The Enchanting Experience of Christmas in Limerick.

You may not expect this from a small city like Limerick, but it has so much to offer for the holiday season. Whether it’s food-filled wonders, musical performances, delightful crafts sessions or a visit from the big man himself, it is safe to say that the streets are roaring with non-stop Christmas cheer! Here’s a breakdown of the main events not to be missed on your visit this month.

Each Friday and Saturday of December, the Milk Market opens its doors to the public to spread Christmas cheer. Such things to expect are a grand assortment of yummy winter foods such as rich cheeses, crepe stands, mouth watering cookies and toasties, as well as a variety of vintage clothing racks and homemade crafts for some last-minute Christmas shopping!

When it comes to special guests, expect Mr. Claus himself on the 16th of December greeting children and making their Christmas wishes come true! Another wholesome event is their fundraiser for Limerick’s Suicide Watch by the Lyons of Limerick (local car company) the 21st of December in its delightful Open-Air Coutryard from 11AM until 3PM. Expect Christmas tunes, games and delicious snacks and bevs for all to enjoy! Finally, the Limerick Milk Market will host bashful outdoor evenings on the 22nd and 23rd welcoming locals to enjoy live Christmas music and fresh local produce to feast on for a last blast before the big day!

Limerick gathers over 100 nationalities and makes sure to celebrate these vividly throughout its four-week holiday festivities. Such culturally rich events include dance classes, storytelling, food festivals, music performances, and a grandiose holiday fair gathering Christmas and other holidays traditions from all over the world.

Here’s a list of International Christmas and Winter events in Limerick this year: International Christmas at Dance Limerick, the Polish Christmas Carol Concert, Festive Folktales from Far Away, Tasting Culture - Swapping Recipes and Stories, Winter Celebration at Limerick City Art Gallery, Sing out with strings: Christmas Stories and Music, Newcastle West Holiday Fair, and the Limerick Youth Theatre. Plenty to peak your interest! To find out more about these and other International Christmas events, here is their schedule. 

Limerick is hands down the place in Ireland to see Santa and his crew, and you’ll have several chances to do it! From Santa’s Magical Cabin and theLiskennett’s Santa Experience to Santa’s Grotto and the once-in-a-lifetime chance to visit Santa’s secret workshop, it’s safe to say that children will be jumping off the walls with excitement!

But there are also activities for you parents out there looking for a relaxing time without all the screaming and yelling: a lovely visit to Trad Thursdays at Katie Daly’s (Heritage Pub & Kitchen) may just be what you need. Sit back, relax, and catch up with old mates whilst sipping on pints and feasting on crisps. Enjoy a cozy traditional Irish pub setting and a splendid fireplace with Christmas decorations to tie the lot! 

Was the Daly’s too full? Head over to the Treaty City Brewery Christmas Fair! On the 16th of December from 2PM to 10PM, the street of the Brewery quickly crowds as thirsty patrons approach its doorsteps. What’s to be expected? Well, a cool brew of course! But not only that, as for the occasion, the Brewery has lined up live music from the Limerick Medieval Quarter! So drink and listen up!

Now for the exciting event you’ve all been waiting for: The Firestorm by ROGU. This year’s fire performance show will be held on the Sunday 3rd of December at 5:30PM on the Merchant’s Quay and is guaranteed to get your sparks flying - pun intended. Enjoy a magical fire show with a cheerful musical accompaniment to start the holiday season off on the right foot. Not to be missed!

Speaking of extreme performances, another event worth attending is the Christmas Aerial Extravaganza on the 16th of December at 5PM and 7:30PM at King John’s Castle, whereby world class Fidget Fidget dancers perform high above the water for all to marvel. The entry to this spectacle is 5 euros per head or 15 euros per family. You won’t regret it!

Thirsty for more outdoor spectacles? Fret not as Limerick has got a jam packed schedule for free street shows throughout the holiday season. To find out when and where, click here.

Looking for a more elegant night out to celebrate a special occasion? Limerick’s got exactly what you need. Consider attending one of the Opera Festival - AL Fresco Seasonal Sessions by Mother Mac’s Public House on the 2nd, 9th and 16th of December at 8PM.

Looking for a more classic winter activity? Try out Limerick on Ice! Perfect for couples or families - and easy to book! With 6 time slots everyday until January 7th, you are guaranteed a time to try out your skills on the ice!

Finally, let’s end things off with some classic Christmas specific activities. 

If you are looking for a holy and warm atmosphere on a cold night out, reach Knockainey Twilight Christmas Fayre at St John’s 19th Century Church on the 16th of December from 4PM to 7:30PM. Adults can enjoy some mulled wine and browse around charming crafts stands whilst children can meet and take pictures with their idol, Santa, at the Santa Grotto (10 euros per child). A grand time for all! 

If you’re more of an outdoorsie’s type of person, reach the Woodlands Christmas markets for a guaranteed jolly atmosphere on the 2nd and 3rd of December. Don’t forget to wear some layers!

For more information on all Limerick Christmas, here’s their full-blown schedule! And if you’re keen on getting live updates, here’s their instagram page.

Here are a couple of our favourite hotels in Limerick: