It’s dark, it’s cold, and it’s potentially raining – but we promise it’s a wonderful time of the year to be in Dublin!

With the sun setting at about 4pm, it’s no surprise there’s no shortage of activities to lift the mood! During the winter months, and December especially, there are so many magical activities to get up to all around Dublin. Read ahead for some of our favourite things to do in the capital this winter.

Lights, Lights, Lights!

What better way to brighten up your winter evenings than actual lights? Luckily there are plenty of unique installations and activities all around the county to choose from – both free and paid.

The Winter Lights have made a return and will be in place right up until January 1st. Organised by the Dublin City Council, Winter Lights features colourful projections and lighting displays in sixteen locations around Dublin. There is a walking map on the council’s website that can give you a complete route, but they’re also great to stumble upon by accident during your trips around the capital.

Quickly becoming a favourite among Dublin locals, Wild Lights at Dublin Zoo returns again in 2022. This year’s theme focuses on biodiversity with ‘The Magic of Life’. Some of nature’s most amazing transformations will be on display with over a thousand shining lanterns.

A bit further outside the city, Wonderlights is an amazing light and sound show – a night walk set in North Dublin. Their new show ‘The Night Sky’ returns to Malahide Castle this winter. Transforming from the lights of Dublin to the Northern Lights of the Arctic Forests, this is a unique winter experience.

Check Out the Winter Markets

While Dublin might not have the Christmas market clout of some other capital cities around Europe, there are definitely some great ones that are worth checking out if you get the chance! You can expect all the normal fare of festive treats and mulled wine plus some more traditional Irish crafts and gifts!

Very close to home, Eatyard at The Bernard Shaw is transforming into Winteryard, a festive experience of Christmas decor, drinks, food & games running from November to January 2023! Running every weekend, there will be plenty of seasonal food and drinks to keep you cosy – perfect for a more casual wintery night out in the city.

One of Dublin’s standout festive markets, the Dun Laoghaire Christmas Market has unfortunately been on a two-year hiatus – but we’re hoping to see it back in South Dublin this winter! A really magical location, it can be ideal for grabbing a hot drink and just enjoying the wintery walks along the pier.

Last but certainly not least, the super in-demand Christmas at the Castle is back right in the centre of town at Dublin Castle. There will be more than 20 wooden chalet-style stalls, live entertainment and delicious food. While it is a free event, it is also ticketed! Tickets are currently fully reserved but keep an eye out for cancellations and more being released – this one really is unmissable.

The Capital’s Christmas Classics

Then there are the ever-reliable Christmas classics. Some year-round Dublin events that are elevated at this time of year.

The Guinness Storehouse will be transforming its seven floors once again this year into a full seasonal experience. If you’re visiting this year, you can also expect an amazingly unique visual display that ties into their theme of ‘Coming Home’.

If the Guinness Storehouse is a bit too busy for you, we think the Jameson Distillery at Smithfield offers a more laid-back vibe while also being completely Christmassy! Whether you’re just stopping in for a drink or taking one of their classes, expect festive cocktails and a super cosy aesthetic in the open hall of the distillery.

Just Have a Wander of Dublin City!

And of course, if you’re somebody who just prefers to go with the flow, you can avoid all the bookings and tickets and just merrily wander around the wonderful Dublin City. The iconic streets are lit up all around and there is no shortage of pubs to stop into if the cold ever gets too much!

Whether past the shopfronts of Grafton Street or the cobblestoned paths of Temple Bar, there is an undeniable buzz almost everywhere at this time of year. So take it all in and enjoy one of our favourite seasons in our favourite city.

If you plan on visiting Ireland this winter or into 2023, the Point Campus blog has plenty of info on life in Ireland’s capital for students. From study hacks to hidden gems, we’ve got it all covered. So check out our past blogs and Life at Point Campus for more information on student life in the Dublin Docklands. If you have any questions about booking a stay at Point Campus, reach out to us on Facebook or Instagram and our team will try and help out however we can!