Dublin Christmas Market 2023: Is Mistletown Coming Back?

Dublin city centre is buzzing with locals and visitors eating, drinking and shopping in the lead-up to Christmas and New Year’s. A lot is going on and Dublin Christmas Market is one of the most popular events in December. There are actually several Christmas markets in Dublin, including Mistletown and Dublin Castle.

Dublin Christmas Market 2023

Mistletown is a highly anticipated event in Dublin that captures the festive spirit of Christmas. Although it runs for a shorter period than some other Christmas markets, its popularity remains unrivalled.

In December, it offers a wonderful opportunity for people to unwind and get into the holiday mood, whether after work or on a weekend.

One thing that makes Mistletown stand out is the lively and bustling atmosphere. The market is a hub for family and friends, who come together to enjoy drinks, food, and shopping in the festive surroundings.

The market is filled with an array of stalls selling everything from delicious food and drinks to unique handmade gifts and decorations.

Mistletown’s festive ambience is further enhanced by its beautiful decor. The entire market is transformed into a winter wonderland with twinkling lights, Christmas trees, and seasonal music.

It’s impossible not to get caught up in the holiday cheer as you stroll through the stalls, soaking up Christmas sights, sounds, and smells.

Update: Regrettably, Mistletown was cancelled last year. The community awaits news of its potential resurgence in the 2023 season.

Despite the cancellation of Mistletown, Dublin remains a city teeming with festive events throughout the Christmas season.

The city’s main shopping streets and squares are adorned with dazzling Christmas lights and beautifully decorated trees, creating a magical and enchanting ambience for all to enjoy.

1. Mistletown

Mistletown dates: Potential dates: 2nd to 23rd December 2023.
Location: St Michan’s Street, Dublin City – located at the site of the indoor fruit and veg market.
Opening times: 10am to 10pm on the weekends, opens at 12 noon during the week. Closes at 6pm on the 23rd December.
Christmas Day: Closed.
Admission: Free, no tickets required.
Christmas lights: Yes, switch on date to be announced.
Santa: Yes.
Ice skating: Yes, in Dublin city centre.
Vegetarian: Yes, plenty of options.
Vegan: Yes, many options.
Gluten free: Yes, but limited.
Accessible: Yes.
Pet-friendly: Yes, dogs are allowed on a lead.
Parking: Please take public transport to help limit congestion.
Recommended tour: Dublin highlights walking tour is a great introduction to the city.
Reason to visit: A very family friendly event with a focus on artisan food, arts and crafts. As in indoor fair, you can visit no matter the weather.
Specialities: Mince pies, themed woolly hats, cheesy Christmas jumpers and a brass band.
Travel tips: Kids will love the carousel and vintage helter skelter, spiral slide. While adults might enjoy some hot buttered rum or a gin and mistletoe tonic.
Where to stay: Zanzibar Locke for its location near O’Connell Street.

You can find local and international Christmas food and drinks at the Dublin Artisan Food Village within the indoor market.

In 2023, more than 20 Christmas food stalls are expected and warming hot drink stations, both alcoholic and chocolate or tea-based.

Along with the Artisan Food Village, the Christmas Market has a Craft Market with more than 80 Christmas stalls.

Wooden toys and gifts are popular, and the cheesy Christmas jumpers are excellent for a bit of festive fun. Handmade Christmas baubles and other decorations, chocolates and preserves make great gifts.

Hotels near Dublin Christmas Market

Given that several Christmas markets are around the city, I suggest staying somewhere central in Dublin.

I recommend Zanzibar Locke. It’s located on the riverfront, not far from O’Connell Street in the heart of Dublin City Centre. In this area, you’re near cafes, bars, shopping and sights while having easy access to the Christmas markets.

If that doesn’t suit you, my guide to hotels near Dublin Christmas Market lists several convenient and good-value hotels for a short stay in Dublin.

Location of Mistletown

Mistletown is a 15-minute walk from O’Connell Street and a 25-minute walk from St Stephen’s Green. The Red LUAS tram will take you directly to Four Courts and Mistletown. On-street parking is limited, so please take public transport, walk or bike if the weather permits.

City and Christmas Tours

Exploring the vibrant city of Dublin through a guided tour is an excellent way to immerse oneself in the city’s rich history and culture.

With its captivating blend of modern and traditional architecture, colourful facades, and bustling streets, Dublin is a city that has something to offer to everyone.

I highly recommend taking this city tour of Dublin, which offers an opportunity to experience the city’s highlights and iconic landmarks, such as the majestic Dublin Castle, the historic Trinity College, and the iconic Ha’penny Bridge.

If you want to delve deeper into the local culture, a food tour would be an excellent alternative, providing a unique opportunity to learn about Dublin’s culinary traditions and flavours.

This is Dublin’s most popular food tour, or you might prefer this more affordable street food tour.

Travel Insurance

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World Nomads provides travel insurance for travellers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

2. Christmas at the Castle

Dublin Castle is a significant historical landmark in the city and one of the top destinations for holiday enthusiasts, thanks to its renowned Christmas event.

The castle grounds host one of Ireland’s most popular Christmas markets, featuring over 30 traditional alpine-style stalls offering delightful seasonal treats and crafts.

At this festive event, you can experience the magic of Christmas while taking in the stunning surroundings of the castle.

The stalls are adorned with twinkling lights and are stocked with everything from traditional handcrafted decorations and unique gifts to delicious mulled wine and mouth-watering treats like roasted chestnuts and gingerbread cookies.

Update: Tickets are still available.

Dates: Likely dates: Thursday 7th to Wednesday 20th December 2023.
Location: In the courtyard of Dublin Castle.
Cost: This is a free event but you must book a ticket in advance.

3. Eco Christmas Craft Market

The Eco Christmas Craft Market is a unique and innovative holiday shopping destination offering diverse sustainable, high-quality products.

What sets this market apart from others is its commitment to eco-friendliness, with an emphasis on sustainable gift options, zero-waste packaging, and recycled, upcycled, and secondhand gifts.

You can expect to find an array of handmade crafts, jewellery, clothing, accessories, and home decor items, all of which have been thoughtfully created using sustainable materials and practices.

In addition to the diverse product offerings, the Eco Christmas Craft Market provides a platform for local artisans and makers to showcase their talents and promote eco-friendly products.

Dates: Likely dates: 9th to 10th December 2023.
Opening times: From 10am.
Address: National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin, Dublin.

4. Wicklow Christmas Market

Wicklow is a charming coastal town located just a 45-minute drive south of Dublin, making it a convenient stop for travellers exploring the surrounding areas.

During the Christmas season, the town comes alive with a vibrant and bustling Christmas market that attracts visitors from far and wide.

The market offers a variety of stalls selling everything from handmade crafts and gifts to delicious food and drink, making it the perfect destination for holiday shopping and festive indulgence.

Dates: Likely dates: 18th November to 17th December 2023.
Opening times: 10am to 7:30pm.
Location: The Murrough & Leitrim Place, Wicklow, Ireland.

What to Expect in Dublin

The following video provides a vivid glimpse into what the Dublin Christmas Market at Dublin Castle is like, allowing you to experience the festive atmosphere and unique offerings of the market from the comfort of your own home.

Things to Do in Dublin in Winter

Dublin is a vibrant city that offers plenty of activities to enjoy during the winter season. Here are some things to do in Dublin that are particularly suited to winter visits:

• Visit the Christmas markets – Of course, the Christmas markets are my first winter recommendation. Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere, explore the market stalls, and indulge in seasonal treats like mulled wine and roasted chestnuts.
• Take a walk through St. Stephen’s Green – The beautiful St. Stephen’s Green park offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. During the winter, the park is transformed into a winter wonderland with twinkling lights and festive decorations.
• Enjoy a traditional Irish music session in a cosy pub – Dublin is known for its lively pub culture, and there’s nothing quite like cozying up in a traditional pub with a pint of Guinness and enjoying live Irish music.
• Ice-skating – During the winter season, an ice-skating rink is set up in the heart of Dublin’s city centre, offering a fun and festive activity for all ages.
• National Gallery of Ireland – The National Gallery of Ireland houses a vast collection of European and Irish art from the Middle Ages to the present day. It’s the perfect destination for art lovers seeking a cultural experience during the winter season.
• Dublin City Gallery The Hugh Lane – The Hugh Lane Gallery features an impressive contemporary and modern art collection, including works by Francis Bacon and Jack B. Yeats. The gallery also hosts temporary exhibitions throughout the year.
• The Irish Whiskey Museum – This museum provides visitors with an immersive experience of the history and production of Irish whiskey. It’s a great indoor activity during the colder winter months and a perfect way to warm up with a whiskey tasting.
• EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum – This museum offers a fascinating insight into the history of Irish emigration, with interactive exhibits and storytelling that brings to life the stories of the Irish diaspora.
• The Little Museum of Dublin – This museum provides a quirky and charming look at Dublin’s history, with a particular focus on the 20th century. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking an offbeat museum experience during the winter season.

The latest information for travellers is published by Visit Dublin, the official tourism office.

Sustainable Christmas Tips

Visiting Dublin at Christmas is an increasingly popular choice for a winter destination. Here are some examples of how to implement simple sustainability measures to create a positive impact during your trip:

• Shop mindfully – Consider purchasing locally made or sustainably sourced gifts at the Dublin Christmas markets. For example, you can support local artisans and craftspeople by purchasing handmade gifts, like woollen scarves or artisanal soaps.
• Use public transport – Dublin has an extensive public transport system, including buses, trams, and trains. Use these sustainable modes of transport to get around the city and reduce your carbon footprint.
• Stay in a sustainable hotel – There are a number of sustainable hotels in Dublin which are powered by renewable energy sources and have implemented energy-saving measures throughout the hotel.
• Support local housing – Instead of staying in short-stay apartments, consider staying in hotels that support the local housing market and ensure that affordable housing is available to locals.
• Avoid plastic – When visiting the Christmas markets, try to avoid purchasing items made or packaged with plastic. For example, choose to purchase gifts that are wrapped in recyclable paper or reusable fabric.
• Eat locally sourced food – Dublin has a fantastic food scene, with many restaurants offering locally sourced, organic food. Check out restaurants like The Fumbally, which sources ingredients from local farmers and producers.
• Be open to diverse cultures – Dublin is a diverse city with a rich cultural heritage. Take the time to explore areas beyond the main tourist destinations and engage with local communities to gain a deeper understanding of the city’s cultural fabric.
• Support the arts – Dublin has a vibrant arts scene, with many local events and festivals throughout the year. Attend events like the Dublin Theatre Festival or the Dublin Fringe Festival to support local artists and performers.

FAQ

If you have any questions or comments about visiting the Dublin Xmas market in 2023 or visiting Dublin in December more generally, please leave a comment below.

If you have visited Mistletown Christmas Festival and would like to leave a review, this would help people who are thinking about visiting or making plans for an upcoming trip.

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Recommendations are independently chosen based on personal travel experiences and extensive research. This post contains affiliate links to hotels and tours in Dublin, Ireland. This means I get a small commission from any bookings at no extra cost to you.