Wicklow is known as the ‘Garden of Ireland’ and transforms into a festive hotspot in winter. The historic town, famous for its lush landscapes and Viking heritage, embraces the Christmas season with gusto, as the Wicklow Christmas Market adorns the town’s festive calendar.
In this article, I’ll lead you through what the Christmas market has in store for you in 2023, sharing essential details such as dates, opening times, locations and the distinct local specialities you can expect.
Christmas in Wicklow is a charming blend of age-old traditions and contemporary festivities. You’ll find the historic town aglow with Christmas lights and decorations.
The picturesque landscapes surrounding Wicklow are dusted with frost, creating a beautiful backdrop to this cosy Irish holiday season.
Wicklow Christmas Market 2023
As you explore Wicklow, a coastal town merely 45 minutes away from Dublin, you’ll discover its vibrant Christmas Market, known for its festive wonders.
In 2023, the Christmas market in Wicklow is growing, catering to all ages with its new Santa Express, an expanded Eco Ice Rink and an even larger market brimming with festive lights and trees. Plus, a new covered entertainment space promises puppet shows, stilt walkers and live music.
Entry to this enchanting Christmas wonderland is free, allowing you to immerse yourself in a world of gastronomic delights offered by local food vendors, browse through over 50 craft stalls for the perfect Christmas gifts and enjoy live entertainment that fills the air with joy.
Dates and Location
Wicklow Christmas Market dates: Friday to Sunday: 18th November to 17th December 2023.
Location: The Murrough & Leitrim Place, Wicklow, Ireland.
Opening times: Friday: 2pm to 7:30pm. Saturday and Sunday: 10am to 7:30pm.
Christmas Day: Closed.
Admission: Free, no tickets are required for the Christmas market. Santa Express and Ice skating require tickets.
Payment: Cash is preferred at some stalls.
Santa: Yes, on the Santa Express take the 30-minute train journey through the Tunnel of Lights towards the North Pole. Santa Express is both indoors and outdoors. Photos with Santa are available. Book here.
Ice skating: Yes, at the Eco Ice Rink at Wicklow on Ice at Leitrim Place. From 18th November 2023 to 2nd January 2024. Open to ages 4 and over. 30 minutes per skating session. Book here.
Vegetarian: Yes, plenty of options.
Vegan: Yes, plenty of options.
Gluten-free: Yes, but limited.
Accessible: Yes, including accessible toilets.
Pet-friendly: Yes, but not on the Santa Express.
Parking: Please take public transport to help limit congestion.
Reason to visit: Santa Express, artisanal stalls, live music, craft workshops, historic Abbey backdrop.
Specialities: Homemade fudge, traditional Irish soda bread, local cheese, smoked salmon, craft ales.
Where to stay: The Bridge Tavern is a popular small hotel, 3 minute walk from Leitrim Place.
Hotels near Wicklow Christmas Market
Staying in central Wicklow gives you convenient access to the Christmas market, placing you within a short stroll of the festive hustle and bustle. Only a couple of accommodation options are available in this area. I suggest staying at The Bridge Tavern for it’s ideal location and affordable price.
Location of Wicklow Christmas Market
Christmas in Wicklow
The video below presents a visual representation of the Wicklow Christmas Market experience.
Food at the Christmas Market
Hot Buttered Oysters: A unique delicacy at the Wicklow Christmas Markets, these are locally sourced oysters, shucked on-site, and quickly pan-fried in hot butter with a hint of garlic. Served piping hot, they provide a taste of the Irish Sea in a delicious bite.
Irish Whiskey Fudge: Fudge is a traditional sweet treat in Ireland, and some versions available at the market stand out with its hint of Irish whiskey. This melt-in-your-mouth confectionery is a treat for the sweet-toothed, blending creamy textures with the warming, distinct notes of Irish whiskey.
Mulled Wine and Cider: While not unique to Ireland, these festive drinks hold a special place at Christmas markets. Mulled wine, made by warming red wine with various mulling spices, and cider, apple-based and spiced similarly. They are served hot and are the perfect hand warmers on a chilly winter evening.
Barmbrack: Often enjoyed with a hot cup of tea, Barmbrack is a traditional Irish fruitcake made with yeast. It’s a rich, dense cake filled with sultanas and raisins, providing a sweet and filling snack as you peruse the market stalls.
Bratwurst Sausages: Reflecting the international offerings at the market, stalls serve up these German-style sausages. Grilled and usually served in a bun with sauerkraut and mustard, bratwurst sausages are a hearty street food favourite that complements the Irish specialties.
Cheese Toasties: One stall showcases Ireland’s vibrant artisan cheese industry by serving up delicious cheese toasties. Made with a selection of locally produced cheeses and served on fresh Irish soda bread, these toasties offer a warm, indulgent snack.
Hot Chocolate: Nothing wards off the winter chill like a cup of hot chocolate. The Christmas markets in Wicklow feature several stalls serving this classic treat, often with the option to add a dash of Irish cream liqueur for an extra festive kick.
What to Buy in Wicklow
Handmade Woollens: Wicklow, known as the ‘Garden of Ireland’, has a rich tradition of sheep farming. You’ll find beautifully handcrafted woollen goods at the Christmas market, ranging from warm jumpers and hats to intricately woven scarves and mittens.
Locally Made Ceramics: You’ll come across handmade ceramics produced by talented local artisans at various stalls. Ranging from beautifully glazed mugs and bowls to unique ceramic art pieces, each item reflects the skill and creativity of its maker.
Irish Whiskeys and Craft Beers: Reflecting the county’s vibrant drinks industry, a selection of locally produced Irish whiskeys and craft beers are available for purchase. These make a perfect gift for the discerning drink connoisseur, offering a taste of Wicklow’s brewing and distilling traditions.
Artisan Cheese: The Christmas market provides a platform for local cheese makers to showcase their craft. You can buy a variety of Irish cheeses, from robust cheddar to creamy blue, all made using traditional techniques and locally sourced milk.
Handcrafted Christmas Decorations: Many stalls sell an array of Christmas decorations handcrafted by local artisans. From intricate wooden ornaments to handmade Christmas wreaths, these items add a touch of Wicklow charm to any festive display.
Homemade Preserves and Chutneys: Made from locally sourced fruits and vegetables, these homemade delights add a special touch to any Christmas feast. Whether it’s a tangy apple chutney or a sweet raspberry jam, these preserve jars capture the flavours of Wicklow in every bite.
Traditional Irish Musical Instruments: Look for a stall selling traditional Irish musical instruments such as the bodhrán (an Irish frame drum) or the tin whistle for a truly unique gift. Whether for a music enthusiast or a keen learner, these instruments represent an essential part of Irish cultural heritage.
For an extensive guide on the best Christmas markets in Ireland, do explore my travel guide, which provides all the information needed to plan a festive itinerary.
Or if you would like to visit Ireland’s most popular Christmas event, get the details to start planning a visit to Dublin Christmas Market 2023.
For those planning a visit to the city, Visit Wicklow serves as a practical and detailed resource packed with essential information and useful tips. This Wicklow Town Heritage Trail might be a good way to start exploring.
Sustainable Christmas Tips
Here are a few tips on how we can travel more responsibly in Wicklow at Christmas.
Stay in an Eco Hotel: If you’re visiting and staying overnight in Wicklow, opt for a hotel powered by renewable energy.
Reduce Food Waste: Many stalls sell local specialties at the Christmas market. Purchase only what you can eat to minimise food wastage. In addition, consider packing any leftovers for later to ensure that no food goes to waste.
Practice Ethical Consumption: Support local artisans and producers who use sustainable shopping practices.
Choose a Sustainable Diet: Try some of the vegetarian or vegan options available at the market. The production of plant-based foods typically requires less energy and resources compared to animal-based products.
Opt for Sustainable Transport: Wicklow is a compact city, making it easy to get around on foot or by bike. If you need to travel further, consider using public transport or sharing a ride to minimise your carbon footprint. Bike rentals are readily available throughout the city, providing an environmentally friendly and enjoyable way to explore.
FAQ
The Wicklow Christmas Market dates are from 18th November to 17th December 2023.
Wicklow’s Christmas Market takes place at Leitrim Place and along the Murrough.
Typically, Wicklow Christmas Market opens from Friday: 2pm to 7:30pm. Saturday and Sunday: 10am to 7:30pm.
The winter weather in Wicklow tends to be cool and crisp, with average temperatures ranging from 3 to 8 degrees. Snow is infrequent but adds to the festive atmosphere when it does fall.
Visitors can explore the picturesque Wicklow Mountains National Park, visit the historic Glendalough, or wander through the town’s charming streets filled with boutique shops and cosy cafes.
The market features several vegetarian options, including traditional Irish soda bread, Wicklow Blue cheese, and vegetarian versions of the hearty Irish stew.
Yes, Wicklow is a compact city with most attractions within walking distance. Bikes are also available for rent for those who prefer to cycle.
If you would like to leave a review of Wicklow Xmas Market, comment below.
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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 Wicklow, Ireland. This means I get a small commission from any bookings at no extra cost to you.
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