6 Ways to Celebrate Christmas in Dublin 2025

As russet leaves settle in heaps around the city, it might feel like all that autumn magic is fading away. But don’t fret — one of Ireland’s biggest holidays is just around the corner, with more treats and tinsel in tow.

And what a place to experience the festive season! This year, there’s plenty to do in Ireland’s capital, from ice skating along a proper alpine trail to listening to Christmas carols with a hot mulled wine in hand. 🍷

Want to experience the best of Christmas in Ireland? Here’s your 2025 Guide to Christmas in Dublin:

1. Explore a Christmas Market 🎁

Originating in Germany and Austria, Christmas markets are now a beloved winter tradition around the world, but nowadays, they’re much more than a few stalls. Alongside classics like roasted chestnuts, bratwurst sausages, and handcrafted gifts, you might also find carol singers, dazzling illuminations, and even entire fairgrounds.

Dublin hosts a variety of Christmas markets in December, from Smithfield’s sprawling Twinkletown to Malahide Castle’s quaint log cabins and twinkling lights.

2. See Your Favourite Musician for Free 🎤

Each year, buskers take over Grafton Street on Christmas Eve to lift spirits and raise money for charity. But this isn’t just any busking event. In fact, it’s attracted some of Ireland’s biggest stars, including Bono, Sinéad O’Conner, and Hozier. So, if you’ve ever dreamed of bumping into your favourite celebrity, try your luck on Grafton Street this year.

Note: Expect lots of crowds. It’s best to arrive early!

3. Catch a Pantomime 🎭

Nothing screams Christmas more than... well, the actual screams of an entire audience yelling It’s behind you!

Pantomime is a popular type of theatre in the UK and Ireland in December, thanks to its light jokes and family friendly themes. Affectionately known as panto, it takes a classic fairy tale and transforms it into a loud, glittery whirlwind of music, slapstick comedy, and chaos. People often love or hate it — but for those who love it, it’s pure festive joy. This year, the Gaiety Theatre is putting on a production of Beauty and the Beast. Grab a ticket and leave your adult self at home.

4. Jump off Forty Foot for a Christmas Day Dip 🏊‍♂️

Join hundreds of Dubliners at the iconic Forty Foot for an ice-cold dip on Christmas Day. This legendary swimming spot has been favoured by the bravest of locals for over 250 years, even making an appearance in the opening pages of James Joyce’s Ulysses.

For many families, plunging into freezing cold water is a time-honoured way to kick off Christmas day feeling energised. Be warned, though — it’s cold cold. Defrost with a mug of hot cocoa afterwards and bask in that smug post-swim glow.

5. Go Ice Skating ❄️

Tie up your skates and glide into festive season the right way: by laughing at the friend who can never quite seem to stay on their feet. Dublin has plenty of options, from pop-up outdoor rinks at Christmas markets to Dún Laoghaire’s full alpine skate trail. If you’re missing a White Christmas, this might be the second-best thing!

6. Watch a Christmas Movie at Dublin’s Best Cinema 🍿

Put your English skills into practice at the Lighthouse Cinema, which will be showing a tonne of Christmas classics — plus some unexpected gems — during their Naughty or Nice season. Whether you’re a diehard Die hard fan, falling in love with Love Actually for the first time, or rewatching Elf for the 100th time, there’s something for you.

Plus, the Lighthouse is one of the best places to watch movies in Dublin, with a cosy café, a full bar, and plenty of popcorn.

Unwrap the Joy of Language Learning 🎁✨

This Christmas, give yourself the greatest gifts of all: new opportunities, unforgettable experiences, and fluency in a global language.

At Twin, our English language courses combine expert tuition with the benefits of cultural immersion and authentic practice, so you can learn real English, your way. Explore our general and specialised courses in London, Eastbourne, and Dublin.