By Sarah Gill
07th Dec 2023
07th Dec 2023
From winter wonderlands to markets and musicals, here are our top picks of what’s happening this weekend.
Taylors Three Rock Santa Experience
Until 24 December
Taylors Three Rock in Rathfarnham is magically spiralling into an enchanting wonderland to enchant all ages this festive season. With a meet and greet from Mrs. Claus, live performances from dancing elves, and the opportunity to get a photo with Santa himself, you’ll also receive a gift specially delivered from the North Pole just in time for Christmas. Find more information here.
Until 23 December, Outset Gallery, The Corn Store, Galway
OXO will act as Ireland’s largest Christmas exhibition of 2023, providing a platform for artists based locally, nationally and internationally to exhibit their artwork in Galway city. Last year, OXO 2022 featured 110 works from 80 artists, and they’re building on that this year with 135 original artworks from over 125 artists representing a diverse range of disciplines.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory — The Musical
From 5 December, Bord Gais Energy Theatre, Dublin
Based on the iconic story, this spectacular stage show follows the hit West End and Broadway productions to combine the memorable songs from the original 1970’s motion picture with all new numbers from the multi award-winning songwriters of Hairspray.
Christmas at the Castle 2023
Until 13 December, Dublin Castle
Set in the heart of Dublin, Christmas at the Castle will have something for everyone, with a boutique open air Christmas Market, with entertainment in our festively decorated Spiegel style marquee among some of the festive offerings. The historic courtyard of Dublin Castle will be filled with over 25 traditional alpine market stalls featuring an array of decorative crafts and inspiring gift ideas. Come and indulge in traditional fare sold by artisan producers and soak up the festive atmosphere. There will also be a vintage carousel on site for children.
Gifted at the RDS
Until 10 December, RDS, Dublin
The ultimate destination for anyone interested in craft, design, unique independent brands and artisan food producers, Gifted returns to the RDS with a wide range of exciting and innovative small businesses and Irish creatives.
Wannabe — Spice Girls Show
8 December, The Button Factory, Dublin
Wannabe — The Spice Girls Show comes to Dublin for an intimate show with everything you love about this groundbreaking girl band. This talented tribute act will have you convinced you’ve taken a step back to the ‘90s as they play all the hit songs that you know and love. You’ll be singing along with Who Do You Think You Are?</i?, Viva Forever, Spice Up Your Life, and many more hits.
Damien Dempsey in Leisureland
9 December, Leisureland, Galway
After two triumphant sold out shows at Iveagh Gardens in July, Damien Dempsey announced his longest run of six shows at Vicar Street for Christmas 2023. Both Iveagh and Vicar Street have become a thing of legend for Damien and his devoted gig going tribe. The December Tour will kick off in Limerick and end on New Years Eve in Killarney, and this weekend, he’s hitting Galway.
The Fumbally Christmas Market
8, 9&10 December, The Fumbally Stables, Dublin
If you want to get your Christmas shopping done in one fell swoop, this indoor market should absolutely be on the agenda. With rotating stalls of food producers, artists, independent crafters and creatives, stand out small businesses include The Dirt Bird, Liadain Aiken, Imara Earth, and many, many more.
10&11 December, NHO – New Hair Order, Dublin
Taking over the beautiful space at NHO – New Hair Order, incredible Irish womenswear designer Colin Horgan will be showcasing and selling his gorgeous pieces alongside Coole Swan, with curated floral installations by Seachto. See what’s in store here.
Mellow Tonics Christmas Concert: Pure Imagination
10 December, Pepper Canister Church, Dublin
Step into the whimsical and enchanting world of Pure Imagination where the music of Mellow Tonics choir sparkles with joy and wonder. Join the celebration as captivating choral harmonies and bewitching melodies envelop you in a mist of musical magic. Led by musical director Norah Walsh and accompanied by pianist Emmet O’Connor the choir is delighted to welcome on the night special guest guitarist Sacha Bistany.
For more events happening this month, visit our December Event Guide.
