Ireland’s Christmas markets are back on the cards for 2021. So, today, we’re giving you a rundown of the five best Christmas markets in Ireland this year.
There’s nothing quite like a Christmas market to get you in the festive spirit. If you happen to be in Ireland leading up to the 25 December, these are the best Christmas markets in Ireland this year.
Quaint wooden chalet-like stalls brimming with colourful crafts, delicious food, mulled wine, and more, all communing below twinkling fairy lights. Ah, we’re feeling all warm and fuzzy inside just thinking about it.
With many of last year’s festivities called off due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we’re relieved to hear that many Christmas markets will be returning to the Emerald Isle this year.
So, grab your warmest coat and your woolly hat, scarf, and gloves, and let’s go!
5. Waterford Winterval – for Ireland’s biggest Christmas festival
Set in the heart of Ireland’s oldest city, Waterford Winterval is a must-visit for yuletide joy and family fun. This year’s market is confirmed to take place from 19 November to 23 December, and entry is free for everyone.
With Ireland’s largest Christmas tree, measuring at an impressive 50 ft (15.2 m), acting as the iconic centrepiece of this festive market, it will be hard not to feel immersed in the festive spirit here.
From festive food and craft stalls to live performances and various activities, Waterford Winterval is sure to offer a fun day out for all the family.
Highlights include the Waterford Eye, a vintage carousel, and the Winterval express train. All of this festive fun comes together to make Waterford Winterval one of the best Christmas markets in Ireland this year.
More info: HERE
Address: 1, 9 Cathedral Square, Waterford, X91 Y448, Ireland
4. Glow, Cork – no official dates yet
If you’re in the southwest of Ireland this festive season, then you need to check out Glow in Cork.
No official dates have been released for the market yet. However, with restrictions easing in the lead up to the festive season, it looks likely that the event will return to the city this December.
Lighting up Grand Parade and Bishop Lucey Park every year, Glow offers up a colourful market filled with food and crafts stalls, rides and attractions, and more.
Bishop Lucey Park is normally illuminated in lights, focusing around a certain theme. In 2019, the park came to life as ‘The Night Before Christmas in Old Cork’.
Keep an eye on social media and the Glow Cork website over the coming weeks for dates.
More info: HERE
Address: Grand Parade, Centre, Cork, Ireland
3. Wicklow Christmas Market – one of the best Christmas markets in Ireland this year
Located just a short drive from Dublin, Wicklow Christmas Market is a must-visit if you’re in the capital this festive season.
Dates announced for this year’s market are 27 and 28 November, 3-5, 10-12, and 16-21 December.
Entry is free, and highlights include a festive range of food and craft stalls, live entertainment, a funfair, and even alpacas!
Located in Leitrim Place at the heart of Wicklow Town, there is plenty for all ages to eat, drink, and be merry.
Entry to the market is free. However, you must pay for tickets to ride the Santa Express, which we think is definitely worth it.
More info: HERE
Address: Leitrim Pl, The Murrough, Corporation Land (1st Division), Wicklow, Ireland
2. Belfast Continental Christmas Market – for foods and crafts from all over the world
Set on the grounds of Belfast City Hall in the heart of the city, Belfast Continental Christmas Market is one of the most highly anticipated festive events taking place in the north this Christmas.
With twinkling lights suspending above colourful wooden chalets serving food, drinks, and festive crafts, Christmas joy and merriment is in abundance at this market.
With over a month of festivities, the market is taking place from 20 November to 23 December. So, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to make your way around all the festive stalls and try all the delicious foods on offer.
With an array of international traders, fun-filled attractions, and more, this is a Christmas Market you’ll never want to leave.
More info: HERE
Address: Donegall Square N, Belfast BT1 5GS
1. Galway Christmas Market – Ireland’s premier Christmas market
Topping our list of the best Christmas markets in Ireland this year is the famous Galway Christmas Market.
Ireland’s capital of culture does not do Christmas in half measures. So, you’re sure to soak up the Christmas spirit in the City of Tribes.
Galway Christmas Market is located in Eyre Square at the heart of the city. It is home to an array of festive food and craft stalls, fun-filled attractions, and more.
While official dates are yet to be announced, the market is expected to take place from 12 November until 22 December, offering up over a month of festive fun.
More info: HERE
Address: Eyre Square, Galway, Ireland
