Ireland in the winter can be dark with unpredictable weather; however, this makes it an even more perfect time to enjoy the cosmopolitan delights of Dublin city. The short, chilly days are just a welcome excuse to slip off to the pub, pop into a gallery, or dive into one of the city’s growing number of seasonal events.
Dublin’s Best Winter Pub
Time to reacquaint yourself with the simple joy of Dublin pubs. Forget fancy cocktail bars; winter is the time to enjoy a hot whiskey and some quality time talking about everything and nothing with your nearest and dearest. Any decent boozer fits the bill, but for something particularly seasonal, get to the Hole in the Wall after a brisk walk in Phoenix Park. You’ll step into an incredible, slightly surreal, winter wonderland that seems to have materialized from your childhood fantasies—except they serve beer. Each room has a different theme and is covered in festive decorations.
Newgrange in Winter
To get back to some prehistoric pagan winter basics, consider marking the solstice at Newgrange on 22 December. A few lucky lottery winners can go inside the ancient tomb to witness the sun rising directly in line with the building’s entrance. Public tours of the Newgrange tomb commence again after the lottery winners depart, typically around 9 am. A similar but smaller gathering occurs at the nearby Hill of Tara, the ancient seat of Irish kings.
Sparkling Lights and Even More Sparkly Jewellery
A winter walk around Dublin Zoo may not seem like the best idea; however, each evening through the darkest months, the zoo livens up with the spectacular Wild Lights display. Running until 5 January 2020, visitors can enjoy giant silk lanterns shaped like animals and illuminated in vibrant colours. This year’s theme celebrates stories, myths, and legends, featuring Chinese performances, Asian food stalls, and a craft market to enjoy. It is advisable to secure tickets early, as this event sells out fast!
In the city centre, twelve notable buildings will be illuminated and animated with projections from sunset to 2 am for 30 nights between early December and early January. Places like City Hall, Liberty Hall, and Mansion House are getting a festive makeover. This display promises to be eco-friendly and energy-efficient, providing a delightful experience for all visitors.
Dublin’s Galleries in Winter
Discover the history of Ireland through photographs from past eras at the View of Ireland: Collecting Photography exhibition at the National Gallery of Ireland, available until 2 February 2020. This is the first photography exhibition to be held at the gallery, featuring works from prominent photographers like Erich Hartmann, Amelia Stein, Nevill Johnson, Eamonn Doyle, Inge Morath, and Jane Bown.
If you’re in the mood for something interactive, the Science Gallery offers a variety of engaging exhibits that tackle the challenges facing Ireland and the world today and in the future. Additionally, the Irish Museum of Modern Art will launch PROTEST! in November, running until late February 2020. This retrospective showcases the works of British artist and filmmaker Derek Jarman.
Start the Year with Festivals for Every Taste
Dublin is a hugely popular destination to ring in the New Year, with official celebrations occurring at Custom House Quay. If you’re traveling with kids and don’t want to keep them awake until midnight, there is a ‘matinee’ event at 6 pm where you can countdown to 2020 early while enjoying the light show. The official Countdown Concert begins at 8 pm, while the Liffey Lights Midnight Moments promises a spectacular show from 11:30 pm onwards. The concert is the only paid event, requiring tickets for entry.
First Fortnight kicks off the year in early January with a creative program for any lover of the arts. Each event is designed to raise awareness of mental health, challenging stigma and prejudice. Expect a range of events including theatre, comedy, graffiti, film screenings, and panel discussions.
From 8-12 January, the city will be ground control for all Major Tom fans with the fourth annual Dublin Bowie Festival. The Bowie Ball returns to the Grand Social with a space theme, so pack your favorite Bowie-inspired costume for the festivities.
For something entirely different, Dublin will host the country’s largest festival of traditional Irish music from 22-26 January at TradFest. It offers concert-goers the chance to experience traditional, folk, and even the occasional rock ‘n’ roll music in unique venues like St Michan’s Church, Rathfarnham Castle, and St Patrick’s Cathedral.
Finally, celebrate again with the Dublin Chinese New Year Festival, welcoming the Year of the Rat with various art and cultural events in February. Anticipate delightful performances including Chinese opera, dance, talks, and visual art.
This article was first published November 2018, last updated September 2019.
