Galway Christmas Market 2019: everything you need to know

The much-loved Galway Christmas Market returns this November. Here’s everything you need to know about the festive affair

Following its incredible success last year, the Galway Christmas Market is set to return to Eyre Square this winter. More than 650,000 visitors flocked to the festive event in 2018 – and 2019 is believed to be bigger and better than ever.

Launching at 6 pm on Friday, November 15, the market will run for five weeks until Sunday, December 22. With plenty of food and entertainment, guests are invited to arrive between 12 pm and 8 pm, Monday-Wednesday; and between 10 am and 10 pm, Thursday-Sunday.

Entertainment

For the tenth year running, the Galway Christmas Market will feature a number of traditional funfair rides, including a 32-metre high ‘Big Wheel’ and a family-friendly carousel.

Not only that, but you can also enjoy Santa’s Express Train, carol singing, live music performers, puppet shows and storytelling (plus community events at Santa’s Grotto).

While the kiddies pay a visit to Santa Claus, grown-ups can enjoy a drink in the Après Ski Bar, or perhaps a pint in the ever-popular Bier Keller (which will also play host to various events throughout the Market’s duration).

Elsewhere, enchanted light gardens provide a magical backdrop for family photos.

The 2019 market will also feature artisan food products and Christmas gift ideas from both local and European traders. According to organisers, some of the stocking fillers on offer include wooden toys and jigsaws, paper stars, jewellery and accessories, wood sculptures and ceramics.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Galway Christmas Market (@galwaychristmasmarket) on Nov 30, 2015 at 12:33pm PST

The View Wheel’s VIP Experience

For a more luxury experience, why not book yourself a VIP experience on the 32-metre observation wheel?

Priced at €50 for four people, the VIP package includes a bottle of Prosecco, a box of chocolates, fluffy blankets to keep warm under, and 25 minutes in the VIP Christmas gondola.

Alternatively, general admission for adults is €5, while under-14s is €4. Family tickets (two adults and two children) are priced at €15. Visit TheViewWheel on Facebook to check for availability.

Organisers say, “We’re looking forward to a wheelie good time at the Christmas Market”.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Galway Christmas Market (@galwaychristmasmarket) on Dec 1, 2015 at 9:15am PST

Food lovers

If food and drink are more your style, the Galway Christmas Market will feature stalls selling bratwurst, French pastries, pretzels and confectionery, as well as classic French crêpes and authentic Belgian waffles.

There will also be doughnuts, handmade Italian chocolates, candied nuts, Czech chimney cakes and Irish fudge.

Then, wash it all down with some German beers, apple cider and/or mulled wine. Delicious.

For more information, visit galwaytourism.ie.

Photo: Christmas Market Galway

Read more: Vintage Christmas jumpers – 27 styles to buy for winter 2019

Read more: The most luxurious Advent calendars for beauty lovers

Read more: When are the Christmas lights turning on in Dublin, Cork, Galway, Belfast and Limerick?