There isn’t one main Dublin Christmas Market – there are several!
The capital has been severely lacking when it comes to festive markets, but a few recent additions have given the city a Christmassy boost.
And, while the last few years have been a bit all over the place, we can expect several Christmas Markets in Dublin in 2024!
If you’re looking to visit Christmas Markets in Dublin in 2024, take 10 seconds to read the points below, first:
1. Don’t believe what 90% of websites are saying
So, if you Google ‘Dublin Christmas Market 2024’ you’ll find a load of websites listing markets that no longer take place, e.g. the Dublin Flea Christmas Market or the market at the IFSC – they’re using very dated info.
2. There’s very few Bavarian-style markets
There’s hundreds of Christmas fairs taking place across Dublin in halls and car parks. Unfortunately, there’s only one (maybe two) Christmas markets in Dublin in 2024 that are even remotely Bavarian-style (e.g. the one in Dublin Castle).
8 Christmas markets in Dublin returning in 2024
Photos via Shutterstock
Although the dates for the Dublin Christmas markets are still TBC, I’ll tell you what we know based on previous years (there are plenty of Christmas markets in Ireland, too!).
Below, you’ll find the markets that are definitely going ahead along with ones that are very likely to go ahead!
1. The Dublin Castle Christmas Market
Photos by The Irish Road Trip
It was one of the only Christmas markets in Dublin that went ahead over the last two years and, although small, it’s set in the impressive grounds of Dublin Castle.
In previous years, the castle was finely decked out in fairy lights and the entrance to the castle grounds was lined with 100+ Christmas trees.
The main market is held within the courtyard where there is all of the usual stalls selling festive bits and bobs, a carousel and an open-air bar (more info here).
UPDATE: The Dublin Castle Market has been confirmed. It’s running from November 28th – December 18th.
2. The Smithfield Christmas Market
Dublin’s newest Christmas market, the Smithfield Christmas Market, has just been announced—and if it’s as good as it sounds, we’re in for a treat! Running from November 22nd to January 2nd at Smithfield Square, the market will be open daily from 11 am to 9 pm.
Highlights include Ireland’s first Ice Museum, an ice rink, and a Big Wheel offering stunning city views.
Visitors can unwind at the cosy Nutcracker Snug or savour artisan food and drinks from Fidelity’s market bar.
Red-roofed chalets showcase unique gifts under twinkling lights, creating a charming Bavarian market atmosphere.
3. The Swords Castle Christmas Market
Photos via Shutterstock
If there’s one Dublin Christmas market that’s stood strong in recent years it’s the one in Swords Castle.
It’s home to over 50 stalls buckling with gifts, art, crafts, and food all sold by local traders. There’s also a Santa’s Grotto.
The dates for this year have been announced – the market will run:
- Nov 29th: 3 – 8pm
- Nov 30th + Dec 1st: 11am – 6pm
- Dec 7th + 8th: 11am – 6pm
4. Botanic Gardens Eco Christmas Craft Market
Photos via Shutterstock
The Botanic Gardens will bring back what will be one of several eco-style Christmas markets in Dublin in 2024.
On December 14th and 15th, you’ll find over 70 stalls offering a range of sustainable gifts, as well as seasonal treats and decorative crafts.
It’s an indoor and outdoor market, set in and around the historic glasshouses at the Botanic Gardens in Glasnevin.
The venue will have a light sprinkling of festive cheer with performances from a local choir.
5. The Fumbally Market
Photos via Aisling from The Fumbally
The Fumbally Market is held over several days in December, (the 6th, 7th and 8th this year), with rotating stalls featuring goods from independent artists, crafters, and traders.
It’s one of only a handful of indoor Dublin Christmas markets, which is handy if the weather isn’t playing ball!
You’ll find many a unique gift with everything from notebooks and local honey to hand-made knitwear on offer.
6. Wonderlights
Photos via Wonderlights on FB
Now, this doesn’t really fit alongside the other Christmas markets Dublin has to offer, but it’s well worth a mention.
Wonderlights in Malahide Castle is an interactive attraction with a little alpine food village (see photos above) at the end where you can grab sweet treats and ‘winter warmers’.
This years ‘show’ is the ‘Magic of Winter’ and, as you ramble around the castle grounds, you’ll be treated to Ireland’s largest light show with everything from talking trees to flying fairies.
It runs from from November – January and it is one of several festive things to do in Dublin at Christmas in 2024.
7. Bremore Castle Christmas Market
Photo left via Fingal. Right via Google Maps
A lot of Christmas markets in Dublin are taking place in the grounds of castles this year!
The Bremore Castle Christmas Market in Balbriggan is held in the walled garden of Bremore Castle, with a range of market stalls selling a variety of arts and crafts, as well as delicious food and drinks.
It’s a wonderful opportunity to ‘support local’ with a focus on local traders, artists, and businesses. Dates for this year are TBC.
8. Rathfarnham Castle Christmas Market
Top right photo via Shutterstock
Rathfarnham Castle Christmas Market (TBC) is an outdoor market held in, unsurprisingly enough, the grounds of Rathfarnham Castle, an impressive 16th-century fortified house.
Throughout the day, the magical market has a range of stalls selling artisan goods, local art and crafts, plus opportunities for food and festive warm drinks.
Kids will have the opportunity to post their letters to Santa and there’s also all-day entertainment taking place.
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