas:

Stay at The Brehon in Killarney for elegance, or book a cosy Irish cottage near Killarney Lakes for a tranquil Christmas getaway.

2. Cork

Cork at Christmas is a vibrant mix of markets, twinkling lights, and festive cheer that fills every corner of the city. Known for its lively character, Cork brings unique events, local traditions, and a warm community spirit to the holiday season.

The Best Christmas Events in Cork 2024

• Glow Cork Christmas Festival – This annual event transforms Bishop Lucey Park into a sparkling winter wonderland with themed displays and interactive light installations. Take a spin on the giant Ferris wheel at Grand Parade for sweeping views of Cork’s festive lights. Glow also features a Christmas market packed with artisanal food, handmade crafts, and live music, all in the heart of the city.
• Cork Christmas Lights Switch-On – A major event to kick off the season, where the entire city gathers on Patrick Street for the big light-up. Expect carol singing, street performers, and, of course, Santa’s grand entrance, which always brings excitement to families and kids.
• Christmas at Fota Island Resort – Just 15 minutes from Cork City, Fota Island becomes a Christmas haven. Each year, this resort creates a unique, immersive Santa experience, including themed winter trails, storytelling with elves, and a visit to Santa’s grotto. The interactive journey makes it a top choice for families.

Where to Have Christmas Dinner in Cork

For an elegant Christmas Day dinner, The River Lee Hotel hosts a festive feast featuring locally sourced turkey, ham, and all the Irish trimmings.

Where to Stay in Cork at Christmas

The Imperial Hotel is a classic choice, known for its beautiful holiday decor and utter cosiness. This historic hotel is right in the city centre, so you’re steps away from all the holiday action.

3. Dublin

Of course, Dublin is a must-visit for any Christmas trip to Ireland. Dublin’s Grafton Street sparkles with festive lights, and window displays from stores like Brown Thomas are worth a look. At St. Stephen’s Green, enjoy a stroll past seasonal displays before settling in at one of the city’s traditional pubs. And if you’re in Dublin on Christmas Eve, attend a candlelit carol service at St. Patrick’s Cathedral – a truly magical experience.

The Best Christmas Events in Dublin  2024

• Dublin Castle Christmas market: A free Christmas market held in a castle
• Sustainable Christmas Craft Market: Pick up eco-friendly Christmas gifts
• Christmas in the Park: A live music event featuring Anna's Number, Theo Fitzgibbon, Winnie Ama and more

If you can, we'd also recommend extending your stay to experience NYE in Dublin. The atmosphere is electric and there's no shortage of fun things to do whether you're into partying or prefer more family-friendly activities.

Where to Have Christmas Dinner in Dublin

Have Christmas dinner at La Maison, famous for its delicious meat selection.

Where to Stay in Dublin at Christmas

Splash the cash and spend a few nights at Clontarf Castle Hotel where you truly feel like you're on a film set.

4. Killarney

If you’re after a Christmas trip that feels like stepping into a postcard, Killarney should be top of your list. This small town in County Kerry is brimming with Christmas charm, from twinkling lights to frosty lakes, making it an idyllic winter retreat.

The Best Christmas Events in Killarney 2024

• Christmas Parade: Join locals lining the streets for this festive parade, complete with Santa, carol singers, and vibrant floats winding through the town centre. It’s pure small-town magic.
• Killarney Sleigh Rides – Hop on a horse-drawn sleigh ride through Killarney National Park. You’ll pass snow-dusted mountains and misty lakes, making for the most unforgettable winter scenery.
• Santa’s Cottage at Muckross House – Set in the historic grounds of Muckross House, this event brings families to Santa’s cosy cottage, surrounded by twinkling lights and holiday cheer.

Where to Have Christmas Dinner in Killarney

For a festive feast, The Killarney Park Hotel offers a classic Christmas lunch with all the trimmings, or head to Rozzers Restaurant at Killeen House for a cosy, laid-back holiday meal with Irish flavours.

Where to Stay in Killarney at Christmas

Stay at The Brehon for a bit of luxury and views over the mountains, or book a rustic Irish cottage near the lakes if you’re after a more intimate, countryside Christmas.

5. Donegal

For a truly Irish Christmas off the beaten track, Donegal offers rugged landscapes and a peaceful, remote Christmas. There’s something special about the wild Atlantic coastline in winter, especially around Malin Head, Ireland’s northernmost point. Wrap up and take a stroll on the deserted beaches, or go for a bracing hike in Glenveagh National Park. Donegal’s slower pace and striking landscapes make it an ideal place for a quiet, reflective Christmas away from it all.

The Best Christmas Events in Donegal 2024

• Letterkenny Christmas Lights and Parade – Kick off the holiday season in Donegal’s biggest town with a parade and lights switch-on in Letterkenny. Expect Santa, festive floats, and a bustling local crowd in high spirits.
• Donegal Christmas Markets – Donegal town hosts a Christmas market with stalls selling local crafts, homemade treats, and mulled cider. It’s the perfect place to pick up unique Irish Christmas gifts while enjoying live music and festive vibes.
• Fanad Lighthouse Christmas Walk – Take in the stunning coastal views on a winter walk to Fanad Lighthouse, which is beautifully decorated for Christmas. Wrap up warm and enjoy a peaceful festive stroll along the windswept coast.

Where to Have Christmas Dinner in Donegal

Try Harvey’s Point on the shores of Lough Eske for an elegant Christmas meal, complete with sweeping lake views..

Where to Stay in Donegal at Christmas

Lough Eske Castle is the perfect fairytale stay, with luxury suites, open fires, and a magical lakeside setting. For something more rustic, book a seaside cottage in Dunfanaghy for a quiet Christmas retreat close to the beach.

6. Kinsale

For a more intimate Christmas by the coast, head to Kinsale. This colourful Irish fishing town feels like a scene straight out of a Christmas card thanks to its colourful houses and stunning sea views. At Christmas, Kinsale lights up with seasonal decorations and small-scale Christmas markets. After exploring the local craft stalls, cosy up by the fire at a local pub like the historic Spaniard Inn, and enjoy some traditional Irish mulled wine.

The Best Christmas Events in Kinsale 2024

• Kinsale Christmas Market – This intimate market is set against the town’s famous pastel-coloured buildings and harbour views. Browse artisan crafts, savour mulled wine, and enjoy live local music.
• Harbour Lights Ceremony – Watch Kinsale’s harbour transform as the boats light up with strings of fairy lights.
• Santa’s Wonderland at Kinsale Town Park – Kids can meet Santa and his elves, explore the Christmas trail, and enjoy festive games and treats in the park. It’s a family favourite and a great way to get into the holiday spirit.

Where to Have Christmas Dinner in Kinsale

For a more traditional option, The Blue Haven offers a classic Christmas dinner menu with all the trimmings in a cosy, beautifully decorated setting.

Where to Stay in Kinsale at Christmas

Stay at The Old Bank Townhouse for a mix of charm and comfort right in the heart of Kinsale.

7. Westport

Westport in County Mayo has a mix of history, Irish Christmas cheer, and the kind of small-town warmth that feels especially magical at Christmas. Westport House, a stunning 18th-century mansion, hosts a series of holiday events, from a Christmas Wonderland complete with Santa’s Grotto to storytelling sessions by the fireplace. After enjoying the festivities, pop into Matt Molloy’s pub, famous for its traditional Irish music sessions, to soak up the local culture.

The Best Christmas Events in Westport 2024

• Westport House Winter Wonderland – Westport House transforms into a winter wonderland where families can meet Santa, visit the Elves' village, and play classic games like 'Hook a Dook'.
• Westport Christmas Market – A free Christmas market with stalls selling local crafts, festive treats, and mulled wine all accompanied by live music from local bands.
• Christmas at Croagh Patrick – Take a Christmas pilgrimage to Croagh Patrick, Ireland’s holy mountain. Locals often gather at the base for a short, symbolic climb, with hot drinks and festive snacks back in the village afterwards.

Where to Have Christmas Dinner in Westport

The Tavern Bar & Restaurant offers a warm, inviting space with classic Irish fare and a Christmas menu that’s all about hearty flavours and local ingredients.

Where to Stay in Westport at Christmas

Stay at Knockranny House Hotel & Spa for a luxurious Christmas retreat with a spa to unwind after the festivities. For a classic Irish B&B experience, Clooneen House in the heart of town provides a cosy and welcoming stay.

Will You Spend Christmas in Ireland?

Whether you want a country escape in Kerry or a city break in Dublin, spending Christmas in Ireland is always a good idea. No need for a long journey as within less than an hour you can be rubbing shoulders with the friendly locals and raising a Guinness to Christmas.

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