Christmas Festival Market at Dublin Castle
Christmas has returned to Dublin Castle with all the fun of the fair. Now in its sixth year the castle’s historic grounds have been transformed for the season. The winter wonderland is created with dozens of Christmas Trees and Lights that lead from the market entrance to the courtyard proper. There is plenty of food on offer from the various stalls, both sweet and savoury and plenty of seating. You also have a number of bars to enjoy that special winter warmer with beverages available for all ages. As well as the food and drink there are various stalls offering a festive array such as spa treatment kits, jewellery, beautiful hand made book covers with a mystical theme, scarves, hats and other various craft pieces to inspire that special Christmas gift.
Also located in the courtyard is a vintage carousel which is quite a large apparatus and looks spectacular in the market setting. This along with the outdoor market includes a Spiegel style marquee with various performances and items. An additional indoor craft market will run from 13th to the 15th December. There is plenty of friendly stewards and security and the music level is at a pleasant volume without being annoying. Children must be accompanied by adults and only service animals allowed on the location. The market opens from 12 noon until 9pm and entrance is free and non-ticketed. Included in the offer is the opportunity to visit and see for free the 18th century State Apartments of the castle and the Chapel Royal which houses a Neopolitan crib for the festivities. I’ve been to the market twice and really enjoyed it. The Christmas Festival Market at Dublin Caste will finish up on Wednesday 18th December so if it is your fancy you still have time to visit and have some festive fun.
