Whilst the usual visitor attractions such the Guinness Storehouse might be at the top of your list, there are lots of festive events that will provide you with a different perspective of Dublin.
Wild Lights at Dublin Zoo
An awe-inspiring display of lanterns inspired by wildlife will greet visitors between 3rd November 2017 and 7th January 2018 at the Dublin Zoo. A pride of lions, orangutans, tigers, giraffes, monkeys and more will light up the zoo, along with a 16 metre high porcelain elephant tower and a 30 metre long Chinese dragon.
Chinese performers will wow visitors, who will also be able to browse the Chinese craft market and eat a selection of Chinese foods.
Christ Church Cathedral Seasonal Concerts
Dublin’s oldest building, Christ Church Cathedral has been a place of pilgrimage for almost 1,000 years. Located in the heart of Medieval Dublin, the architecture and beauty make it a reason to visit regardless of whether or not you might have a spiritual inclination.
Seasonal concerts and carol evenings are planned throughout the festive period, for more information on dates check out their website.
Visit The Hole in the Wall Pub
Dubbed the most festive pub in Dublin, The Hole In the Wall on Black Horse Avenue spends TWO WEEKS completing the ‘decoration build’ for the Christmas period.
The 400 year-old pub is also a great place to settle down by the fire and have a pint, giving you the chance to relax and while away an afternoon in the lead up to Christmas.
Dublin Christmas Markets and shopping
Let’s face it, Christmas isn’t Christmas without a visit to a Christmas Market, giving a great opportunity to buy some presents whilst being able to drink a glass of mulled wine.
Dublin offers a number of markets, including year-round shopping arcades such as George’s Street Arcade, a Victorian arcade that whilst might not just be there for Christmas will definitely evoke the Christmas spirit.
Dublin also has a fantastic array of both high street and independent shops, allowing you to fit in as much or little Christmas shopping as you wish.
Christmas Lights
Nothing makes you feel quite as festive as a light switch on and this year Dublin’s main high street will take place on Sunday 19th November. Local areas of Dublin also have their own light shows, so there are lots to choose from while you are there.
And if you can’t get there before Christmas…
Try Dublin’s New Year Festival, which transforms the city between 30th December and 1st January.
A true carnival feel – street performers, magic shows, music and lights make it a New Year celebration to remember. A countdown concert is held, this year featuring Kodaline, Hudson Taylor and Keywest – tickets can be found here.
Aer Lingus operates five days a week throughout winter, flying directly from Cornwall Airport Newquay to Dublin.
