TwinkleTown is officially returning to Smithfield in 2026 and, with the Dublin Castle Christmas Market postponed until 2027, there’s likely to be a lot more attention on it this year.
I’m glad to see it returning, but it’s worth managing your expectations if you’re visiting primarily for the market. Last year’s event leaned heavily into the ice rink, Ferris Wheel, fairground rides and family entertainment, with the Christmas market playing a smaller role.
Dublin has been crying out for a large, traditional-style Christmas market for a long time and Smithfield has the space and location to deliver one. Here’s what we know so far.
Smithfield’s TwinkleTown 2026
Photos via TwinkleTown
Here’s the need-to-knows about Smithfield’s TwinkleTown:
1. Location and dates
If TwinkleTown follows the same schedule as last year, it is expected to run in Smithfield Square from late November 2026 through to early January 2027.
2. Opening hours
If opening hours remain unchanged, TwinkleTown is likely to operate from late morning through to late evening, with longer hours at weekends. Entry is free, but tickets are required for attractions like the ice rink and Santo Panto.
3. In a nutshell
TwinkleTown is pitched to be a one-stop Christmas experience, combining festive entertainment, culture, and family fun. Highlights include a super-size ice rink, a family panto, a twinkling Christmas market, the cosy Twinkle Tavern for winter warmers, vintage fairground rides, a Ferris Wheel, and live performances in the Spiegeltent.
4. Have realistic expectations
If it follows the same format as last year, TwinkleTown is better thought of as a Christmas event than a traditional Christmas market. The ice rink, rides and family attractions are a big part of the experience, while the market itself was relatively small last year (something all of the Christmas Markets in Dublin have in common! Hopefully that balance shifts over time. I’d love to see more wooden chalets, independent traders, food and drink stalls and the kind of atmosphere that makes the great European Christmas markets worth travelling for.
What you’ll find at the Christmas market in Smithfield
Here’s what last year’s markets looked like
Supported by Dublin City Council, the Smithfield Christmas Market is set to become one of the more popular things to do in Dublin this Christmas.
From the twinkling lights of the Big Wheel to the warm Nutcracker Snug, here’s what to expect.
The Spiegeltent
The cultural heart of TwinkleTown is the Spiegeltent – a space for music, theatre, and local performances.
This is the festival’s main indoor venue, hosting live music, workshops and creative nights throughout the season.
- Hugh Lane Gallery After Hours: A one-night creative takeover with live music, wreath-making, mosaics, sustainable crafting and life drawing
- The Whileaways: Three-part harmonies, rich folk storytelling and a set that lands best in an intimate venue like this
- Cobblestone Collective: Expect a raw, session-style night from musicians tied to Dublin’s best-known trad pub
- Alternative Dublin Drink & Draw: A relaxed art party with canvases, materials, guidance, spot prizes and a festive theme
- Christmas Table Centrepiece Workshop: Hands-on festive crafting with expert guidance, mulled wine/hot chocolate and all materials included
- The Tiny Quartet: Violin, guitar and double bass reworking classical pieces and pop/rock favourites into warm, cinematic arrangements
Santo Panto and the Magic Present Machine
A brand-new 20-minute family show created especially for TwinkleTown. It mixes the fun of a panto with a Santa experience as kids help unravel The Magic Present Machine.
Tickets cost €5 plus booking fee, and each child receives a small gift from Santa.
The Ice Rink
Here’s what last year’s ice rink looked like. Via the Christmas Spectacular
The centrepiece of TwinkleTown – the super-size rink returns with early bird tickets available for a limited time. Whether it’s a family day out or a date night, this one’s likely to draw big crowds.
The Christmas Market
Here’s what last year’s market looked like. Via the Christmas Spectacular
The Smithfield Christmas Market is set to be a mix of twinkling chalets selling festive food, drink, and handmade gifts. Expect a brighter layout this year with more emphasis on atmosphere and visuals.
The Twinkle Tavern
Replacing last year’s Nutcracker Snug, the Twinkle Tavern offers hot drinks and winter cocktails in a warm Alpine-style lodge.
Upstairs area is 21+ and limited to 50 people. The perfect spot for mulled wine, hot chocolate, or cocktails.
Ferris Wheel & Vintage Fairground
Here’s what last year’s big wheel looked like. Via the Christmas Spectacular
Classic rides, a carousel, and the return of the Big Wheel for city views. Great for photos and a quick nostalgia hit.
Other markets in Dublin
Note: The Dublin Castle market is no longer taking place
There are a number of other Christmas Markets in Dublin scheduled for the 2025 season:
- The Dublin Castle Christmas Market
- The Swords Castle Christmas Market
- More here
Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent much of the last 13 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 40 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries. Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.