If you’re spending a chunk of time in Dublin during the 2025 festive season, you will find that there is lots on offer! Locals and visitors alike can enjoy the delights of the Irish capital, a welcoming city where the festive cheer is always present.

Read on to find out how to get in the Christmas spirit in Dublin this year, with a range of activities at your fingertips.

The Wild Kaleidoscope Lights at Dublin Zoo

Dublin Zoo’s wild lights display is always worth a visit, but 2025 promises to deliver the most exciting display yet. An ideal activity for families, you can explore over a dozen different kaleidoscopic zones and cast your eyes over one of the biggest lanterns in Europe.

Even if you’ve visited before, this event features new and exciting exhibits every year. There is plenty of time to make the trip, with the Wild Lights staying at the zoo from the 6th of November to the 31st of January.

Book your tickets today! Adult entry is €26, and children aged 1-15 are €21.50, with free entry for infants.

DoDublin Christmas Bus Tour

This bus tour has proven to be a huge success since its inception two years ago. It will run every Saturday and Sunday from the 29th of November to the 20th of December and is an exciting way of seeing a lot of Dublin’s festive displays in a short time.

The bus will take you to Samuel Beckett Bridge, College Green, and O’Connell Street, just to name a few! You will be treated to an award-winning tour guide during a 70-minute trip, along with jolly Christmas carols along the way.

For adults and children, tickets cost €20.

Christmas by Candlelight Concert at St Patrick’s Cathedral

The stunning St Patrick’s Cathedral is definitely worth a visit during the 2025 Dublin festive season, with the return of the Christmas by Candlelight concert shows. Come along to hear your favourite Christmas tunes sung by West End singers, including “O Holy Night” and “Winter Wonderland”.

Shows start at 8 pm and will be hosted on the following dates:

  • Wednesday the 3rd of December.
  • Thursday the 4th of December.
  • Wednesday the 10th of December.
  • Thursday the 11th of December.
  • Wednesday the 17th of December.

Tickets start at €35, with VIP seating costing €50.

Christmas Market at Dublin Castle

Hosted in the courtyard with the breathtaking view of Dublin Castle behind it, this Christmas market is a must-see! You will find over 30 alpine-style stalls, with various handmade decorations and gourmet snacks on offer. There is a range of food available, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.

You can visit the market between the 28th of November and the 18th of December. It will open from 12 pm to 9 pm.

Entry is free.

Ice Skating at Millennium Park

Get your ice skates on and enjoy a trip down to Millennium Park next to Blanchardstown Centre, right behind the McDonald’s Drive-Thru. Whether you’re an experienced or first-time skater, this is a fantastic opportunity to add to your festive experience in Dublin. You also have plenty of time to tick this activity off, with the rink arriving on the 14th of November and staying put until the 1st of February!

Ticket prices vary depending on group size:

  • Adult- €21
  • U18- €19
  • Family of three- €54
  • Family of four- €68
  • Family of five- €81
  • Groups of 15+- €18 pp

Visit Badbobs

Among your bus tours and markets, make some time to visit us!

Badbobs hosts live music every day of the week, with lively DJ sets held at the weekends. Our bar features a ground floor, first floor, and second floor bar, along with a cocktail bar and rooftop terrace. Come along for a quiet drink and a bit of food, or hire out an entire section if you’re planning on hosting your Christmas party in Dublin.

With plenty of cosy bar areas and a tasty food and drinks menu, we’ve got something for everyone at Badbobs!