When Halloween has come and gone, and daylight starts to fade, you know Christmas is near. Twinkle lights shine brightly in Dublin city, and if at all possible, the capital is even more charming than it is during Spring, Summer or Autumn.
As the streets start to busy up and stores stay open that little bit later, the energy in Dublin city becomes electric. And, whilst we eagerly wait for the big day, December 25, there are tonnes of events to keep us preoccupied.
Here are the top five Christmas events in Dublin this December.
5. Noël – Mornington Singers Christmas Concert 2018
For a hearty dose of Christmas spirit look no further than the Noël concert performed by the prestigious Mornington Singers. Held against the cinematic backdrop of Christ Church Cathedral, this is bound to be a postcard-quality Christmas experience.
Christ Church Cathedral is Dublin’s most impressive ancient cathedral set in the heart of Dublin city. Founded c.1030 is a lasting example of medieval architecture in the capital and oozes character and history, making it an ideal location for such a momentous performance.
Tickets range from €15 – €20 and doors open at 7.30pm, 30-minutes before the performance starts. Tickets are not seat-specific, so arrive early to nab the best view.
Location: Christ Church Cathedral, Christchurch Place, Dublin 2, Ireland.
4. Bébé Mega Christmas Party
Attention Bébé are a show-stopping, 90’s Dublin-based cover band. Having risen from small-time humble happenings to performing at Electric Picnic and the likes, they have become one of Dublin’s musical treasures.
Offering feel-good vibes by the ounce, we can’t help but include them on the list of best Christmas events in Dublin this year. Their annual show will certainly sell out – like it always does – and included in the ticket price is fine quality fun and sing-alongs to songs you’ve forgotten.
They have yet to reveal the location of this year’s Christmas event but have announced that it will be on December 21, 2018. Follow them on Facebook to stay ahead of the crowd and get your hands on a golden ticket.
Oh, and don’t forget your Christmas jumper and dancing shoes!
3. Santa Special Train
For those looking to give the little ones the ride of their lives this Christmas season, the Santa Special Train is just the ticket.
You can choose from the 1960’s vintage steam or a diesel locomotive train to be your vehicle of choice, which departs from Connolly Station in Dublin City and rides a return trip to Maynooth. On board this Christmas train, guests will enjoy a festive atmosphere while Santa visits each and every child, ensuring he knows exactly what they want for Christmas.
The train will take a short break on the platform in Maynooth before guests hop back on board to enjoy mulled wine, mince pies and chocolate selection boxes (which come free with the purchase of each children’s ticket).
Location: Santa Special Train, Connolly Train Station, Dublin 1, Ireland.
2. Ice Skating Blanchardstown
Check out Dublin’s best ice-skating rink this holiday season in Blanchardstown. The rink is 1,000 square metres offering space for all levels of skaters to let loose and have fun. There is also the kid’s rink for ages 3-10 years, as well as the “Penguin Club” which helps little ones take to the ice.
Only moments from Blanchardstown, this ice skating rink is considered the best in Dublin so book in advance – preferably online as it is considerably cheaper – to avoid disappointment.
Location: Ice Skating Blanchardstown, Millennium Park, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15, Ireland.
1. “The Heavens and the Deep Blue Sea” Dinner by H & G Creations
Prepare to lose yourself in a truly unique, immersive Christmas experience. Hosted by Hunt & Gather (or H&G Creations), this dinner promises to surprise, intrigue and excite.
Set in the magical surroundings of an old Georgian tenement building on Henrietta Street in Dublin, “The Heavens and the Deep Blue Sea” will fuse artisanal vegetarian dining with electric immersive theatre, spoken word, performance, art and curiosity.
This is a theatrical experience whereby guests are merely a fly on the wall as a love story unfolds before their very eyes, within the walls of this 300-year-old historical building.
Prepare to be amazed. Expect the unexpected. This is a BYOB, over 18’s event.
Location: “The Heavens and the Deep Blue Sea”, No 12 Henrietta Street, Dublin 1, Ireland.