📍 Eyre Square, Galway City
Galway’s Christmas Market is one of Galway’s most anticipated events — and for good reason! Eyre Square becomes filled with over 50 wooden stalls, twinkling lights, and the smell of freshly baked treats. It’s the perfect place to find unique handmade crafts or try something new! The stalls usually at 8pm, however the iconic ‘Beer Tent’ will continue serving until 10pm every night.
Don’t miss: Taking a spin on the giant Ferris wheel for unbeatable views over the city.
📍 The Parade, Kilkenny City
Although it’s one of Ireland’s smaller markets, Yulefest packs plenty in, with Santa visits, movie nights, and light shows throughout December. Kilkenny Castle sits as the backdrop to this magical market. Visitors can wander through beautifully decorated stalls selling Irish-made crafts, artisan foods, and seasonal gifts and souvenirs. Even just the location alone makes this one of the best markets in Ireland. So, wander around the castle grounds, soak up the Christmassy spirit and then head into one of the many amazing restaurants nearby.
Don’t miss: The live music performances performed in the courtyard
📍 Belfast City Hall Grounds, Belfast
The Belfast Christmas Market has over local and international 100 traders set up stalls around City Hall. You can try everything from a French crêpe to a German bratwurst. There’s something for everyone to enjoy, making it ideal for a family day out. Experience the market from the top of the vintage helter-skelter or enjoy a quick spin on the traditional carousel.
Don’t miss: The food village is a feast for the senses.
📍 Grand Parade, Cork City
The Marina Market is Corks largest indoor market with over 35 full time food vendors. Between Nov 22nd and Dec 23rd, this market transforms into a Scandinavian-inspired winter wonderland — complete with icy forests, twinkling lights, festive treats, and Christmas magic for the whole family. Children can post letters to the North Pole, while snow machines transform the market into a scene straight out of a Christmas card.
Don’t miss: Visiting Santa in his cosy log cabin.
📍 Waterford City
As Ireland’s largest Christmas festival, Winterval offers ice skating, light shows, Santa’s grotto, and a bustling market filled with delicious street food. In recent years, it has become a favourite of locals and tourists alike. If you’re visiting from afar, we recommend you make a weekend of your trip. There’s plenty of things to do in Waterford!
Don’t miss: The brand-new Winterval circus running from Dec 11th -21st!
These markets are the perfect way to soak up the holiday spirit in Ireland. Each corner of the country has its own unique way of celebrating the winter season. So, grab a cup of hot chocolate (or maybe a mulled wine!), bundle up, and experience the true spirit of Christmas right here!
👉 Start planning your Christmas trip to Ireland today — and experience the magic for yourself!
