Happy Holidays to All! Christmastime in Dublin.

Season’s Greetings all!

Dublin also has a very special place in my heart because it’s my home town and it’s where The Irish Store lives too! And with Christmas nearly upon us I thought it would be nice to take a festive trip around the capital. The city looks so gorgeous at this time of the year and the atmosphere is really something. So let’s get started!

Christmastime In Dublin

1. Christchurch Cathedral

Christchurch Cathedral is set in the heart of medieval Dublin. The first cathedral was built on this site sometime around 1028 on elevated ground above the Viking settlement at Wood Quay. Extensive renovations took place in the 19th century restoring much of it’s medieval Gothic design. Inside you can visit the fantastic Dublinia exhibition charting Dublin’s medieval past.  Then here’s the intriguing 12th century crypt. As well as being the oldest crypt in Ireland, it is also the city’s oldest surviving structure. There you can see priceless relics and treasures and the mummified cat and rat, know locally as Tom and Gerry! At this time of year the crypt also hosts a wonderful Christmas market.

2. The GPO

The GPO is one of Dublin’s most iconic buildings and is most famous for being the the focal point of the 1916 Easter Rising. It dominates Dublin’s O Connell Street (which also happens to be the widest street in Europe!) and is situated on the corner of Dublin’s bustling Henry Street which really comes alive at this time of year. I always make sure I go to the GPO to post my Christmas cards every year just to soak up the atmosphere. They always put on a great festive display that the kids just love and in December there’s lunchtime carols to really get you in the mood!

3. Trinity College

Time to go over to the south side of the city and visit Dublin’s Trinity College. Founded in 1592, it covers 47 acres in the heart of the city. Notable attendees include Oscar Wilde, Johnathon Swift and Samuel Beckett. It’s lovely to wander around it’s cobbled grounds and get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, especially at this time of year. Taking a stroll through Parliament Square and around College Park is a great way to take some time out. A visit to the Old Library to see the iconic Book of Kells is an absolute must.

4. Grafton Street

Let’s join the hustle and bustle again as we step out of Trinity College and onto Grafton Street. If you’re looking for festive atmosphere then there’s nothing like Dublin’s most famous shopping street. Apart from the great stores, the lights are enchanting and the wonderful assortment of buskers and carol singers are sure to get you into the holiday spirit!

5. Carols at St. Patrick’s Cathedral

I’m going to end with one of my favorite things to do in Dublin in December. For me there’s nothing quite like a carol service at Dublin’s St.Patrick’s Cathedral. Their choir school is the oldest in Ireland and is still going strong today. To me, it doesn’t matter what your religion is or isn’t. The sound of a choir of angelic voices with the stunning acoustic of this stunning building makes for truly spiritual experience.

Well that’s all from me for 2021. I just want to thank you all so much for reading and for your continued support of The Irish Store.

Wishing you and yours the happiest of holidays and a peaceful and prosperous New Year.

Nollaig shona dhuit,

Slán go fóill!

Lulu.