Hi Everyone. So the holiday season is very nearly upon us! I don’t know about you but I can safely say that myself and everyone at The Irish Store are looking forward to a well earned break! We’ve had a really busy season and that’s all down to our loyal customers all over the world. So a huge thank you to you all! This is my last post of the year so I thought it would be fun to take a little tour of Christmas in Ireland. So buckle up and let’s visit some of our towns and cities in all their festive finery.
Christmas In Ireland
1. Belfast
First up we’re heading up north to the city of Belfast. I think Belfast probably hosts one of the best Christmas markets in the country. This is due to the fact that it is located right bang in the middle of the city center. It also has the magnificent City Hall as its backdrop. This iconic Belfast building which first opened it’s doors in 1906 looks amazing at this time of year. Apart from all the great shopping at the market, you can also enjoy foods from around the world, sip a mulled wine or hot cider and take a slide down the vintage helter-skelter!
2. Galway
Time to head west to the vibrant City of Tribes. With it’s winding streets festooned with festive lights, Galway is brimming with festive cheer. There’s nothing like a warming hot port or Irish Coffee in one of the many cozy pubs after a day of Christmas shopping. Galway also boasts its very own atmospheric Christmas market on Eyre Square.
3. Killarney
It wouldn’t be Christmas in Ireland without a visit to the Kingdom of Kerry. In Killarney, they kick off the Christmas season in style with their Big Magical Christmas Parade. Of course Santa Claus is the guest of honor! Mini-parades continue each week throughout December to keep that festive spirit going.
4. Waterford
Heading cross country to the south east now. Waterford boasts Ireland’s largest Christmas festival. Winterval runs for the month leading up to Christmas. The wealth of festive fun on offer includes the Santa Experience, the Winterval Express Train, the Horse Drawn Sleigh and Winterval on Ice.
5. Dublin
So we simply have to end our Christmas In Ireland trip in the capital. Of course I am biased as it’s my hometown! But really, for me there’s nothing quite like the festive atmosphere in Dublin. I just love the hustle and bustle of Grafton Street and Henry Street. Other highlights include Carols by Candlelight at Christchurch and the Moving Crib which takes me back to my childhood.
So that’s all from me for 2018. Once again thank you all so much for reading and keeping me company on the journey and for your continued support of The Irish Store.
May I wish you and yours the happiest of holidays and a peaceful and prosperous New Year.
Nollaig shona dhuit,
Slán go fóill!
Lulu.
