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Christmas in Ireland
From carol singers and Christmas markets to the warm embrace of a cosy fireside, Christmas in Ireland is brimming with festive cheer
The most wonderful time of the year? We think so! And in Ireland we celebrate the season in style. Think bustling streets filled with festive shoppers, hot drinks enjoyed in front of a roaring turf fire and carol singers belting out your favourite Christmas tunes.
But if you REALLY want to experience Christmas in Ireland, dive in! Brave the freezing waters at Dublin’s Forty Foot swimming spot for the traditional Christmas morning swim. Find the perfect gift at one of the island's many Christmas markets and show off your language skills with a breezy "Nollaig Shona Duit" in Irish or “Ablythe Yuletide” in Ulster-Scots (Happy Christmas to you!). At Christmas, Ireland is one big party... and everyone's invited!
©️ Shutterstock
Christmas lights in Derry~Londonderry
Irish Christmas traditions
We’ve got some very Irish customs that are sure to get you into the Christmas spirit…
©️ Shutterstock
Irish Christmas highlights
Let’s start with the famous buskers who perform for Christmas shoppers on Dublin’s Grafton Street. Musicians like Bono, Hozier and Glen Hansard usually swing by and put on a show to support charities.
Then there’s Wren’s Day on 26 December when groups of wrenboys dressed up in paint and straw go from door to door, singing, dancing and collecting donations. Lend them a few coins to stave off bad luck in the coming year.
Then to mark the end of the Christmas period, there’s “Women’s Christmas” (Nollaig na mBan) on 6 January. On this day, the women of the house traditionally get a rest after looking after everyone during the festive season and the men take on the household duties.
Christmas pudding ©️ Shutterstock
A Christmas feast from Ireland
From smoked salmon and soda bread to spiced beef, Ireland tastes great at Christmas.
Coming home
The most important thing about Christmas in Ireland isn’t the presents, the traditions or even the food. It’s the chance for friends and family to come together. And this is where the Irish pub comes into its own.
Over the festive season, the pub is pretty much the centre of small villages, towns and even cities, and is usually bursting with reuniting friends and families wrapping hands around hot whiskeys and cosying up beside the fire. It’s off the charts for Christmas spirit.
©️ Shutterstock
Derry~Londonderry
Christmas lights in front of the Guild Hall
Christmas markets: 5 of the best
Christmas retreats around Ireland
Great places to enjoy a festive break on the island of Ireland
The Bushmills Inn
The Bushmills Inn is a luxury Hotel with an AA Rosette restaurant in the heart of Northern Ireland’s Causeway Coast. One of Ireland’s most well known luxurious hotels, The Bushmills Inn boasts open turf fires, gas lights and hidden nooks & crannies.
Bushmills
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Bishop's Gate Hotel
The exquisite Grade B1 listed Bishop’s Gate Hotel is perfectly positioned within the historic city walls in the heart of Derry City’s Cathedral Quarter. An iconic landmark with a unique history, the hotel is an intimate urban oasis featuring 31 luxurious guestrooms.
Londonderry
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Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate
Majestically rising from the still waters of Lough Corrib and dating back to the 18th Century, the 5 star Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate is where old-world charm meets contemporary elegance.
Galway
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Culloden Estate and Spa
Standing high on the wooded slopes of the Holywood hills, overlooking Belfast Lough and the County Antrim coastline, is the magnificent Culloden Estate and Spa, one of the most prestigious hotels in Northern Ireland. Hotel availability for The Open 2025 | 16–21 July.
Holywood
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The Merchant Hotel
Situated in the heart of Belfast city centre's historic Cathedral Quarter, The award-winning 5 AA Red star Merchant Hotel is a harmonious blend of Victorian grandeur and Art Deco inspired sleek modernity with award-winning restaurants and cocktail bar, a tranquil spa and rooftop gym and hot tub.
Belfast
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Faithlegg House Hotel
Faithlegg Hotel is an award-winning 4 star hotel set in beautiful grounds with its own 18-hole golf course right on the doorstep.
Waterford
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Bellinter House Hotel & Spa
Bellinter House Hotel & Spa, a countryside retreat. Offering you the comfort and elegance of a luxury boutique hotel. Bellinter House Hotel & Spa invites you to relax and indulge yourself in the heart of the Boyne Valley.
Meath
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The Killarney Park
A member of The Leading Hotels of the World, and superbly located in the heart of Killarney Town, The Killarney Park is renowned for both its elegance and warm welcome. It is the perfect choice for the active adventure seeker or those wanting to relax and unwind. The team at The Killarney Park truly do understand the art of hospitality and offer a warmth beyond the smile.
Kerry
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Lough Eske Castle
Lough Eske is a restored castle that dates back to the 15th century and boasts a five star rating. The castle has 96 lavish guest rooms, spa, dining options and an excellent location for exploring the beauty of County Donegal.
Donegal
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