The Smithfield Christmas Market relaunched last year and, while it didn’t come close to the big European markets, it was still a welcome addition to the city.
For 2025, it’s back with a brand-new name – TwinkleTown – and a total revamp. Expect a mix of festive attractions including a new family panto, an ice rink, Ferris wheel, vintage fairground, Christmas market and the cosy Twinkle Tavern.
But how does it fare against the likes of the Dublin Castle Christmas Market? Find out below!
Smithfield’s TwinkleTown 2025
Here’s the need-to-knows about Smithfield’s TwinkleTown:
1. Location and dates
TwinkleTown takes place in Smithfield Square, running from Friday, November 28th, 2025 to Sunday, January 4th, 2026.
2. Opening hours
The Christmas market in Smithfield is open 11am – 9pm Monday to Friday and 10am – 9pm on 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
Last year’s relaunch had potential but missed the mark with overpriced food and drink, little atmosphere, and a layout that felt chaotic at times.
I’m hoping this second relaunch gives it a proper identity and a bit of magic. The addition of cultural events, a proper panto, and a revamped layout sounds promising.
With that said, based on the many underwhelming Christmas Markets in Dublin, I’d recommend to visit with realistic expectations, and hopefully it’ll surprise us all!
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.
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. Shows run weekends from Nov 29th and daily from Dec 20 – 23, 10am – 7pm.
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
Don’t fancy the Twinkle Tavern? Try one of these festive pubs!
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.
The Spiegeltent
The cultural heart of TwinkleTown – a space for music, theatre, and local performances. The full lineup will be announced closer to launch.
Other markets in Dublin
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.