{"id":41119,"date":"2025-10-10T11:54:56","date_gmt":"2025-10-10T10:54:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.travelodge.co.uk\/blog\/?p=41119"},"modified":"2026-02-04T13:14:53","modified_gmt":"2026-02-04T12:14:53","slug":"dublin-christmas-things-to-do","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.travelodge.co.uk\/blog\/destination-guides\/ireland\/dublin-christmas-things-to-do\/","title":{"rendered":"Dublin&#8217;s Christmas magic: Festive things to do you won&#8217;t want to miss!"},"content":{"rendered":"<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\">Fancy swapping the usual Christmas chaos for a city break filled with festive cheer? We think you should!\ud83c\udf84<\/h2>\n<h4 style=\"text-align: center;\">Dublin\u2019s a brilliant place to celebrate. Think twinkling city lights, the comforting aroma of mulled wine and festive markets full of unique crafts and gifts. It\u2019s got that special Christmas buzz you\u2019re looking for, making it the perfect choice for a pre-holiday escape.<\/h4>\n<h4 style=\"text-align: center;\">The best bit? You can experience all that <a href=\"https:\/\/www.travelodge.ie\/about-us\/dublin-christmas\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\" class=\"wpel-icon-right\">Christmas in Dublin<span class=\"wpel-icon wpel-image wpel-icon-6\"><\/span><\/a> has to offer without blowing your budget. With <a href=\"https:\/\/www.travelodge.ie\/hotels\/679\/Dublin-City-Centre-hotel\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\" class=\"wpel-icon-right\">Travelodge PLUS Dublin City Centre<span class=\"wpel-icon wpel-image wpel-icon-6\"><\/span><\/a> as your brilliant base right in the heart of the action, you\u2019ll be set for a truly great value getaway.<\/h4>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><\/h2>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\">Must-see Christmas attractions &amp; events<\/h2>\n<h4 style=\"text-align: center;\">Dublin really goes all out for the holidays. Here\u2019s a rundown of the must-do events and sights you\u2019ll want to fit into your festive itinerary.<\/h4>\n<h3><\/h3>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>Market merriment: Food, crafts &amp; festive flavour<\/strong><\/h3>\n<h4 style=\"text-align: center;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-41127\" src=\"https:\/\/travelodgeblog.wpengine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Christmas-at-the-Castle-Dublin.jpg\" alt=\"Christmas at the Castle Dublin\" width=\"650\" height=\"459\" srcset=\"https:\/\/travelodgeblog.wpengine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Christmas-at-the-Castle-Dublin.jpg 598w, https:\/\/travelodgeblog.wpengine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Christmas-at-the-Castle-Dublin-250x176.jpg 250w, https:\/\/travelodgeblog.wpengine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Christmas-at-the-Castle-Dublin-120x85.jpg 120w, https:\/\/travelodgeblog.wpengine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Christmas-at-the-Castle-Dublin-480x339.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px\" \/>You can\u2019t do Christmas in Dublin without exploring a market or two. The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.theirishroadtrip.com\/dublin-castle-christmas-market\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener external noreferrer\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" class=\"wpel-icon-right\">Dublin Castle Christmas Market: Christmas at The Castle<span class=\"wpel-icon wpel-image wpel-icon-6\"><\/span><\/a> is a must for grabbing a mulled wine, browsing artisan crafts and soaking up the atmosphere. Keep an eye out too for the newer Smithfield Christmas Market (set to return in 2025) for even more festive flavour.<\/h4>\n<hr \/>\n<h3><\/h3>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>See Dublin dazzle<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/b7t3bXxqMFk?si=90nsONIGIhmLaCGc\" width=\"560\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<h4 style=\"text-align: center;\">Get ready for a serious dose of sparkle! The whole city glows, but for an unforgettable family-friendly evening, be sure to book tickets for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.dublinzoo.ie\/wildlights\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener external noreferrer\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" class=\"wpel-icon-right\">Wild Lights at Dublin Zoo<span class=\"wpel-icon wpel-image wpel-icon-6\"><\/span><\/a>. It\u2019s an incredible light spectacle the kids will love. If you want to venture slightly out of the centre, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wonderlights.ie\/marlay-park\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener external noreferrer\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" class=\"wpel-icon-right\">Wonderlights in Marlay Park<span class=\"wpel-icon wpel-image wpel-icon-6\"><\/span><\/a> is also an amazing light trail that\u2019s worth the trip.<\/h4>\n<hr \/>\n<h3><\/h3>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>Showtime! Panto and carols<\/strong><\/h3>\n<h4 style=\"text-align: center;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-38076\" src=\"https:\/\/travelodgeblog.wpengine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/pantomime.jpg\" alt=\"Christmas pantomime show\" width=\"650\" height=\"459\" srcset=\"https:\/\/travelodgeblog.wpengine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/pantomime.jpg 598w, https:\/\/travelodgeblog.wpengine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/pantomime-250x176.jpg 250w, https:\/\/travelodgeblog.wpengine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/pantomime-120x85.jpg 120w, https:\/\/travelodgeblog.wpengine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/pantomime-480x339.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px\" \/>Secure your seats early, as the annual Festive Panto at venues like The Gaiety or The Helix is hugely popular. Panto is a truly unique British and Irish Christmas tradition that\u2019s great fun for everyone. For something a little more traditional, you\u2019ll find gorgeous Christmas concerts and carol services in the breathtaking settings of St. Patrick\u2019s Cathedral or Christ Church Cathedral. It\u2019s the perfect way to feel properly Christmassy.<\/h4>\n<hr \/>\n<h3><\/h3>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>Something a little different<\/strong><\/h3>\n<h4 style=\"text-align: center;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-41122\" src=\"https:\/\/travelodgeblog.wpengine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Christmas-Eve-Busk-on-Grafton-Street.jpg\" alt=\"Christmas Eve Busk on Grafton Street\" width=\"650\" height=\"459\" srcset=\"https:\/\/travelodgeblog.wpengine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Christmas-Eve-Busk-on-Grafton-Street.jpg 598w, https:\/\/travelodgeblog.wpengine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Christmas-Eve-Busk-on-Grafton-Street-250x176.jpg 250w, https:\/\/travelodgeblog.wpengine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Christmas-Eve-Busk-on-Grafton-Street-120x85.jpg 120w, https:\/\/travelodgeblog.wpengine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Christmas-Eve-Busk-on-Grafton-Street-480x339.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px\" \/>The Christmas Eve Busk on Grafton Street is an amazing annual tradition where you might catch some of Ireland\u2019s most famous musicians performing for charity. If you\u2019re feeling really brave, why not join the crowds for the famously chilly <a href=\"https:\/\/irishtopia.net\/the-history-of-christmas-swimming-in-ireland-from-the-forty-foot-to-local-traditions\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener external noreferrer\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" class=\"wpel-icon-right\">Christmas Day dip at the Forty Foot<span class=\"wpel-icon wpel-image wpel-icon-6\"><\/span><\/a>? It\u2019s an icy tradition that\u2019ll certainly wake you up! If that sounds a bit too cold, we\u2019d recommend a festive <a href=\"https:\/\/experiences.travelodge.co.uk\/en-GB\/GBP\/2a3cb4d00c6986c16211a3dd7ab3f6ad?date=2025-10-10\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\" class=\"wpel-icon-right\">bus tour with afternoon tea<span class=\"wpel-icon wpel-image wpel-icon-6\"><\/span><\/a> or visiting one of Dublin\u2019s many charming \u2018Christmassy Pubs\u2019 for a perfectly cosy pint.<\/h4>\n<hr \/>\n<h3><\/h3>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>Fun for the kids<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/SLXqkKJAIK0?si=RxNoIJKiKU6510QE\" width=\"560\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<h4 style=\"text-align: center;\">Need to keep the little ones entertained? Dublin\u2019s got you covered. Take them to <a href=\"https:\/\/elftowndublin.ie\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener external noreferrer\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" class=\"wpel-icon-right\">Elf Town<span class=\"wpel-icon wpel-image wpel-icon-6\"><\/span><\/a> for a truly magical meeting with Santa and his elves. They\u2019ll also love getting their skates on at popular spots like Dundrum on Ice or Swords on Ice. Or, for a classic movie night with a festive twist, check out a drive-in cinema for a great family night out.<\/h4>\n<hr \/>\n<h3><\/h3>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>Your brilliant base in the heart of Dublin<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-41126 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/travelodgeblog.wpengine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Dublin-City-Centre-1.jpg\" alt=\"Dublin City Centre Travelodge\" width=\"650\" height=\"459\" srcset=\"https:\/\/travelodgeblog.wpengine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Dublin-City-Centre-1.jpg 598w, https:\/\/travelodgeblog.wpengine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Dublin-City-Centre-1-250x176.jpg 250w, https:\/\/travelodgeblog.wpengine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Dublin-City-Centre-1-120x85.jpg 120w, https:\/\/travelodgeblog.wpengine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Dublin-City-Centre-1-480x339.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px\" \/><\/p>\n<h4 style=\"text-align: center;\">A Christmas trip to Dublin shouldn&#8217;t mean blowing your budget. We\u2019re proud to be budget, and your stay at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.travelodge.co.uk\/hotels\/679\/Dublin-City-Centre-hotel\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\" class=\"wpel-icon-right\">Travelodge PLUS Dublin City Centre<span class=\"wpel-icon wpel-image wpel-icon-6\"><\/span><\/a> means you get great value and total comfort, right where you need it.<\/h4>\n<h4 style=\"text-align: center;\">This hotel is your ideal base for all the festive fun we\u2019ve mentioned. You\u2019re perfectly placed for hitting the markets and catching a show, so you won&#8217;t waste a minute commuting. After a long day of exploring the city, you&#8217;ll find just what you need to recharge. We\u2019re talking about our comfy king size beds and rooms designed for a brilliant night&#8217;s sleep.<\/h4>\n<h4 style=\"text-align: center;\">The best part? You don&#8217;t even have to leave the hotel for a great meal! Our on-site Mossco Bar &amp; Restaurant is the perfect place to unwind with a festive drink or grab a delicious dinner. Enjoy a 3-course lunch for \u20ac32.95 with mulled wine for \u20ac3, or a 3-course dinner for \u20ac43.95 with mulled wine included.<\/h4>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><\/h4>\n<h4 style=\"text-align: center;\">Ready to make this Christmas unforgettable? Dublin\u2019s waiting, and it\u2019s easier than ever to plan your perfect festive city break. All you need is your comfy base sorted.<\/h4>\n<h4 style=\"text-align: center;\">Don\u2019t wait! Book your great value Christmas stay in Dublin today and start planning your festive adventure.<\/h4>\n<div class=\"sdstaynearby\">\n<div class=\"sdcol2\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.travelodge.co.uk\/hotels\/679\/Dublin-City-Centre-hotel?sb=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer external\" data-wpel-link=\"external\"><br \/>\n<img decoding=\"async\" style=\"border-radius: 10px;\" src=\"https:\/\/media.travelodge.co.uk\/image\/upload\/v1675260555\/ecrm\/hotels-digi\/IE1011.jpg\" \/><br \/>\n<\/a><\/div>\n<div class=\"sdcol2 sdlast\" style=\"padding-bottom: 20px;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.travelodge.co.uk\/hotels\/286\/Dublin-City-Centre-Rathmines-hotel?sb=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer external\" data-wpel-link=\"external\"><br \/>\n<img decoding=\"async\" style=\"border-radius: 10px;\" src=\"https:\/\/media.travelodge.co.uk\/image\/upload\/v1675260555\/ecrm\/hotels-digi\/IE1007.jpg\" \/><br \/>\n<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a class=\"btn btn-blue wpel-icon-right\" href=\"https:\/\/www.travelodge.co.uk\/search\/results?location=Dublin&amp;sb=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener external noreferrer\" data-wpel-link=\"external\">Search deals<span class=\"wpel-icon wpel-image wpel-icon-6\"><\/span><\/a><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Fancy swapping the usual Christmas chaos for a city break filled with festive cheer? We think you should!\ud83c\udf84 Dublin\u2019s a brilliant place to celebrate. Think twinkling city lights, the comforting aroma of mulled wine and festive markets full of unique crafts and gifts. It\u2019s got that special Christmas buzz you\u2019re looking for, making it the [&hellip;]","protected":false},"author":116,"featured_media":41120,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1673,1821,1361],"tags":[1814,1813],"class_list":["post-41119","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-christmas","category-ireland","category-things-to-do","tag-christmas","tag-winter"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.travelodge.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/41119","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.travelodge.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.travelodge.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.travelodge.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/116"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.travelodge.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=41119"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.travelodge.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/41119\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.travelodge.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/41120"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.travelodge.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=41119"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.travelodge.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=41119"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.travelodge.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=41119"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}