Dublin’s Christmas market plans are taking shape, with published dates for TwinkleTown at Smithfield Square and St Patrick’s Park, and Everwinter at the RDS. For an early booking, the useful distinction is between getting into a market and paying for a particular attraction.

This is a source-checked planning guide as of 14 October, not a complete list of every festive market. Dublin City Council says its full Christmas programme will be revealed in November. [4]

TwinkleTown: two locations, different date ranges

The organiser’s ticket page lists Smithfield Square from 20 November to 31 December, and St Patrick’s Park from 27 November to 23 December. It says general entry is free at both locations, with no admission ticket required. Ice skating and Santo Panto at Smithfield are ticketed separately. [1]

The council’s 24 September announcement identifies an Irish makers’ market among the returning Smithfield activities and a new festive programme in St Patrick’s Park in the Liberties. It also points to markets around Henry Street, Mary Street and Moore Street, without giving a complete timetable for each in that announcement. [4]

Do not assume the two TwinkleTown sites have identical attractions or daily hours. Before setting out, check the organiser’s current information for the location you intend to visit.

Everwinter: the Christmas market ends on 23 December

At the RDS in Ballsbridge, Everwinter’s full event runs from 25 November to 23 December, Tuesday to Sunday. Published opening hours are 2pm–9pm Tuesday to Friday and noon–9pm at weekends; it is closed on Mondays. The Christmas market finishes on 23 December. The ice rink’s later reopening, from 26 December to 3 January, does not extend the market. [2]

That distinction matters if your trip is after Christmas. A general event heading that runs into January is not evidence that its craft stalls will still be trading.

The organiser’s FAQ lists adult general entry at €2.50. Children aged twelve and under enter free when accompanied by a ticket holder, but still need a child ticket. Skating, circus and fairground activities are separate purchases. Check the live booking screen for the current ticket conditions and final total. [2] [5]

What will be on the stalls?

Everwinter describes a selection of Irish makers, designers and producers. Its market page says the trader list will be announced closer to opening and that traders can change during the event. It also notes that some may take cash only. [3]

Treat that as a programme description, rather than a guarantee that a particular seller or product will be there on your chosen date. If you are travelling for one item, confirm directly with the trader once the list is available.

Plan the visit around the people coming

Choose the market first, then add any timed activity. Save each attraction’s booking time separately so a short shopping trip does not accidentally become an afternoon of conflicting reservations.

For a group, check step-free access, toilets, rest points and sensory-friendly options against the organiser’s current details. TwinkleTown advertises sensory-friendly sessions, but the dates and booking arrangements should be checked for the individual experience. [1]

Finally, use the year as well as the venue name when searching. A previous Christmas listing can remain online long after its market has finished. Confirm the 2026 date, location, entry terms and daily opening hours before arranging travel.

Sources were checked on 14 October 2026.