As the evenings get darker and the air gets crisper, Dublin begins to twinkle with festive cheer. While the city doesn't have one single "main" Christmas market, it comes alive with several different options, each offering its own special sprinkle of yuletide magic.
This year, there's been a bit of a shake-up. You might have heard the news that the hugely popular Dublin Castle Christmas market has been cancelled for 2025. While it will no doubt be missed, there are plenty of other brilliant options ready to welcome you with mulled wine and festive treats.
To help you navigate the festive season, we’ve put together the ultimate guide to the best Dublin Christmas markets for 2025, from large-scale events to smaller, local gems. And the best part? Aircoach makes getting to the heart of the festive action simple and stress-free, with routes connecting you to Dublin from across the country.
So, the Dublin Castle Christmas Market is Cancelled... What Now?
Yep, unfortunately it’s true. The Christmas market at Dublin Castle will sadly not be going ahead in 2025. The official reason is that the castle is needed for government business related to the EU Presidency.
I know, we’re gutted too! The twinkling lights and historic backdrop have made Dublin Castle a firm festive favourite for locals and visitors alike over the years.
But don’t hang up your stocking just yet! The festive spirit in Dublin is far from cancelled. The city is still buzzing with plenty of fantastic alternatives ready to fill your Christmas calendar. Think of it as a chance to discover a new favourite festive spot.
The Best Christmas Markets in Dublin for 2025
With that in mind, get ready to explore a city brimming with festive cheer. Here’s our roundup of the top Dublin Christmas markets you won’t want to miss.
TwinkleTown (The New Headliner)
With Dublin Castle out of the mix this year, TwinkleTown is stepping in as the main event of the Dublin Christmas market 2025 season! TwinkleTown is taking over Smithfield Square with a super-sized ice rink, a Ferris wheel for city views and charming vintage fairground rides.
You can warm up with a festive drink at the Twinkle Tavern or browse the market stalls for unique gifts and tasty treats. With live shows and performances in the Spiegeltent, it’s set to be a magical experience for all ages.
- Dates: 28th November - 4th January
- Location: Smithfield Square
Dublin Loves Christmas (The Big Newcomer)
This is one of the biggest and most exciting new additions to Dublin's festive scene. Combining a funfair atmosphere with traditional market charm, Dublin Loves Christmas at the RDS features a full-size ice rink, an Observation Wheel and plenty of thrill rides.
Wander through Bavarian-style market stalls, sample delicious food, and soak up the lively atmosphere. Entry to the market area is completely free.
In addition to the new Christmas market, the RDS are bringing back some of their other annual festive events. From the family favourite Elf Town to the tradition-lover’s Christmas Concert. And we can’t forget about Funderland, every adrenaline junkie’s favourite, this year with over 15 different rollercoasters and attractions - open well past Christmas till the 11th of January.
- Dates: 15th November - 23rd December for the main market, check the website for individual event times
- Location: The RDS, Ballsbridge
Swords Castle Christmas Market (A Local Favourite)
Looking for a historic setting to replace the Dublin Castle Christmas market? Swords Castle is the perfect alternative. This beloved local market features over 50 traders selling everything from artisan crafts to delicious local food. And the popular Santa's Grotto makes it a big hit with families.
It's the perfect spot for a Christmas afternoon out while supporting local businesses.
- Dates: 28th - 30th November & 6th - 7th December
- Location: Swords Castle
More Festive Markets Worth a Visit
Beyond the big names, Dublin is dotted with smaller markets that are full of character and charm. Ideal if you’re looking to beat the crowds and experience Christmas in Dublin like a local.
Sustainable Christmas Market at the National Botanic Gardens
For a greener Christmas, head to the National Botanic Gardens. This market is your go-to for eco-friendly and sustainable gifts. With over 50 stalls set among the beautiful historic glasshouses, you can find everything from handmade crafts to artisan food, all while enjoying the Winter garden setting.
- Dates: 13th - 14th December
- Location: National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin
The Fumbally Christmas Market
If you’re searching for truly unique, one-of-a-kind gifts, The Fumbally Christmas Market is the place to be. Held indoors in a cosy 18th-century stable, it showcases independent crafters, artists and food producers. It’s the perfect spot to find something special while escaping the winter chill.
- Dates: 5th - 7th December
- Location: The Fumbally Stables, Dublin 8
Wonderlights (A Different Kind of Magic)
While not a traditional market, the Wonderlights light show offers a shining alternative festive experience that’s perfect for families. Hosted at both Marlay Park and Malahide Castle & Gardens this year, it’s a magical walk-through event that transforms both locations into a Winter wonderland.
- Dates: November 14th to early January
- Location: Marlay Park, Rathfarnham and Malahide Castle & Gardens
Looking for an Alternative? Head to Belfast
If you fancy a change of scenery, why not hop on a coach for a festive day trip? The Belfast Christmas Market is a great option. Offering a classic European market experience in the grounds of Belfast City Hall, with countless shopping opportunities, food and drink from around the world and an amazing festive atmosphere.
With such a central location, it's a great spot to explore the rest of what Belfast has to offer. Whether you’re interested in popular spots like the Ulster Museum or the Titanic Quarter, or you need to catch up on some Christmas shopping on Royal Avenue - all this and more are only a short walk away.
Making the trip is completely hassle-free with Aircoach. Our direct 705X service from Dublin to Belfast is comfortable, affordable, and drops you off round the corner from the market at Grand Central Station.
Getting to Dublin Christmas Markets with Aircoach
Leave the car at home and let us handle the journey. Aircoach offers a simple, stress-free way to travel into Dublin city centre, so you can forget about navigating traffic or hunting for parking. Just sit back, relax and save money travelling with Aircoach, rather than more expensive ways to get around.
- From Dublin Airport: Our 700 and 702 routes run frequently, taking you directly from Dublin Airport to the city centre with stops at key locations like O'Connell Street.
- From Cork: Our 704X express service takes you directly from Cork city centre right into the heart of Dublin, saving you time and money on additional transport.
- From Belfast & Derry/L'Derry: Our 705X express service provides a direct link from Derry/L'Derry and Belfast to Dublin city centre.With reliable schedules, comfortable coaches and affordable fares, we take care of the travel so you can get straight to the good bit.
Make Way For the Festive Fun
Even with the cancellation of the Dublin Castle Christmas Market, the city’s festive scene for 2025 is buzzing with exciting new events and beloved local favourites. Whether you’re heading to the grand scale of TwinkleTown and the RDS, the historic charm of Swords Castle or local favourites like Fumbally, there’s a market experience waiting for you.
Forget the driving, focus on the festive fun. Book your trip to the Dublin Christmas Markets with Aircoach and let the adventures begin!