Things to Do in Ireland in November
The festive season is just around the corner! If you're planning a trip to Ireland in November, you'll find plenty of magical ways to embrace the season. With cooler temperatures, unpredictable weather and darker evenings, it's a good idea to wrap up warm, pack plenty of layers and plan a few cosy activities along the way.
November also marks the beginning of one of the most magical times of year in Ireland. Towns and cities come alive with twinkling Christmas lights, beautifully decorated shop windows and festive markets, creating a wonderful seasonal atmosphere. Whether you're visiting Ireland for a festive getaway, a family holiday or a trip home for Christmas, there's plenty to see and do.
To help you make the most of your visit, we've rounded up some of the best things to do in Ireland in November, from exploring Christmas markets and magical light displays to enjoying cosy Irish pubs and unforgettable family experiences.
1. Explore Ireland's Magical Christmas Markets
Ireland's Christmas markets are growing in popularity, and it's easy to see why! Our little island is home to a wealth of talented local creatives, producing everything from handmade soaps and artisan foods to beautiful Christmas decorations and festive treats. Visiting one of Ireland's many Christmas markets is a wonderful way to experience the best of Irish craftsmanship, local produce and festive spirit.
Bigger, brighter and more magical than ever, Christmas markets in Ireland offer something for everyone. Expect delicious festive food from around the world, handcrafted decorations, unique artisan gifts, ice skating and plenty of family-friendly entertainment.
Wander through Santa's Grotto, enjoy a spin on the Ferris wheel, browse handmade treasures or warm up with a glass of mulled wine, craft beer or an indulgent hot chocolate. Whether you're visiting with family, friends or simply soaking up the festive atmosphere, an Irish Christmas market is a lovely addition to your November or December itinerary.
Some of Ireland's Christmas Markets to Visit
Dublin is full of festive cheer during the Christmas season, with several events and markets taking place across the city.
- Smithfield Square: November 20th – December 31st, 2026
- St Patrick's Park: November 27th – December 23rd, 2026
- Everwinter, RDS: November 25th, 2026 – January 3rd, 2027
Cork – Christmas Markets & Corkmas
Head to Cork city to enjoy Corkmas, with festive celebrations, seasonal events and Christmas market experiences.
- Bishop Lucey Park: Selected dates from November 15th – December 31st
- Marina Market: Weekends throughout December
Galway – Galway Christmas Market
Experience the festive atmosphere in the heart of Galway at Eyre Square, with market stalls, seasonal treats and plenty of Christmas cheer.
- Eyre Square: November 6th – December 22nd, 2026
Belfast – Belfast Christmas Market
Visit the beautiful grounds of Belfast City Hall, transformed into a festive Christmas market filled with international food, unique gifts and seasonal favourites.
- Belfast City Hall: November 14th – December 22nd, 2026
You can also discover festive markets and seasonal celebrations in Kilkenny and Swords, each offering their own taste of Christmas in Ireland.
2. Discover Ireland's Spectacular Christmas Light Displays
Brighten up a chilly evening with one of Ireland's spectacular Christmas light displays. Perfect for families, couples or a festive night out with friends, these enchanting experiences bring the magic of Christmas to life.
Wander through illuminated trails, admire dazzling light installations and immerse yourself in magical festive scenes. From sparkling woodland displays to larger-than-life light creations, there are plenty of Christmas light shows in Ireland to delight visitors of all ages.
Some magical experiences to add to your list include:
- Wild Lights at Dublin Zoo, Dublin – Explore an enchanting world of illuminated displays and colourful lanterns, creating a magical evening adventure for all ages.
- Wonderlights – Discover spectacular light trails and immersive displays at selected locations, including Malahide Castle and Cork.
- Land of Light at the Irish National Stud, Kildare – Enjoy a magical illuminated trail through the beautiful gardens, transformed into a festive wonderland.
Whether you're looking for a family-friendly adventure or a little festive magic after dark, these Christmas light displays are a wonderful way to make the most of the season.
3. Enjoy a Magical Christmas at Luggwoods
For a truly magical festive experience, head to Christmas at Luggwoods in Saggart, County Dublin. Step into an enchanted woodland filled with twinkling lights, festive characters and Christmas surprises around every corner.
Hop aboard the Luggwoods Express as it winds through the forest, post your letter to Santa, visit Mrs Claus's cosy cabin and enjoy a very special meeting with Santa himself. It's a wonderful family Christmas experience, filled with festive fun and magical memories for little ones and grown-ups alike!
Running from November 29th to December 23rd, Luggwoods is a lovely way to bring a little extra Christmas magic to your visit to Ireland.
Discover Christmas at Luggwoods
4. Warm Up in a Cosy Irish Pub
As the evenings grow colder, there's nothing quite like stepping into a cosy Irish pub to soak up a little festive atmosphere. Picture a crackling fire, twinkling Christmas decorations, traditional Irish music and a perfectly poured pint of Guinness.
Whether you're warming up with a hot drink or enjoying a lively evening with the locals, visiting a traditional Irish pub is the perfect way to experience the warmth, hospitality and charm of an Irish Christmas.
Looking for the perfect pint? Discover some of the best spots across the country in our guide to The Best Pints of Guinness in Ireland.
5. Step into the Magic of Elf Town
Make magical Christmas memories with a visit to Elf Town, a wonderful 90-minute immersive festive experience perfect for the whole family. Embark on an enchanting journey through a magical forest, explore Jack Frost's Ice Cave and visit the Elf Town Toy Shop, with plenty of festive photo opportunities along the way.
The highlight for little ones is a private visit with Santa himself! You can also pick up some special festive memorabilia to remember your adventure.
Running from November 14th to December 24th, Elf Town is a lovely way to bring a little extra Christmas magic to your visit to Ireland.
Take a Little Piece of Ireland Home with You
No trip to Ireland would be complete without picking up a few special souvenirs and gifts to remember your visit. While you're here, don't forget to pop into your local Carrolls Irish Gifts store and discover a wonderful selection of authentic Irish gifts and festive favourites.
From cosy Aran knitwear and delicious Irish chocolate treats to iconic Guinness gifts, Celtic jewellery and Irish keepsakes, you'll find plenty of treasures to bring a little piece of Ireland home with you. Whether you're shopping for loved ones or treating yourself, there's something special for everyone, browse our gifting guide for to find the perfect Irish gift.
Your guide To The Perfect Irish Gift
Make the Most of Christmas in Ireland
November is a wonderful time to experience Ireland as it begins to embrace the festive season. From exploring Christmas markets and dazzling light displays to enjoying traditional Irish pubs and magical family adventures, there's no shortage of things to do in Ireland in November.
So wrap up warm, soak up the festive atmosphere and enjoy everything that makes an Irish Christmas so special. And don't forget to bring a little piece of Ireland home with you!
