Dublin Christmas Events 2026
Your guide to the best Christmas events in Dublin and nearby
The season around Dublin brings dazzling light displays, from grand holiday parades and tree-lighting ceremonies to intimate holiday markets. You'll find theaters putting on beloved seasonal productions, and community gatherings that celebrate the spirit of winter, often just a short drive away.
Highlights include the grand spectacle of WinterFest at California’s Great America and the enchanting Glowfari at the Oakland Zoo. For those seeking musical performances, A Chanticleer Christmas offers a renowned vocal experience, while local tree lightings dot the landscape with cheer.
Browse Christmas Near Dublin by Category
Christmas Shows
Features live accompaniment by the Oakland Symphony and children's choir.
Christmas Markets
One-mile community celebration across Albany and Berkeley with live entertainment.
Christmas Lights
Nighttime holiday train ride through Niles Canyon aboard illuminated vintage railcars.
Unique & Unusual Christmas Events
Features the illumination of a 30-foot tree, performances, and crafts.
Editor's Picks
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Dublin Annual Holiday Tree Lighting
Features the illumination of a 30-foot tree, performances, and crafts.
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Carols by Candlelight
Renowned choir performing carols in a candlelit cathedral.
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Graham Lustig's The Nutcracker
· Oakland
Features live accompaniment by the Oakland Symphony and children's choir.
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Annual Holiday Sights & Sounds Parade & Tree Lighting
· Livermore
Livermore holiday tradition featuring floats, Santa's arrival, and a sing-along.
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43rd Annual Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting
· Brentwood
Themed Brentwood Express for its 44th annual community celebration.
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Hometown Holiday Celebration
· Pleasanton
Festive parade down Main Street followed by a tree lighting ceremony.
Events Happening Soon
Dublin Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Christmas Events in Nearby Cities
Christmas Events Road Trips & Weekend Getaways
Bigger holiday scenes worth the drive
Dublin Christmas FAQ
What are the biggest annual Christmas events in Dublin?
The Dublin Winter Lights festival and Wonderlights at Marlay Park and Malahide Castle are among the biggest annual Christmas events, alongside popular markets at Farmleigh House and Phoenix Park.
What holiday traditions are unique to Dublin?
Dublin is known for its Christmas Eve busking tradition on Grafton Street, where musicians gather to perform for charity, and the popular Christmas Day swim at the Forty Foot in Sandycove.
Which neighborhoods are best for Christmas lights in Dublin?
The city center, including O’Connell Street and Merrion Square, offers impressive light displays, while neighborhoods near Marlay Park and Malahide feature large-scale light shows and festive decorations.
Where can I find Christmas markets and local makers in Dublin?
Farmleigh House and Phoenix Park host notable Christmas markets with local makers, and various neighborhood artisan markets throughout Dublin provide opportunities to shop for crafts and seasonal goods.
What are the best free or budget-friendly holiday activities in Dublin?
Enjoy free light displays in the city center, stroll through neighborhood holiday lights, visit public Christmas markets, or explore festive installations at Dublin Zoo’s Wild Lights event for affordable seasonal fun.
What are good picks for families with kids in Dublin?
Family-friendly options include the Wonderlights walk-through light shows, Elf Town at the RDS with Santa and reindeer, and the Wild Lights event at Dublin Zoo, all offering engaging experiences for children.
Today's Trending Event
One of today's most-visited holiday events from across the country.
GM Financial Parade of Lights
📍 Fort Worth , TX , United States
Illuminated holiday parade through Downtown Fort Worth featuring Santa and festive floats.
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