The Smithfield Christmas Market 2024

The Smithfield Christmas Market returned on November 25th and, while it won’t contend with the big European markets, it is a very welcome addition to the city.

The new market boasts Ireland’s first Ice Museum, an ice rink, a Big Wheel for city views, market stalls, and a cozy Nutcracker Snug.

But how does it fare against the likes of the Dublin Castle Christmas Market? Find out below!

The Smithfield Christmas Market

Here’s the need-to-knows about Smithfield’s Christmas Spectacular:

1. Location and Dates

The festivities take place at Smithfield Square from Monday, November 25th, through Thursday, January 2nd.

2. Opening hours

The Smithfield Christmas Market will be open daily from 11am – 9pm.

3. In a nutshell

The Smithfield Christmas Market is back, featuring Ireland’s first Ice Museum, an ice rink, the Big Wheel for city views, and the cozy Nutcracker Snug with an Alpine lodge vibe. Visitors can enjoy artisan food, festive drinks from Fidelity’s market bar, and unique gifts under twinkling lights for a perfect holiday atmosphere.

4. My thoughts + reviews online

I’ll start with what I’m hearing/seeing other people saying – the food/drink/hot chocolate/big wheel are severely overpriced. There’s no atmosphere. It’s feels too busy at times.

I found it just alright, but I wouldn’t go back. And I’m not sure if I’d say to people that it’s worth visiting (just my opinion!).

I’d love to get to a point where, as is the case in many parts of Europe, there are Christmas Markets in Dublin that I look forward to revisiting each year.

With that being said, I’d view the addition of any new festive market as a positive step. With feedback, there’s hope it could improve and become a destination market in the future.

What you’ll find at Smithfield’s Christmas Spectacular

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.

Ireland’s first Ice Museum

Ireland’s very first Ice Museum brings an unforgettable, wintry experience to Smithfield Square.

Crafted to capture the essence of Christmas, it’s filled with intricate, handcrafted ice sculptures that create a magical world of frosty wonder.

The Christmas Market

Set under twinkling lights, the Smithfield Christmas Market will feature red-roof chalets brimming with artisan food, festive drinks, and unique gifts.

Enjoy a mulled wine or warm cider, savor the best local treats, and soak up the holiday atmosphere on the cobblestones of Smithfield Square.

Operated by local favourite, Fidelity, the market bar offers top-notch festive drinks to enjoy throughout your visit.

A big Ice Rink

Regardless of whether you’re an avid skater or a compete newbie, the ice awaits at Smithfield Square. You pick a time slot and tickets cost:

• Adult (Peak): €18+ €2.16 booking fee
• Child (Peak): €13+ €1.56 booking fee
• Family (Peak): €57+ €6.84 booking fee

An even bigger Wheel

The Big Wheel offers a dazzling way to take in Dublin from new heights.

Capture breathtaking, panoramic views of the city – perfect for both day and night.

Nutcracker Snug

Take a break at the cosy Nutcracker Snug, styled like an Alpine lodge.

This picture-perfect stop is a warm and inviting spot amidst the holiday excitement, perfect for recharging before heading back into the festivities.

Other markets in Dublin

There are a number of other Christmas Markets in Dublin scheduled for the 2024 season:

• The Dublin Castle Christmas Market (November 28th – December 18th)
• The Swords Castle Christmas Market (November 29th – December 8th)
• More here