Food Lover? Christmas Craicers has you covered this festive season!
What's better then a festive feast to warm you up from that chilling cold were getting! We've compiled some of the best Christmas foods you can enjoy in Dublin and Galway this Christmas.
Festive Afternoon Tea: Treat yourself to a festive afternoon tea experience at one of Dublin's or Galway's hotels or tea rooms. Enjoy a selection of sandwiches, scones, and sweet treats, all accompanied by a pot of tea or a glass of bubbly. We suggest Dromoland Castle, The G Hotel and Powerscourt Hotel!
Hot Whiskey- Warm up with a glass of Irish Hot whiskey, a popular choice during the holiday season. Luckily Dublin is home to Jameson Distillery, where you can learn all about the the brands rich history sample sample a range of its Irish whiskeys.
Roast Turkey and Ham: What better traditional Irish Christmas dinner than roast turkey and ham. Many restaurants around the cities offer special Christmas menus featuring this classic festive dish. Our top recommendations include Bruxelles, The Red Gap Bar and Restaurant, Fagans, The Cellar Bar and The Old Spot.
Mince Pies: Treat yourself to some mince pies, small pastries filled with a sweet and spicy mixture of dried fruits and spices. They are a popular Christmas treat in Ireland and can be found in bakeries and cafes across the cities. Bread 41, Vanilla Pod Eatery, Farmhouse Café, goyas Bakery and Le Petit Delice offer fantastic freshly baked mince pies which we recommend to enjoy with a nice cup of tea.
Hot Chocolate: Sip on a steaming cup of hot chocolate topped with whipped cream and marshmallows. There are a large variety of places selling festive hot chocolates but we recommend The Lighthouse café Galway, Butlers (in many locations) and Scoop Dublin
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Exploring the Festivity of Christmas Markets in Dublin
As the festive season approaches, Dublin transforms into a winter wonderland, with lights, festive decorations, and the delightful atmosphere of the city. One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit is by visiting the festivity of the Christmas markets that pop up across the city. From traditional crafts to delicous treats, Dublin's Christmas markets offer a magical experience for locals and tourists alike.
1. Botanic Gardens Eco Christmas Craft Makret:
Located at the Botanic Gardens, these Christmas Markets are an excellent place to find unique and handmade gifts. With over 70 stalls, this market showcases the talents of local artisans, designers, and craftspeople. From decorative crafts to handmade jewelry, you'll find something for everyone on your Christmas shopping list. Don't forget to indulge in the delicious street food and warm beverages while enjoying the great outdoors
2. Christmas at the Castle, Dublin Castle:
Step into the historic Dublin Castle and be greeted by a festive atmosphere like no other. This market showcases a wide range of Irish crafts, including pottery, textiles, and woodwork. Enjoy the live music performances, take part in workshops, and savor the delicious food and drinks on offer. Don't forget to explore the castle's beautiful gardens, which are transformed into a winter wonderland during the Christmas season.
2. George's Street Arcade:
Located in the city center, George's Street Arcade is a vibrant hub for independent traders and artists. During the Christmas season, the arcade transforms into a festive market, offering a unique shopping experience. From handmade jewelry to vintage clothing and quirky gifts, you'll find plenty of treasures to take home. Indulge in some tasty treats from the food stalls and soak up the lively atmosphere.
4. Dun Laoghaire Christmas Market:
Located just outside Dublin city center, Dun Laoghaire's Christmas market is worth the short trip. Set against the backdrop of the picturesque harbor, this market has a charming festive atmosphere. Browse through the stalls selling crafts, artisanal food, and unique gifts. Enjoy the festive entertainment, including carol singers and live performances, while taking in the stunning views of the sea
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What better way to get your blood flowing then a day at the racing! Take a look at two unmissable racing events happening this Winter!
Fairyhouse Winter Festival
The Fairyhouse Winter Festival will take place one Saturday the 2nd and Sunday the 3rd of December. This festival will feature live entertainment, excellent food and drink, family fun activities and of course exhilarating horse races across the two days. The national hunt racing at the festival is known to be the highlight of the winter racing calendar with 3 grade one races.
Tickets start at €18 per person, and its worthwhile getting early bird prices now! For more information see:
Winter Festival at Fairyhouse Racecourse
2. Leopardstown Christmas Festival
The Leopardstown Christmas Festival will run from the 26th- 29th of December. The four day festival will also feature national hunt racing with 7 grade 1 one races as well as a variety of live music and entertainment.
Tickets are on sale now, with early bird offers available until November 27th. Children over 12 go free! See below for more information:
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5 places to go for Family Christmas Fun with the Kids
Wondering where to take the kids on those weekends coming up to Christmas? Well we've got you covered!
Wild Lights at Dublin Zoo
Kids are amazed at this immersive experience located in Dublin Zoo. This years theme is The Enchanted Zoo with greetings from a friendly wizard. The Wild Lights will be open from 5pm- 9pm with last entries at 8:00pm Monday to Sunday. Under free also go free!
This miniature town allows children's imaginations to come alive! With miniature shops, cafes, hair and beauty salon, theatre, post office, Garda Station, fire station, hospital and garage, the kids can be sure to have a fun and creative day. Tickets allow children and parents to make use of the town, fairy trails and junior orienteering. Prices start at €11.
See their webpage for more details:
3. Dundrum on Ice
Ice Skating at Dundrum Town Centre offers great fun with the help of experienced teams of ice marshals. The rink also offers food and beverages, festive music and a great atmosphere. Known to be South Dublin's favorite skating experience, they are open Mondays to Fridays from 3 to 8pm and Saturdays and Sundays from 10am to 8pm. Tickets start from €16.50, with family deals available.
Buy tickets now at:
WELCOME TO DUNDRUM ON ICE Proudly brought to you by the Blue Martini Group. book tickets book tickets Dundrum on Ice 12th season: done! No
4. Pantos
Kids and Adults can both marvel at these entertaining shows. See:
Cinderella at The Gaiety Theatre from the 26th of November to the 7th of January
Olly, Polly & all their friends at the Olympia Theatre from the 20th of December to the 7th of January
Treasure Island at the Helix, Glasnevin from the 24th of November to the 14th of January
Rapunzel at Liberty hall Theatre from the 18th of December to the 31st of December
Puss in Boots at the Town Hall, Galway from the 29th of December to the 14th of January
Sammy, Buffy & the Beanstalk at the National Stadium, Dublin from the 12th of December to the 7th of January.
For more information see:
Planning on taking the kids to a christmas Pantomime this year? Find out where all the pantomimes are on around Ireland
5. Elf Town Galway
This 2 hour Christmas Experience will get the little ones buzzing for Santa's arrival, with 3 different buildings taking you all on a magical festive journey with a variety of different activities, ending with a private visit with the Real Santa. Santa provides every child with a special elf town gold toy coin where they can buy a toy in his shop. Children will also get the opportunity to meet with Santa's reindeer. Tickets start at €43.95 for children and €29.95 for adults.
For more information see:
Elf Town Galway is a Christmas grotto experience set over 3 different buildings. Meet Santa, his elves and reindeer on our magical journey t
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What better way to get yourself in the Christmas Spirit than visiting a Christmas Market! This is the perfect opportunity to get started on your Christmas gift shopping whilst delighting in the festive atmosphere. Its recommended to enjoy a soothing hot chocolate or a mulled wine while you explore these festive markets!
Galway Christmas Markets
These aesthetically pleasing markets will begin on Friday the 10th 2023 of November and last all the way until the Sunday the 7th of January 2024. This free market, located in Eyre Square, Galway will have over 50 wooden chalets where you'll be sure to find the perfect gifts. The market will also feature a German Bier Tent, The Big Wheel, Santa's Grotto, a Carousel and other amusements as well as some some tasty artisan food stalls! Be sure to take a ride on Santa's Express Train to see what the market has to offer, at high speed!
For more information see:
Christmas Market Galway, Ireland’s premier Christmas Market is set to take place again this year in Eyre Square, Galway from Nov. 16th to De
Gifted Fair at the RDS
This indoor fair located in the Royal Dublin Society, Ballsbridge will feature a broad range of Irish Handmade crafts and food producers. This fair will be from the Wednesday the 6th of December until Sunday the 10th of December. Your guaranteed to find some unique gifts at this huge fair. This is a ticketed event and tickets can be bought online or at the box office at the fair. Adult tickets are €12, with discounts available for OAPs, and children under 16 go free!
For more information:
The Gifted Fair is an annual event held at the RDS Dublin every year to kick start Christmas gifting season. The event is attended by all th
Christmas at the Castle
This wildly popular event usually takes place around the start of December and carry's on up until a few days before Christmas. The markets located in Dublin Castle, Dame Street often host a variety artisan craft stalls, festive music acts, a vintage carousel, festive food and drink and more!
Although these markets are yet to be announced, you can be sure tickets for this will sell out quick and fast, so be sure to keep an eye out on their website for details.
Discover the historic heart of Dublin. Open seven days a week. Dublin Castle is a key tourist attraction as well as a major government compl
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This will be your go to blog to find inspiration for things to see and do this Christmas in Dublin and Galway! These two locations have arguably the best options for Christmassy festivities and are sure to get you in the Christmas Spirit. Keep your eyes peeled for some Christmas inspiration!
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