Spending Christmas at home is wonderful. You can decorate just the way you like, you can maintain the same traditions every year and you can be around those you love. However, spending Christmas with your family away from home can spice up the holidays in the best way possible. Maybe you’re looking for a trip in the lead up the big day either. Whatever it is you’re looking for, there are many different options of places to take your celebration, which means you will definitely find the right one for you. Here are some of the best Christmas destinations in Ireland.
The country’s capital is a hub for festivities around the holidays. Almost every street in Dublin City is covered in twinkling lights throughout December, which is the perfect background for last-minute shopping or a winter stroll. There are also many things to do while in the county for Christmas. Funderland is the country’s largest winter theme park and sets up shop in South Dublin for a number of weeks. There are also plenty of pantomimes at theatres around the city for a family fun evening. A winter swim is also a popular event for the more adventurous people among us.
Perhaps you’re looking to escape the madness that is Dublin City for the holidays. Travelling to Galway for Christmas is a great option to do just that. Not only will you relax in the west of Ireland, but there are plenty of things to keep you and your family busy. The Galway Christmas Market has a wide range of gifts, crafts and food for sale, as well as a number of street food and drinks stalls to keep you warm as you browse. The city has plenty of buskers and carolers to set the festive mood.
Cork is a particularly festive spot and has a lot to offer both visitors and residents alike. It also hosts an impressive Christmas market, complete with a Ferris wheel and choirs. Beautiful light displays can be found all across the city from November onwards. There are a number of festive theatre productions, pantomimes and ballet to attend. There will never be a dull moment when spending Christmas in Cork.
When thinking of Christmas destinations in Ireland, Kilkenny may not immediately spring to mind. However, this charming city has plenty to offer. There is a large ice skating rink every year for those looking for some action, as well as bungee trampolines and a rodeo reindeer. Santa resides in a grotto in the centre around big-name shops for some last-minute shopping. There are plenty of independent boutiques to attend as well as a Christmas market. Kilkenny hosts comedy shows and concerts of carol singers, pantomimes and other performers. As the city is the home to the finest homemade chocolate in the whole of Ireland, be sure to stock up on delicious treats and sample everything you can!
Where is on your list for festive destinations in Ireland? Let us know down in the comments!
