10 festive, family-friendly events in Dublin to take the kids to this December

It doesn’t feel like Christmas is mere weeks away, does it? If you’re a parent, however, you’ll have been thinking on this time of year for weeks (most likely) and how you can make sure your little ones get as much enjoyment out of it as possible. Below, we’ve rounded up only some of the festive, family-friendly events on in Dublin over the coming weeks that everyone can enjoy. 

A bit of history

There is Free Christmas Events at the 3 National Museum of Ireland museums, Decorative Arts & History at Collins Barracks, Natural History at Merrion Square and Archaeology at Kildare Street, all through the month of December

For a dose of history that’s both informative and entertaining, the  Moving Crib will be back in Parnell Square, Dublin from November 27th 2018 to January 6th 2019. This year they celebrate 62 years of their unique event. The crib is open daily from 11am to 6pm (except for Christmas Day, St. Stephen’s Day and New Years Day). It’s a free event, but large groups must book in advance. Opens from November 27th 2018 to January 6th 2019.

Unique experiences 

Dublin Zoo has a truly mesmerising aquatic animal themed light show running from November 1st. The show runs from 5pm to 9pm nightly and even in the cold outdoors, the sights are a wonder to behold. The kids will love it. Opens now until January 6th 2019.

The Elves in Training Santa Experience at Croke Park from November 24th is sure to delight audiences young and old as you get a glimpse into exactly what it takes to be one of Santa’s trusty elves! Opens from November 24th to December 23rd.

Panto fun and more

Yes, it’s panto time! Mill Productions’ Christmas panto for all the family at dlr Mill Theatre, Dundrum is the favourite Beauty and the Beast and is sure to delight audiences of all ages. Runs from Friday, December 7th 2018 to Sunday, January 6th 2019.

One for when the kids have gone to bed (and because the adults deserve some of their own fun too), Les Misérables will be at The Bord Gais Energy Theatre from December 5th to January 12th, 2019.

Branar Téatar do Pháistí are at the Ark in Temple Bar with their gorgeous adaptation of Oliver Jeffers’ How To Catch a Star. This is the story of a boy who was always looking up and dreamt of having a star as a friend. The performance is non-verbal and is suitable for ages 4+.  It’s really a beautiful show. Performances take place on dates from December 5th to 30th 2018.

The National Concert Hall Family Christmas Concert with the ECO Band takes place on December 8th. There’s also the NCH Christmas Show This Way to Christmas! from December 21st to 23rd and, one that is sure to be popular The Wizard of Oz from December 27th to January 3rd.

Fun for the kids and the adults

Ice-Skating anyone? Get ready to have some fun on the ice Dundrum on Ice, Swords & Blanchardstown will all be open during the festive season. Opens from November 24th to January 14th.

The 13th Annual Aware Christmas Run takes place in the Phoenix Park on Saturday, December 8th 2018. It always sees a huge turnout and it’s for such a great cause. Online registration is now available at aware.ie/events for both 5K and 10K options. It costs €25 per person.