Dublin is one of the best places in the world to spend Christmas. We have everything you need to make a Christmas break really special, from festive family fun to fantastic nights out. Enjoy a truly special Christmas break when you book a break in Ashling Hotel, with easy access to all of Dublin City’s Christmas events and some further afield. Enjoy a shopping trip to the capital or make it a New Year’s Eve to remember in Dublin this Christmas.
Christmas Lights Dublin
Nothing says Christmas in Dublin more than strolling down a busy Grafton Street while shoppers’ bustle about, enjoying a delicious hot chocolate and admiring the thousands of twinkling lights that illuminate every corner. You can also admire the gorgeous Brown Thomas “Christmas” window which impresses us more every year. This year, the annual switching on of the city’s Christmas lights took place on 15th November, which means the Dublin streets are lit up and ready for a festive visit this December.
New Year’s Eve Dublin
After a break in 2020, Dublin’s streets will once again fill with music on New Year’s Eve 2021. It is no surprise that the line-up is set to blow every other NYE event out of the water as famous Irish band Picture This will headline the night. It’s not just New Years eve, there will be pre and post concerts to warm you up and start the year off well, all as part of the New Years Eve festival which is in its 10th year. We recommend booking tickets and accommodation as soon as possible for what promises to be a fun-filled, action-packed weekend for all ages.
Christmas Market
2021 sees the long-awaited return of Dublin’s Christmas Markets, a tradition much-loved by young and old. While there will be no central market this year due to restrictions, there are so many smaller, more personal markets to browse. You’ll find markets dotted across the city in shops, community halls, pubs and even the National Botanic Gardens. These markets give small independent retailers a chance to show their talent and sell their wares in a truly special festive atmosphere. You’ll find everything from clothing and toys to craft and delicious food & drink in the various Christmas markets in Dublin.
Tayto Park
While it’s technically not in Dublin, Tayto Park isn’t far away and is worth the 30-minute drive for their Christmas experience. Tayto Park turns into a winter wonderland in December. You can visit Santa’s workshop, see the elves hard at work, meet Mrs. Clause and the reindeer, enjoy a ride on the steam train express and so much more. It wouldn’t be a Christmas visit without a stop to see the man in red, tell him what you’ve asked for Christmas and receive a lovely keepsake of your trip. Book tickets soon if you’re planning a trip to Tayto Park as spaces are limited and in demand.
Winter Lights
Aside from the gorgeous Wild Lights in Phoenix Park, many of the iconic buildings around the city are illuminated for Winter. Every evening, from December 1st to January 1st, from sunset to 2am, 14 locations around the city will be transformed with custom projections and lighting displays. Make an evening of it and visit the illuminated facades of City Hall, The Civic Offices, The Custom House, The GPO, The Hugh Lane Gallery, The Mansion House, Covanta Dublin Waste to Energy Plant at Poolbeg and Trinity College. It’s a wonderful way to get into a festive mood.
Christmas in Dublin is bustling and exciting and accommodation is in demand. If you’re planning a trip to the capital over Christmas or New Year’s Eve, make sure to book your stay in Ashling Hotel as early as possible. We offer our best available rates and exclusive access to our winter special offers when you book directly on our website.
