Dublin in December is pure enchantment, glowing lights, the scent of mulled wine, and carols echoing through historic streets. From the courtyard of Dublin Castle to the sparkling shops of Grafton Street, the city transforms into a festive dream. If you’re planning to explore the Christmas markets in Dublin, make The Chancery Hotel your base. Perfectly positioned near Dublin Castle and Grafton Street, it’s a stylish retreat at the centre of the celebration, where every evening ends in comfort after a day of winter wonder.
Where to Find the Best Christmas Markets in Dublin (2025/2026)
Dublin’s festive calendar is as bright as its city lights. This winter, the Christmas markets in Dublin return with new attractions, timeless favourites, and plenty of holiday spirit. Here’s what not to miss during your stay.
Dublin Castle Christmas Market
Dates: 27 November – 17 December 2025
Location: Dublin Castle Courtyard (5-minute walk from The Chancery Hotel)
Set against the backdrop of Dublin’s historic castle, this is the city’s signature Christmas market, and the most atmospheric. Expect over 30 craft stalls, traditional carousels, and local food vendors serving mulled wine, bratwurst, and sweet treats. Carol singers fill the courtyard, and every corner glows under fairy lights. Staying at The Chancery Hotel, a hotel near Dublin Castle, means you’re right at the gates of Dublin’s most magical festive experience.
Twinkletown at Smithfield Square
Dates: 28 November 2025 – 4 January 2026
Location: Smithfield Square, Dublin 7
A modern twist on the classic Christmas market in Dublin, Twinkletown fills Smithfield Square with Ferris wheels, ice skating, food trucks, and live music. It’s lively, fun, and perfect for families or anyone chasing festive cheer late into the night.
Dublin Zoo – Wild Lights
Dates: November 2025 – January 2026 (exact dates TBC)
Location: Phoenix Park
As night falls, Dublin Zoo transforms into a glowing wonderland of lanterns and light installations. The Wild Lights experience has become a holiday favourite, a dazzling evening walk through illuminated animal trails, themed gardens, and light tunnels.
Malahide Castle – Wonderlights
Dates: Mid-November 2025 – Early January 2026
Location: Malahide Castle Gardens (30-minute drive from city centre)
A short trip from Dublin brings you to Wonderlights, an immersive light trail across Malahide Castle’s parklands. Expect music, storytelling, and jaw-dropping visuals projected onto the castle itself, a fairytale evening worth venturing beyond the city for.
Dublin’s festive scene offers something for everyone, from traditional markets steeped in history to immersive light shows that feel almost cinematic. And with The Chancery Hotel just moments from the city’s main attractions, every event is within easy reach.
Beyond the Markets: Festive Dublin Magic
Dublin’s Christmas charm goes far beyond its markets. Step outside The Chancery Hotel, and the city feels alive with lights, laughter, and winter magic waiting around every corner.
Grafton Street Christmas Lights
Every November, Grafton Street transforms into a glowing corridor of gold the city’s most famous Christmas lights. Walk hand in hand beneath the twinkling canopy, listen to live buskers, and browse the window displays at Brown Thomas and Bewley’s Café. Staying at a hotel near Grafton Street means you’re only minutes from this iconic Dublin tradition.
Carols, Concerts & Christmas Shows
From choirs at St. Patrick’s Cathedral to festive concerts at the National Concert Hall, Dublin’s cultural calendar comes alive in December. Theatre lovers can catch Christmas classics at the Gaiety Theatre, while families can enjoy the sparkle of the Pantomime season.
Festive Dining & Winter Evenings
Warm up after your city stroll at one of Dublin’s cozy wine bars or traditional pubs glowing with fairy lights. Or retreat to FAWN, The Chancery’s own modern Irish restaurant and bar, where seasonal dishes and crafted cocktails create the perfect festive atmosphere.
Shopping & Seasonal Walks
Dublin at Christmas is made for wandering. Shop for gifts on Grafton Street, stop for hot chocolate in the Powerscourt Centre, or explore the handmade treasures at local craft fairs all within walking distance of The Chancery Hotel, your elegant base for Christmas in Dublin.
Why Stay at The Chancery During Christmas
Amid the sparkle of Christmas in Dublin, where history meets celebration, The Chancery Hotel stands at the heart of it all. Just steps from Dublin Castle and Grafton Street, it’s where comfort, style, and location come together for the perfect winter escape.
Wake up to views of the city’s festive streets, stroll to the Christmas markets, and return to elegant rooms designed for rest and romance. After a day of exploring, unwind in our Deluxe Wellness King Room with private sauna, or indulge in cocktails and seasonal dining at FAWN.
Whether you’re visiting for a shopping getaway, a romantic city break, or to experience Dublin’s magical markets, The Chancery Hotel offers tailored winter packages that make your stay effortless.
Christmas Markets in Dublin - FAQs
When do the Christmas markets in Dublin 2025/2026 take place?
The Dublin Castle Christmas Market is expected to run from 27 November to 17 December 2025, while Twinkletown at Smithfield Square continues the festivities until 4 January 2026. Other highlights like Wild Lights at Dublin Zoo and Wonderlights at Malahide Castle operate from mid-November through early January.
What’s the best hotel near Dublin Castle for the Christmas markets?
Located just minutes from Dublin Castle, The Chancery Hotel offers an unbeatable location for visiting the markets. Guests can walk to the castle courtyard in under five minutes, making it one of the most convenient hotels near Dublin Castle during the festive season.
Are there other things to do in Dublin at Christmas besides the markets?
Yes, Dublin comes alive in December. Explore the Grafton Street Christmas lights, attend carol services at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, enjoy shows at the Gaiety Theatre, or dine at festive restaurants across the city.
Is The Chancery Hotel close to Grafton Street?
Yes, The Chancery Hotel is a short walk, around seven minutes, from Grafton Street, Dublin’s main shopping and entertainment hub, beautifully lit up during Christmas.
Does The Chancery offer special Christmas or winter packages?
Yes, guests can book festive offers directly through our website, including Romantic Winter Escapes, Shopping Retreats, and Stay 3 Nights & Save 15%OFF promotions.
Is Dublin good to visit during Christmas?
Absolutely. With its mix of historic charm, live music, and festive energy, Christmas in Dublin feels both intimate and vibrant a city full of celebration and warmth.