Carlow Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Carlow and surrounding areas
Carlow’s the Christmas season brings Holiday lights across the town and seasonal holiday activities around cultural landmarks like the Talbot Hotel Carlow and Rathwood Adventure Centre. Enjoy Magical Santa Experiences at Talbot Hotel Carlow or ride the Rathwood Santa Train Experience for family-friendly fun. Local markets, carol nights and festive trails offer holiday attractions for all ages while cozy cafés and historic streets make Carlow an inviting destination for seasonal shopping and winter festivities.
Find the best Carlow Christmas happenings this year!
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Christmas Shows
16 eventsChristmas movie soundtracks performed by candlelight
Christmas Markets
12 eventsIreland's largest Christmas festival and European City of Christmas.
Christmas Parties
10 eventsElegant festive celebrations in a historic hotel.
Christmas Lights
6 eventsDazzling lantern trail designed by a 'junior genius' team.
Christmas Activities
18 eventsMagical Santa Experiences for families
Editor's Picks (6)
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Winterval Waterford
(Waterford)
Ireland's largest Christmas festival and European City of Christmas.
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Dublin Zoo's Wild Lights
(Saint James)
Dazzling lantern trail designed by a 'junior genius' team.
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Magical Santa Experiences at Talbot Hotel Carlow
Magical Santa Experiences for families
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Dublin Christmas Markets Guide
(Dublin)
A guide to Dublin's diverse Christmas markets and festive events.
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Christmas at the Movies at St Patrick's Cathedral
(Dublin)
Christmas movie soundtracks performed by candlelight
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Santa's Magical Cabin at ILAC Centre
(Dublin)
Private Santa visits with personalized details
Events Happening Soon (6)
Carlow Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Also Near Carlow
Christmas Events Road Trips & Weekend Getaways
Worth the drive for more holiday events near Carlow!
Carlow Christmas FAQ
The biggest annual Christmas events in Carlow often include the switching-on of the Christmas lights in the town center and various Christmas markets that pop up throughout December. These events draw significant crowds and mark the start of the festive season.
While Carlow shares many common holiday traditions with the wider region, local community events and specific market offerings often give the season a unique flavor. Keep an eye out for locally organized craft fairs and festive gatherings.
Many residential neighborhoods in Carlow become beautifully decorated with Christmas lights, creating a magical atmosphere for evening strolls. The town center also features impressive public light displays.
Christmas markets and local makers can be found throughout Carlow, particularly in the town center and at various community venues. These markets are excellent places to discover unique crafts and artisanal products.
Free and budget-friendly holiday activities in Carlow include admiring the town's Christmas lights, browsing local markets, and enjoying the festive atmosphere in the town center. Many community events also offer low-cost or free entertainment.
Families with kids in Carlow can enjoy visiting Santa meet-and-greets, exploring festive light displays, and attending family-friendly shows or markets. Many local events are specifically designed to entertain younger visitors during the holiday season.