What's in Smithfield Christmas Market?

The 2025/2026 Smithfield Christmas Market, known as "TwinkleTown," runs from November 28, 2025, to January 4, 2026, featuring a large ice rink, vintage funfair, Ferris wheel, and a Spiegeltent. Located in Dublin’s Smithfield Square, it offers festive food stalls, a "Twinkle Tavern" for mulled wine, and artisan gift chalets, with free entry.

Is Smithfield Christmas market good?

Smithfield Christmas Market

Within Dublin's city centre, we arrive at the Smithfield neighbourhood, which boasts one of the most beloved Christmas markets among locals, thanks to its fantastic location, unique atmosphere, and highly acclaimed organization last year.

Is Smithfield Christmas market free?

It's free to enter and pack of festive fun including a vintage fun fair, ice rink, local crafts and gifts, food and drink stalls, Spiegel tent and even a panto.

What do you find at a Christmas market?

Find locally handmade ornaments, crafts, jewellery and even a Christmas cake or two. You can browse artisan gifts, including handmade homewares, textiles and artwork. For something a bit different, why not visit a craft fair? At many of these you can warm up from the cold weather with mulled wine and a mince pie.

What time does Smithfield Christmas market start?

Running daily from 11 am to 9 pm, this enchanting Christmas market promises something for everyone — from traditional wooden chalets serving festive favourites and artisan gifts to twinkling lights, live entertainment, and that unmistakable holiday atmosphere.

Smithfield Christmas Market: Full Walkthrough & Highlights- Dublin, Ireland #europe #christmas #xmas

Is it worth going to Smithfield Market?

Smithfield- a must-do experience

Fascinating experience but not for the faint hearted. Definitely worth seeing at 3-4am at its busiest. Go with a clear idea of what you want to buy as the choice & quantities are overwhelming. Vendors can be abrupt- avoid no.

Is Dublin a good place to visit for Christmas?

Christmas is full of festivities in Dublin Ireland. Though the weather can be a little rainy, the lovely Irish people will greet you with sunny smiles and holiday joy.

What's the best Christmas market to visit?

There's no single "best" Christmas market, as it depends on what you seek, but top contenders often cited are Strasbourg, France (oldest/capital of Christmas), Vienna, Austria (elegance, city hall market), Cologne, Germany (Cathedral setting, ice rink), Bruges, Belgium (fairytale), and the Winchester Cathedral Market, UK (highly rated for quality). For unique vibes, consider Germany's traditional markets, London's varied options (Covent Garden, Winter Wonderland), or smaller, charming spots like Castlerotto, Italy. 

How to dress for a Christmas market?

Think oversized coats, statement accessories, and chunky knits that are easy, effortless, and perfect for whatever the weather throws at you. For a chic outfit for the Christmas markets, layer a chunky knit over leather-look trousers, finishing the look with a long wool coat and heeled boots.

Are Christmas markets worth it?

You can find really cool stuff there, I once bought a wreath made of dried fruit that smells like Christmas for my Dad. People still go to the markets for some Christmas spirit and whimsy. They are a nice way to get into the Christmas spirit and they make for a nice day out with family or friends.

What is Smithfield Market famous for?

Smithfield is London's historic meat market – and an area that's witnessed both public executions and the excitement of Bartholomew Fair. Now it's home to London Museum. Smithfield livestock market in 1811, 50 years before it became a wholesale meat market.

Why is the Smithfield Market closing?

In a surprising turn of events, the world-famous meat and fish markets might not actually be closing down for good. Phew. The City of London Corporation voted to withdraw its support for the 850-year-old markets in November 2024, meaning they would have to shut forever by 2028.

Can anyone shop at Smithfield Market?

Yes, absolutely! Anyone can shop at London's historic Smithfield Market (and Manchester's New Smithfield Market), not just trade buyers like restaurants and butchers, but the general public can buy meat, poultry, fish, and produce, often at better prices, though you'll usually need to buy in bulk and be prepared for an early start. 

What day is Smithfield Market on?

The market at Smithfield is open MONDAY to FRIDAY MORNINGS from Midnight to 7am but is closed on Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holidays. Although some selling takes place until mid-morning, to see the market at its best and find the full range of stalls open, visitors and buyers should arrive well before 7am.

Do you have to pay into Smithfield Christmas market?

When: Nov 28th – Jan 4th Where: Smithfield Square Dublin Loves Christmas (RDS, Ballsbridge) The biggest new addition! This massive event features a full-size ice rink, an Observation Wheel, and market stalls (entry is FREE!). (Note: You pay for the rides/attractions).

Which is the best Christmas market in Germany?

Germany offers many top Christmas markets, with Nuremberg (Christkindlesmarkt) known for tradition and prune men, Dresden (Striezelmarkt) for being the oldest and famous Stollen, and Cologne for its stunning cathedral backdrop; other favorites include Berlin (variety), Munich (classic Bavarian), Aachen (pastries), and Düsseldorf (multiple themed markets). The best choice depends on preference for big city buzz vs. fairytale charm, medieval themes (Esslingen), or unique regional crafts and foods like gingerbread (Lebkuchen) and mulled wine (Glühwein).
 

What is the 3-3-3 rule for outfits?

The "333 rule" in clothing refers to two popular minimalist fashion concepts: the viral TikTok trend of using 3 tops, 3 bottoms, and 3 shoes to create numerous outfits (9 items total) for styling practice, and the more extensive Project 333, where you select 33 items (including clothes, shoes, and accessories) to wear for three months, excluding essentials like underwear, workout gear, and sleepwear, to simplify your wardrobe and reduce decision fatigue. Both methods focus on versatility, quality over quantity, and creating a functional capsule wardrobe.

How much cash to bring to the German Christmas market?

Take cash!

One good way to stick to your budget is by taking cash and only spending what you have. You could budget around €30 to €50 for each market, which should be enough to buy drinks, bratwurst and other snacks. For food you can expect to pay around €3 to €6 per beer or wurst.

Can I wear jeans to a Christmas party?

For a smart casual Christmas party, jeans are perfectly acceptable if you choose a dark-wash pair (indigo or black) free from rips or distressing. Pair them with a floaty printed blouse and elevate the look with a blazer to make sure you're the guest of honour.

What is the most Christmassy city in Europe?

Berlin, Germany. It's official – Berlin takes first prize as the most festive city to celebrate the holidays in Europe.

What is the most magical Christmas town in the world?

Rovaniemi, Finland (Santa Claus Village)

Often called the best Christmas town in the world. Village Inspiration: Snowy rooftops, log cabins, Santa's Workshop.

Where is the most beautiful Christmas market in the world?

CNN named Rathausplatz the most beautiful Christmas market in the world for 2025, and honestly? They got it right. After visiting 100+ Christmas markets across Europe, I can tell you exactly why this one earned the title: ✨ That 200-heart LED tree that makes everyone stop and stare.

What not to do in Ireland as a tourist?

As a tourist in Ireland, avoid mocking the accent, using phrases like "top o' the mornin'," claiming 100% Irish heritage, or ordering "Irish Car Bombs" in pubs; also, don't assume everyone drinks, disrespect sensitive topics (politics/religion/The Troubles), confuse Ireland with the UK, or only visit Dublin, remembering to dress for variable weather, respect local customs (like buying rounds), and explore beyond main sights.
 

What is the most Christmassy place in Ireland?

📍 Waterford City

As Ireland's largest Christmas festival, Winterval offers ice skating, light shows, Santa's grotto, and a bustling market filled with delicious street food.