Looking for the best Wicklow Christmas Markets in 2026? County Wicklow is getting into the festive spirit with Christmas shopping, twinkling woodland lights, ice skating and plenty of family-friendly activities to fill a winter weekend. Whether you’re planning a day trip from Dublin or fancy a longer escape to the Garden of Ireland, there’s plenty to keep you busy beyond the usual Christmas shopping dash.
The big news for 2026 is that the Wicklow Christmas Market is returning to Wicklow Town, with a new festive setting at the historic Wicklow Gaol. The market runs across five weekends from 21 November to 20 December, while Beyond the Trees Avondale is hosting its own indoor Christmas market, alongside an ice rink and a spectacular new illuminated woodland experience.
In this guide, we’ll cover the Wicklow Christmas Markets 2026 dates, opening hours, locations, admission costs and the best festive attractions to add to your itinerary. We’ll also share practical tips for getting around County Wicklow, so you can spend less time figuring out the logistics and more time enjoying the Christmas craic.
Quick Overview: Wicklow Christmas Markets 2026
Planning Wicklow at Christmas? Here are the dates and details for the top festive events.
Please note that Avondale’s Christmas market, ice skating, ILUMINA and Santa experiences are separate attractions, each with its own booking arrangements and ticket prices.
Main Christmas Events in Wicklow
Let’s kick things off with two of the biggest Christmas attractions in Wicklow: Christmas at Wicklow Gaol and Winter Woodlands at Avondale.
From festive market stalls in a historic gaol to ice skating, Santa experiences and spectacular forest lights, these two spots are a great starting point for planning your Christmas trip.
Then, we’ll explore the other festive events and Christmas markets dotted around County Wicklow.
1. Christmas at Wicklow Gaol, Wicklow Town
Dates: 21–22 & 28–29 November; 4–6, 11–13 & 18–20 December 2026
Opening hours: Fridays, 2pm–7pm; Saturdays and Sundays, 10am–7pm
Location: Wicklow’s Historic Gaol, Kilmantin Hill, Wicklow Town
Cost: Free market entry; Santa and selected activities cost extra.
Ever fancied celebrating Christmas in a 300-year-old prison? Welcome to Wicklow! The Wicklow Christmas Market is moving into the historic courtyard of Wicklow Gaol for 2026, with a German Alpine-style Christmas village replacing the usual prison-yard scenery. After relocating to Avondale in 2025, the market is back in Wicklow Town for five weekends of festive shopping.
What to expect at Christmas at Wicklow Gaol
Expect wooden chalets selling Christmas gifts, crafts and festive food, alongside live music and family entertainment. You can also book a Victorian Santa experience, character-led tours featuring Dickens and Scrooge, and Christmas workshops.
Christmas at Wicklow Gaol is free, so you can have a browse without spending a cent — unless something takes your fancy, of course!
Our tip: Wicklow Town’s Christmas lights and Santa parade take place on Sunday, 22 November, making opening weekend a good shout if you want to squeeze in even more festive cheer.
For the latest information, visit the official Wicklow Gaol website.
2. Beyond the Trees Avondale Christmas Market
Dates: 28–29 November; 4–6, 11–13 and 18–20 December 2026
Location: Beyond the Trees Avondale, Rathdrum, County Wicklow
Cost: Free market entry; parking costs €6 per car.
The Beyond the Trees Avondale Christmas Market is a great excuse to spend a day exploring Wicklow at Christmas, with indoor craft stalls, independent gifts and plenty of festive food to keep you going. Expect seasonal street food, artisan pizzas, crepes, churros, hot chocolate and mulled wine. Christmas shopping is hungry work, after all!
The indoor market runs across four weekends, making it a handy stop for anyone hunting for gifts that are a little more interesting than another pair of socks. Best of all, entry to the Beyond the Trees Avondale Christmas Market is free, although you’ll need to pay for parking and any additional attractions.
Our tip: Make Avondale your main festive outing in Wicklow if you want more than a wander around the market. Browse the stalls, grab something tasty and book an activity to round off the day. Just leave enough time to enjoy it all without turning Christmas cheer into a military operation!
For current market dates and venue updates, visit the official Beyond the Trees Avondale website.
3. Wicklow on Ice at Avondale
Dates: Selected dates from 14 November 2026 to 10 January 2027
Location: The Great Barn, Beyond the Trees Avondale, Rathdrum
Prices: €21 per adult and €19 per child aged 4–12 when booked online. Skate hire included.
Ice skating, Christmas markets and a woodland full of twinkling lights? Avondale is making a strong case for a festive day out in Wicklow this year. Wicklow on Ice brings an indoor ice-skating rink to the Great Barn at Beyond the Trees Avondale, giving families a chance to burn off some Christmas excitement without depending on the Irish weather.
Each skating session lasts 45 minutes, with skate hire included. Children must be at least four years old to skate, and online family tickets cost €55 for three people or €69 for four. Non-skating parents can watch for free, so there’s no need for the whole family to take to the ice.
Our tip: Book online to save on standard tickets, particularly if you’re visiting with the family. And if you’re a wobbly skater, don’t worry — you’re unlikely to be the only one clinging to the barrier!
Book through the official Wicklow on Ice website.
4. ILUMINA – Forest Lights Spectacular
Dates: 14 November 2026–1 February 2027, on selected dates
Location: Beyond the Trees Avondale, Rathdrum, County Wicklow
Admission: Separate ticket required; prices depend on your booking.
Christmas lights are lovely, but ILUMINA – Forest Lights Spectacular takes things well beyond a few fairy lights wrapped around a tree. Formerly known as Treetop Night Lights, this after-dark experience transforms the woodland at Beyond the Trees Avondale into an illuminated trail filled with glowing installations, projections and atmospheric sound.
The ILUMINA route includes the treetop walk and viewing tower, giving you a bird’s-eye view of the forest along the way. With more than 80 light installations advertised, it’s a proper evening experience rather than something you’ll squeeze in between browsing a few market stalls.
Best part? This ILUMINA attraction continues into the New Year, it’s also an option if you’re visiting Wicklow after Christmas.
Our tip: Wrap up warm and wear comfortable footwear. You’ll be exploring a woodland trail after dark, not wandering around a heated shopping centre — and Irish winter evenings don’t exactly do tropical.
Visit the official ILUMINA page for booking details.
5. Christmas at Avondale House
Dates: 27 November–22 December 2026
Location: Avondale House, Beyond the Trees Avondale, Rathdrum
Cost: Separate ticket required; book in advance.
If meeting Santa is top of the Christmas wish list, Christmas at Avondale House is another festive experience to add to your Wicklow itinerary. Set inside the historic house, this family attraction brings a bit of traditional Christmas magic to the estate, away from the market stalls and skating rink.
The Christmas at Avondale House programme includes festive games in the Great Hall, Christmas crafts and activities with Mrs Claus, followed by a one-to-one Santa visit in Parnell’s Study. Children also receive a traditional wooden toy, and the experience includes a complimentary hot chocolate or mulled wine.
Our tip: If you’re visiting with little ones, book Santa first and plan the rest of your day around your time slot. You don’t want to be explaining to a small child why Santa has had to leave for his tea before you’ve even arrived!
👉 Looking for even more festivities? Not to worry, we have all the information you need about the Best Christmas Markets in Ireland – Trust us, these Christmas Markets have you pretty much covered when it comes to family winter activities in Ireland.
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More Christmas Events Around County Wicklow
The main Wicklow Christmas Markets are only part of the county’s festive offering. If you’re visiting for a weekend or want to explore beyond Wicklow Town and Avondale, there are several other events to keep an eye on.
6. Christmas Island at Hidden Valley
Dates: 28 November–22 December 2026, on selected dates
Location: Hidden Valley Resort, Rathdrum, County Wicklow
Prices: €23.95 per adult, €36.95 per child aged 1–12, and €12.95 per infant under 1
Christmas Island at Hidden Valley is much more than a quick photo with Santa. This family experience takes you aboard the North Pole Express, through the Fairy Forest and on a journey across the lake on Santa’s House Boat before a personal visit with Santa himself.
Along the way, children can meet Mrs Claus and the elves, enjoy festive entertainment, make Christmas crafts and write letters to Santa. Every child receives a present, and there’s a Christmas cinema room for even more festive fun.
Optional extras include winter downhill tubing, family photographs and food, so check what’s included before booking. Overnight accommodation is also available through the Christmas Island website.
Our tip: Allow plenty of time to arrive before your scheduled departure, and book early if you need a particular date. This is a full Christmas adventure rather than a quick stop on your Wicklow Christmas itinerary.
Check the current programme and availability directly with Hidden Valley Resort before making plans.
7. Santa’s Cabin at Russborough House
Dates: 4–22 December 2026, according to Wicklow County Tourism
Location: Russborough House, near Blessington, County Wicklow
Santa’s Cabin at Russborough House is another family Christmas experience to look into, particularly if you’re exploring west Wicklow. It’s a Santa visit rather than a traditional Christmas market, so it works best as a separate festive outing.
8. Christmas at Killruddery
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Location: Killruddery House and Gardens, near Bray, County Wicklow
Killruddery has two festive options worth knowing about. MADE WELL – Irish Craft in Christmas Lights takes place on 21 and 22 November, from 9am to 9pm, with free admission to Killruddery Yard and the Farm Shop. Expect Irish craftsmanship, independent makers, seasonal shopping and food in the illuminated courtyard.
Families can also book Visit Santa Claus at Killruddery, running on selected dates from 14 November to 23 December. The experience includes festive creative activities with Santa’s elves, a visit with Santa and a small gift for each child. Tickets are €29.50 per child, or €12 for children under two; accompanying adults enter free. Advance booking is essential.
Our tip: If you’re after Christmas gifts rather than another Santa visit, MADE WELL is the one to put in the diary.
9. Santa at Powerscourt
Dates: 21 November–23 December 2026
Location: Avoca Powerscourt, near Enniskerry, County Wicklow
Price: €18 per child, plus a €1.50 booking fee; accompanying adults go free, with a maximum of four adults per booking.
Santa is returning to Avoca Powerscourt for the 2026 festive season. It’s a handy option for families visiting Enniskerry or combining a Christmas outing with a wander around the Powerscourt area.
Santa visits must be booked online, and the ticket is specifically for Avoca Powerscourt. Optional festive treats, including hot chocolate and mince pies, are available at additional cost.
Our tip: Book your Santa slot first, then plan the rest of your visit around it. The run-up to Christmas gets busy, and nobody wants a last-minute scramble when the main event is waiting.
10. Christmas lights and switch-on events in Wicklow
You don’t need to book a ticket for every festive outing. Town-centre Christmas lights and Santa parades are a simple way to enjoy Wicklow at Christmas, especially if you’re already visiting a market.
Current 2026 listings include:
- Bray: Christmas lights switch-on at Civic Plaza on Saturday, 21 November, from 4:30pm.
- Greystones: Christmas lights and Santa celebrations in Burnaby Park on Saturday, 21 November, from 4:30pm.
- Wicklow Town: Santa parade and Christmas lights switch-on on Sunday, 22 November, with music from 4pm and Santa departing Wicklow Gaol at 4:30pm.
For a wider overview, Wicklow County Tourism is a useful starting point for finding seasonal events across the county.
If you want more festive-focused, family-friendly ideas, check out our full Christmas guide for the best activities across Ireland.
Where to Stay for Wicklow at Christmas
If you’re travelling from outside the county, staying overnight gives you more flexibility to explore Wicklow at Christmas without rushing back to Dublin or elsewhere.
- Rathdrum and Avondale: A practical base if your main priorities are the Avondale Christmas market, Wicklow on Ice and ILUMINA. Staying nearby can make an evening lights visit easier to organise.
- Wicklow Town: A good option if you want to focus on Christmas at Wicklow Gaol and explore the town itself. You’ll also have access to local restaurants, shops and the coast.
- Bray or Greystones: Worth considering if you’re visiting the northern part of the county, particularly if you want to explore the coastal towns and check out their seasonal events.
- Blessington: A useful base if you’re planning to explore west Wicklow or visit Russborough House.
👉 Looking for more budget-friendly inspiration? Check out our guide to the best free things to do in Dublin this winter.
Our Top Picks for a Wicklow Christmas
We’ve selected these properties based on their proximity, guest ratings, and that special festive “X-factor” that makes a Wicklow winter trip memorable.
- Best for Total Convenience: The Bridge Tavern – Located right in the heart of Wicklow Town, this is our top recommendation for anyone wanting to be in the middle of the action. You’re steps away from the town center, meaning you can walk to the Wicklow Christmas Markets and enjoy the evening lights without worrying about transport. It offers a perfect blend of cosy, high-quality rooms and a lively, authentic Irish pub downstairs, perfect for a warm drink after a cold day.
- Halpins Townhouse: For those who prefer a traditional, intimate B&B experience right in the town centre. It’s perfect for a classic, cosy Irish stay.
- Best for a Magical Escape: BrookLodge & Macreddin Village – If you’re after a truly unique festive experience, this is where we personally love to stay. The village-like estate feels like a storybook setting, especially in the winter months. It’s a bit of a drive from the town center, but the trade-off is an incredibly tranquil, eco-conscious retreat with an award-winning spa and two exceptional restaurants. It’s the ultimate way to “switch off” and lean into the holiday spirit.
- Best for Families: Druids Glen Hotel & Golf Resort – For those traveling with family, Druids Glen is a consistently reliable choice. It offers the space and facilities (like an indoor pool and extensive grounds) that make traveling with children much easier. The resort-style service is polished and professional, ensuring that your festive break in Wicklow is as stress-free as it is fun.
- Best for Scenic Tranquility: Tulfarris Hotel & Golf Resort – Situated on the shores of the Blessington Lakes, Tulfarris offers stunning, moody winter landscapes that are perfect for photography. If you prefer a quiet, scenic sanctuary over a busy town-centre hotel, this provides a sophisticated and peaceful backdrop to your Wicklow trip.
Why We Love the BrookLodge Experience
We always advocate for a stay at BrookLodge & Macreddin Village because it offers that rare feeling of total immersion in the Christmas-in-Wicklow vibe.
Our Pro Tip: We loved spending our evenings by the giant fireplace in the lobby—there is something genuinely therapeutic about unwinding there with a glass of wine after a day of exploring the rugged Wicklow hills. It’s these small, cozy details that transform a standard trip into a highlight of your year. If you can, book their organic dining experience at The Strawberry Tree; it’s not just a meal, it’s a full appreciation of local, seasonal Irish produce that feels perfectly suited to a festive getaway.
👉 Find these magical stays and more in our top Family Christmas Hotel Breaks in Ireland
How to Get to the Wicklow Christmas Markets
Wicklow is an easy Christmas escape from Dublin, but transport depends on where you’re heading. Wicklow Town has a railway station, while Beyond the Trees Avondale is outside Rathdrum, so check your onward journey before setting off.
Exploring Wicklow This Christmas?
Want to visit Wicklow’s Christmas markets, woodland light trails and festive attractions? Having a car makes it easier to explore beyond the towns and fit more into your Irish adventure.
Quick tip: Remember, we drive on the LEFT in Ireland!
Getting to Wicklow Town
Wicklow Town is on the Dublin–Rosslare railway line, making the train a handy option if you’re visiting Christmas at Wicklow Gaol without a car. Check Irish Rail’s timetable for your chosen date and allow time to get from the station to the Gaol.
Local buses also serve Wicklow Town. If you’re planning to stay for evening entertainment, check the return timetable before you go rather than discovering the last bus has disappeared into the Christmas mist.
Driving gives you more flexibility, particularly if you’re carrying Christmas shopping. Check Wicklow Town’s current parking arrangements before travelling, including any event-specific information for Wicklow Gaol.
👉 Discover even more inspiration for the best things to do in Ireland in winter.
Getting to Beyond the Trees Avondale
Beyond the Trees Avondale is near Rathdrum in south County Wicklow. Driving is the simplest option for many visitors, with on-site parking advertised at €6 per car.
You can also travel by train to Rathdrum, but you’ll need to organise the onward journey to Avondale. TFI Local Link services operate in the wider area, including route 183, but check the current route, stops and timetable before relying on the bus to get you there.
If you’re combining the Christmas market with Wicklow on Ice, Christmas at Avondale House or ILUMINA, a car gives you more flexibility. Just remember that the market, skating, Santa experience and woodland lights have separate ticket arrangements.
Can you visit both Christmas markets in one day?
Yes, visiting Christmas at Wicklow Gaol and Beyond the Trees Avondale in one day is possible, provided their opening times line up with your plans and you allow enough time to travel between Wicklow Town and Rathdrum.
The two markets share several dates in late November and December, so a double-market day could work if Christmas shopping is your main priority.
However, if you want to add ice skating, a Santa visit or ILUMINA, I’d spread the attractions across a weekend. There’s festive fun to be had without turning your Christmas break into a military operation.
Other Things to Do in Wicklow at Christmas
Beyond the Christmas festivities, there are lots of great things to do in Wicklow. Check our some of our top-rated Wicklow tours below:
- Glendalough Monastic Site: A must-do regardless of the season. In December, the mist over the two lakes and the stark silhouettes of the round tower provide a haunting, beautiful atmosphere that is much quieter than the summer months.
- Powerscourt Waterfall: Ireland’s tallest waterfall is particularly dramatic in winter when seasonal rainfall ensures the cascade is at its most powerful.
- The Chocolate Garden of Ireland: Located in Shillelagh, this is a fantastic, family-friendly winter activity. They offer chocolate-making workshops that are the perfect counterpoint to the outdoor Wicklow Christmas Market experience.
Up for a festive road trip? Consider visiting some of our Hidden Christmas Towns in Ireland for even more seasonal inspiration.
Pro Tips for Visiting Wicklow at Christmas
To ensure your visit to Wicklow Christmas Markets is as smooth and enjoyable as possible, keep these expert insights in mind while planning your trip.
- Master the Weather: Irish winter weather is notoriously unpredictable. The secret to a comfortable day is dressing in layers. Start with a moisture-wicking base, add a warm fleece or wool mid-layer, and finish with a high-quality, waterproof jacket. Don’t forget a warm hat, gloves, and a scarf—they’ll be your best friends during those long, chilly evenings by the outdoor stalls.
- Timing is Everything: Because the Wicklow Christmas Market is a weekend-only event, Saturdays and Sundays are the natural focal points for visitors. To get the most out of your experience, aim to arrive early on Saturday morning (typically at 10:00 am). You’ll beat the afternoon rush, have shorter wait times for the popular food stalls, and catch the best natural light for your photos before the walkways become crowded. If you’re looking for a quieter atmosphere, Sunday mornings are often slightly more relaxed than Saturdays, as many day-trippers from Dublin tend to arrive later in the day.
- Stay Flexible with Payment: While most vendors now accept contactless and card payments, always keep a small amount of cash on hand. Some smaller artisan producers at rural craft fairs still prefer physical currency, and it’s a lifesaver if you find yourself at a remote stall that’s having trouble with its mobile signal.
- Maximize Your Daylight: Remember that winter sunset in Ireland happens early—often before 5:00 pm. Plan your outdoor activities (like a walk at Glendalough or the Treetop Night Lights) for the middle of the day to make the most of the natural light, saving the evening for the glowing, festive market atmosphere.
- Bring a Reusable Bag: Wicklow markets are committed to sustainability, and many stalls are moving away from providing single-use plastic bags. Keep a compact, foldable tote in your backpack for all those one-of-a-kind treasures and artisan gifts you’re bound to pick up.
- Prioritize “Warm-Up” Stops: Don’t try to power through the cold all day. Build your itinerary around “warm-up” breaks. Whether it’s a traditional Irish pub, a local café, or the cozy lobby of a nearby hotel, stepping inside for 20 minutes to enjoy a hot chocolate or a local craft ale will keep your energy—and your festive spirits—high.
- Check Transport Before You Depart: If you aren’t driving, familiarize yourself with the TFI (Transport for Ireland) app. It’s the most reliable way to track local bus and train services in real-time, especially if you’re traveling to spots like Rathdrum for Avondale or the coastal towns along the rail line.
Our Personal Experience: We’ve found that the best way to tackle the Wicklow Christmas Market is to arrive early, spend a few hours browsing the stalls when they’re quiet, and then head to a local restaurant for a late lunch once the midday hunger hits. It lets you avoid the main lunchtime queues at the market food stalls, meaning you have more time to head back for an evening of mulled wine and live music once the lights turn on.
FAQs About Christmas in Wicklow
What are the best things to do in Wicklow at Christmas?
The best things to do in Wicklow at Christmas include visiting Christmas at Wicklow Gaol, exploring the festive attractions at Beyond the Trees Avondale, going ice skating and enjoying illuminated woodland trails. You’ll also find Santa experiences, local Christmas markets and festive events around the county.
Where are the best Christmas markets in Wicklow?
Two of the main festive destinations are Christmas at Wicklow Gaol in Wicklow Town and the Christmas market at Beyond the Trees Avondale near Rathdrum. Both offer different experiences, so you can choose between a historic town setting and a festive woodland day out.
When do Christmas events in Wicklow start in 2026?
Christmas events in Wicklow begin in November 2026, with attractions and markets running on selected dates through November and December. Some seasonal attractions, including illuminated trails, continue into January or February 2027. Always check individual event calendars before visiting, as opening dates vary.
Are there free things to do in Wicklow at Christmas?
Yes, you can look for free Christmas markets, town Christmas lights and local festive events throughout County Wicklow. However, some of the bigger attractions, including ice skating, illuminated trails and Santa experiences, require separate tickets. Check admission and parking costs before you travel.
Can you visit Wicklow at Christmas without a car?
Yes, but you’ll need to plan your transport carefully. Wicklow Town and Rathdrum have railway stations, and bus services connect some towns across the county. However, reaching countryside attractions such as Beyond the Trees Avondale may require onward transport, so check public transport connections before setting off.
👉 If you are venturing further afield, don’t forget to check out the best Christmas Markets in Europe and all-out best European winter festivals.
Final Thoughts: Is Wicklow Worth Visiting at Christmas?
Absolutely. If you’re looking for Christmas markets in Ireland without sticking to the biggest cities, Wicklow offers a lovely mix of festive shopping, family activities and winter scenery.
The return of the main Wicklow Christmas Market to Wicklow Town gives visitors a new historic setting to explore, while Beyond the Trees Avondale offers enough extra activities to turn a market visit into a full day out.
Whether you’re browsing artisan gifts, trying your hand at ice skating or wandering through an illuminated woodland after dark, there’s plenty of choice for a festive escape in the Garden of Ireland.
Just remember to check the dates, book any ticketed experiences in advance and leave a little room in the itinerary for an unplanned coffee or a browse around somewhere you hadn’t intended to visit. That’s often where the best days out happen.
Thank you for joining us on this journey through Wicklow Christmas Markets. Why don’t you let us know how you get on visiting Wicklow at Christmas?
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