Frequently Asked Questions – Dublin Christmas Markets 2025
Everything you need to know before you go

1. Is there a Christmas market at Dublin Castle in 2025?
No – Dublin Castle Christmas market is officially cancelled for both 2025 and 2026

2. What are the main Christmas markets in Dublin this year?
- TwinkleTown Smithfield (replacing the old Mistletown – biggest one)
- Dublin Loves Christmas at the RDS Ballsbridge
- Henry Street & Mary Street traditional street markets
- Plus lots of smaller pop-ups (Gifted Fair, Farmleigh, Swords Castle, etc.)

3. Are the Christmas markets free to enter?
Yes – entry to all main markets (TwinkleTown, RDS, Henry/Mary Street) is completely FREE. You only pay for food, drinks, ice skating, rides and shows.

4. When does TwinkleTown Smithfield open in 2025?
Friday 28 November 2025 – Sunday 4 January 2026. Usually 12pm–9/10pm daily (exact times updated weekly on twinkletown.ie).

5. When is Dublin Loves Christmas at the RDS open?
Saturday 15 November – Tuesday 23 December 2025. Closed Mondays. Hours: 12pm–9pm/10pm (full details at dublinloveschristmas.ie).

6. Is there ice skating in Dublin Christmas markets 2025?
Yes!
- TwinkleTown Smithfield: large outdoor real-ice rink (tickets required)
- Dublin Loves Christmas RDS: full-size covered ice rink (tickets required)

7. Do I need to book tickets in advance?
- Market entry: no
- Ice skating, big wheel, panto/Spiegeltent shows: yes – book early at the official sites, especially weekends.

8. What are the best parking options?
- Smithfield/TwinkleTown: Q-Park Smithfield or Park Rite Arran Quay
- RDS: limited on-site or street parking – public transport recommended
- City centre: Jervis, Ilac or Arnotts car parks

9. How do I get there by public transport?
- Luas Red Line, F1, F2 bus 24/7 → Smithfield stop (TwinkleTown)
- Bus routes 4, 7, 7a, 18, 27x → RDS
- Luas Green Line or countless buses → Henry/Mary Street

10. Are the markets wheelchair and pushchair friendly?
Yes – all main markets have flat access and disabled toilets. Ice rinks have limited wheelchair sessions – check official sites.

11. Are dogs allowed?
Leashed dogs are welcome in the outdoor areas of TwinkleTown and RDS (not inside food halls or Spiegeltent). Henry/Mary Street – yes on leads.

12. Can I pay by card or is it cash only?
Most stalls now take card/contactless, but bring €20–€30 cash for smaller traders and mug deposits.

13. Is there a Santa’s grotto?
Yes – weekends at TwinkleTown (Santo Panto grotto) and RDS. Book online to avoid queues.

14. When is the best time to visit to avoid crowds?
Weekday evenings (Tuesday–Thursday) or early afternoons on weekends. Avoid Saturday after 4pm if you hate queues.

15. Will the markets be cancelled if it rains?
No – both big markets have plenty of covered areas, heated bars and indoor sections. They only close in extreme weather (very rare).

16. Any new attractions in 2025?
Yes – TwinkleTown has a brand-new Spiegeltent panto and Magic Present Machine. RDS has an 80-metre drop tower thrill ride.

17. I’m coming from outside Dublin – best hotel locations?
Stay in Smithfield, Ballsbridge or city centre with Luas access – see our Hotels page.

18. Something went wrong or you have more questions?
Email hello@dublinchristmasmarkets2025.ie – we reply within 24 hours.

19. Emergency & Useful Contacts

In an emergency:
• Gardaí, Ambulance, Fire → 999 or 112 (free from any phone)

Lost property or non-emergency Garda → +353 1 666 9000
Dublin City Council (market enquiries / complaints) → markets@dublincity.ie or +353 1 222 2222
Taxi complaints / lost property → Taxi Regulator 0818 064 000
Nearest hospitals with A&E: Mater Misericordiae (Smithfield area) +353 1 803 2000 | St Vincent’s University Hospital (RDS area) +353 1 221 4000

Have a safe and magical Christmas in Dublin! 🎄