Christmas at the Castle returns: Experience the magic of Christmas at Dublin Castle

The Office of Public Works (OPW) is pleased to welcome visitors from today (6 December) to the magical Christmas at the Castle, a festive Christmas market in the historic courtyards of Dublin Castle presented in partnership with Dublin City Council.

This year, the Christmas market will run from Wednesday 6 December until Tuesday 19 December, entry is free to all and no tickets are required.

From midday until 9pm each day, the Castle’s historic upper courtyard will transform into a little village of traditional alpine market stalls selling an array of decorative crafts and inspiring gift ideas along with mouth-watering treats.

Please note the time of last admissions to the market is at 8.30pm.

Visitors to Christmas at the Castle can indulge in traditional fare by artisan producers, soak up the festive atmosphere and enjoy the vintage funfair on site. Evening music performances by choral groups will add to the Christmas atmosphere and get visitors into the festive spirit.

As well as this, visitors have the added bonus of access as self-guided visitors to the beautifully decorated State Apartments of Dublin Castle and the Neapolitan Crib in the Chapel Royal. No guided tours available in conjunction with the market dates and times.

Speaking ahead of the opening of Christmas at the Castle today, Minister of State with responsibility for the Office of Public Works, Patrick O’Donovan, said:

“We are delighted to partner with Dublin City Council again this year for the return of the incredibly popular Christmas at the Castle. We are hoping for bumper numbers this year, as tickets are no longer required for access and entry remains free to all. This market has become a destination for families and friends over the festive season, with visitors from all over the country coming to soak up the atmosphere and get in the mood for Christmas.”

Lord Mayor of Dublin Daithí de Róiste said:

“It’s great to see the Christmas market back and thriving. Dublin Castle is the perfect destination for people to gather and browse the stalls, have a drink and listen to some quality music. Be they local or visiting – everyone is welcome to our fair city; I hope it continues to give local traders a boost and I’m really looking forward to calling in again over the festive season."

People can contact info@arcana.ie for more information about the market.

Please also note:

no parking is permitted on the grounds, active travel is encouraged
capacity will be monitored, so there may be queues during busy periods
the yard is accessible, but there are cobblestones
entrance for the public is through the lower courtyard, via Palace Street
exit for the public is via Castle Street
the event is subject to license by the authorities
cashless transactions are preferred on site

For media queries contact pressoffice@opw.ie

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