Best Things to Do in Ireland in December: Festive Adventures, Winter Wonders, and Cosy Escapes

Introduction

December is one of the most magical months to visit Ireland. The cities glow with festive lights, villages hum with seasonal markets, and the landscapes take on a quiet, mystical charm. While the days are short and temperatures cool, Ireland’s warm hospitality, rich traditions, and December events make it a perfect time for travelers who love Christmas spirit, cultural experiences, and off-season adventures. In this guide, you’ll discover the best things to do in Ireland in December, from holiday festivities to scenic winter escapes

Experience Ireland’s Christmas Markets

Dublin Christmas Market at Dublin Castle

Set against the historic backdrop of Dublin Castle, this market offers over 30 traditional alpine stalls selling Irish crafts, hot food, mulled wine, and handmade gifts. The atmosphere is made even more special with carol singers and vintage fairground rides. Entry is usually free but timed tickets may be required during busy weekends

Galway Christmas Market

One of the most beloved in Ireland, the Galway Christmas Market fills Eyre Square with festive energy. Wooden chalets offer bratwurst, crepes, handcrafted goods, and local art. There’s also a beer tent, a Santa’s grotto, and a Ferris wheel for sweeping city views

Belfast Christmas Market

Held in the grounds of Belfast City Hall, this market combines Irish charm with continental flavors. Expect food from around the world, local produce, and a cozy heated beer hall. It’s a must for those exploring Northern Ireland in December

Attend a Traditional Irish Christmas Concert

Ireland’s music culture shines in December through candlelit concerts, choir performances, and folk sessions. Churches, town halls, and even pubs across the country host seasonal performances

Top recommendations include the Christmas carol service at St Patrick’s Cathedral in Dublin, the Irish Chamber Orchestra’s holiday concert in Limerick, and small-town community performances in places like Kilkenny and Sligo

Go Ice Skating at Pop-Up Winter Rinks

Though Ireland doesn’t have natural ice lakes for skating, temporary rinks pop up in major towns and cities. These outdoor skating venues are festive, family-friendly, and often set in scenic surroundings

Top rinks include iSkate at the RDS in Dublin, Cork on Ice, and Ice Skating Blanchardstown. Skating under fairy lights is one of the most enjoyable winter activities for couples, families, and friends

Take a Winter Walk in Nature

Glendalough in County Wicklow

December adds an ethereal calm to Glendalough’s ancient monastic ruins, lakes, and forested trails. Dress warmly and arrive early to enjoy the frost-kissed landscape without the crowds

Killarney National Park

Though less green in winter, Killarney’s lakes and woodlands take on a soft, grey-blue tone that’s hauntingly beautiful. Enjoy walks around Muckross House or a peaceful horse-drawn jaunting car ride through the park

Connemara and the Twelve Bens

For experienced hikers, the Connemara mountains in December offer solitude and stunning winter light. Be cautious with weather and daylight hours. Guided walks are recommended for safety

Celebrate the Winter Solstice at Newgrange

Newgrange, the 5,200-year-old passage tomb in County Meath, is famous for its alignment with the winter solstice sunrise. Each December 21st, a beam of sunlight travels through the roof box and illuminates the tomb’s inner chamber

Only a few people are allowed inside during the actual solstice (by lottery), but thousands gather nearby to mark the occasion. Even visiting outside the sunrise event is worth it in December, as the monument and nearby Brú na Bóinne visitor center offer a fascinating insight into ancient Irish astronomy and spirituality

Warm Up in Ireland’s Historic Pubs

There’s nothing better after a cold day than stepping into a cosy pub with a roaring fire and a hot meal. Ireland’s traditional pubs offer the perfect setting to unwind with a pint of Guinness or a glass of Irish whiskey

In Dublin, try The Brazen Head or John Kavanagh’s (The Gravediggers). In Galway, O’Connell’s and Tig Coili are local favorites. In small towns, even the humblest local pub may surprise you with live music, storytelling, or spontaneous dancing

Enjoy a Festive Afternoon Tea

Many Irish hotels and tearooms offer special Christmas-themed afternoon tea menus in December, complete with mince pies, spiced scones, turkey finger sandwiches, and mulled wine or hot port

Recommended places include The Shelbourne and The Merrion in Dublin, Hayfield Manor in Cork, and The G Hotel in Galway. Booking ahead is essential during the holiday season

Visit Castles and Heritage Sites Without the Crowds

While summer is high season for Irish heritage tourism, many castles and historical sites remain open during December and are far less crowded. These include:

• Kilkenny Castle
• Bunratty Castle & Folk Park
• Malahide Castle
• Trim Castle
• Derry’s city walls and museums

Make sure to check winter opening hours as some sites may close earlier in the day

Shop for Irish Gifts and Local Crafts

December is the ideal time to support local artisans and take home thoughtful souvenirs. Cities and towns are filled with boutiques selling Irish wool scarves, Aran sweaters, handmade pottery, linen, soaps, and jewelry

Consider visiting Powerscourt Centre in Dublin, the Kilkenny Design Centre in Kilkenny, and regional Christmas craft fairs for one-of-a-kind items. Buying locally also supports small Irish businesses during the holidays

Celebrate Christmas Day in an Irish Way

Most of Ireland quiets down completely on December 25th. Shops, restaurants, and even most public transport shut down. Locals spend the day with family, eating a traditional roast dinner and enjoying board games or long walks

If you’re staying in Ireland for Christmas Day, book accommodation that provides meals or choose a hotel with a Christmas package. In some towns, like Sandycove in Dublin, you can join the brave few who take part in a Christmas morning sea swim

Ring in the New Year in Style

While this technically edges into January, New Year’s Eve celebrations are a big part of the December experience in Ireland. Cities host countdown events, live music, and fireworks

Dublin’s New Year Festival includes concerts, light shows, and street performances. Smaller towns like Wexford, Westport, and Dingle may have their own local events or torchlight parades, often less commercial and more intimate

Drive or Train Through Ireland’s Winter Scenery

Even in winter, Ireland’s landscapes don’t lose their charm. If you’re up for a road trip or scenic train ride, consider routes like:

• The Ring of Kerry
• The Wild Atlantic Way (especially Clare to Galway)
• The Causeway Coastal Route in Northern Ireland
• The Dublin to Rosslare rail journey along the Irish Sea

The lack of foliage means better visibility of stone walls, ancient ruins, and wide open coastlines. Morning and late-afternoon light in December is often golden and photogenic

Taste Seasonal Irish Dishes

Winter brings heartier menus to Irish restaurants and homes. Some seasonal foods to try in December include:

• Irish stew with lamb or beef
• Roast turkey with cranberry and herb stuffing
• Spiced beef (especially in Cork)
• Mince pies and Christmas pudding
• Hot whiskey with lemon and cloves
• Mulled cider and poitín-based cocktails

Many restaurants feature a set Christmas lunch or dinner menu with festive desserts and local twists

Join a Local Festival or Santa Experience

Beyond Christmas markets, Ireland is filled with smaller local celebrations. Many towns offer:

• Santa’s grottos and train rides for kids
• Living nativity scenes and carol services
• Winter wonderland trails in public gardens or forests
• Outdoor theatre and storytelling events

Places like Causey Farm, the Santa Experience in Limerick, and the Wild Lights at Dublin Zoo are particularly popular among families

Travel Tips for Ireland in December

• Daylight hours are short, from about 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, so plan outdoor activities accordingly
• Pack warm, waterproof layers including gloves, scarf, and hat
• Book accommodation and special meals well in advance if traveling near Christmas or New Year
• Public transport runs less frequently during holidays, and is almost entirely paused on December 25
• Expect lower tourist numbers, especially at natural and historical attractions

FAQs

Is December a good time to visit Ireland? Yes, if you enjoy festive atmosphere, fewer tourists, and don’t mind cold, damp weather. It’s cozy, cultural, and charming

Does it snow in Ireland in December? Occasionally in the mountains or northern inland areas, but snow is rare in most parts of Ireland during December

Are tourist attractions open in December? Most major sites are open but may have shorter hours. Always check ahead for specific holiday closures

What should I pack for Ireland in December? Layers, a waterproof jacket, sturdy shoes, and something warm for evenings. An umbrella and headlamp for darker country areas are also useful

Is it expensive to travel Ireland in December? Prices are generally lower than summer, except around Christmas and New Year when demand for hotels and restaurants spikes