As the Christmas season sparkles into life, there's nothing quite like the charm of a Christmas market to get you into the festive spirit. It's that time of the year when the smell of mulled wine and gingerbread fills the air, and twinkling lights create a magical atmosphere.
Whether you're a seasoned market-goer or planning your first trip, Portwest- The Outdoor Shop is here to guide you through 3 enchanting Christmas markets in Ireland along the Wild Atlantic Way. So, grab a hot cocoa, snuggle up, and let's dive into a world of festive delights!
Galway Christmas Markets:
Have you heard about the Galway Christmas Markets? They're pretty much the top pick for Christmas markets in Ireland. Can you believe it's already their 13th year? Time flies!
And last year over 450,000 of you visited the Galway Continental Christmas Market.
This time around, the market is going to stick to Eyre Square. In the past, it was spread over the city. But hey, all the cool stuff is back – the stalls, the ginger bread house, and that huge 32 metre ferris wheel.
Mark your calendars – the markets kicked off on Friday, November 10th and they're going to keep the festive vibes rolling right up to Saturday, 7th of January.
Newport:
Newport is this charming little town right by the sea in Clew Bay, County Mayo just a 12km drive from our stores in Westport. The place is snuggled up by the Black Oak River and it's a real treat for anyone who loves a good hike or walk. It's even got the Great Western Greenway trail.
The 2023 Festive Christmas Market and the Newport Christmas Lights will take place on Sunday, 3rd December, from 4 pm to 7 pm. The switch-on ceremony will be brightened up by carol singers and music.
Local artists, bakers, candle makers, and knitters, as well as businesses, will set up stalls for a fun-filled evening for your whole family.
Killarney:
Spend time in the charming town of Killarney. The Christmas market, full of stalls of local produce, gourmet food and drinks and even mulled wine comes to Killarney for two weekends in December. You can visit between 10am – 6pm in The Arbutus Hotel, December 9th, 10th, 16th & 17th.
You can also sponsor a light on the Christmas Tree in the grounds of St Mary’s Cathedral. Be sure to pop into our store on New Street which is just a 7 minute walk from the Christmas Market. Keep warm and dry on your stroll around town.
As the winter wind starts to whistle, these Christmas markets offer the perfect opportunity to wrap up in your favourite fleece or jacket, explore the twinkling stalls, and make memories to last you a lifetime. Whether it's the vibrant energy of Galway, the seaside tranquillity of Newport, or the traditional allure of Killarney, each experience promises to be as warm and inviting as a Christmas hug.
And if you’re close by Killarney, Galway City or Westport, pop into one of our 4 stores.
