After Black Friday and Cyber Monday Christmas shopping is well and truly under way. But, if you had enough of the hustle and bustle of crowded shops and long queues for tills, then the Christmas Markets just might be your thing. Once a tradition more common with European cities like Brussels, Amsterdam or Berlin the Christmas Market has become a big draw in Ireland. OK, the Markets are outdoors and the weather can be cold but for Christmas spirit and atmosphere, great food and drink and all sorts of Christmas traditions like carol singing and Mulled Wine there really is nothing better to give you that warm Christmas cheer.
Many towns and cities now host Christmas Markets with some spectacular stalls throughout Ireland. St Stephen’s Green in Dublin running one the busiest Markets in the country. Located in Dublin City centre this is definitely worth the visit. Only recently set up as some of the local shop owners unsurprisingly objected to the competition, but for the visitors, it is attracting and to buzz around the area is fantastic. The local shops must be happy with the outcome. There are 60 or more stalls now trading and lots of diverse food treats and restaurants to try.
Galway only knows how to do spectacular and it doesn’t disappoint with the Christmas Market in Eyre Square right in the heartbeat of Galway centre. Very much a continental feel with over 50 stalls offering lots of great food and crafts. If you’re going the pastries are a must, beautiful home made pastries and continental flavors. Christmas presents for the children is accommodated, a nice selection of Toys from 3 main stalls. Technology gifts including IPad Tablets, Mobile Phones, Xbox and plenty of games to compliment, Laptops, scanners and Printers including the Epson SX215 printer ink. A traditional vibe to the market and a tremendous atmosphere help with the live choirs and carol singing. And how can we not mention the lively German beer tent. Yes, when all the shopping is done you can enjoy a German beer and live music. Surrounded by many famous pubs which Galway is so famous for….why not make a night of it.