It’s finally here! After weeks of beautiful autumn days, soft falls of orange leaves and the distant buzz of Halloween, the start of a new season has been launched. And how do we know that the times are a changing? The Christmas lights are up in Dublin! Last week, Grafton Street unveiled its festive illuminations, marking the start of the Christmas season in Dublin. With a good few weeks left until the big day, we’ve rounded up some things you have to do in Dublin this Christmas season.

Have a Festive Afternoon Tea in The Westbury

It’s known as one of the quintessentially Christmas things to do in Dublin – after a morning spent tackling the present list in the shops, indulge in an Afternoon Tea in The Gallery. You can keep cosy and warm in the beautifully decorated space, with the windows overlooking the shoppers below. You’ll tuck into delicately beautiful pastries and sandwiches, along with a choice of luxurious teas (with the Tea Master at hand for advice, of course).

Take in some carol singing

Nothing will evoke the spirit of Christmas more than carol singing. And while the infamous evening of carol singing held in Christchurch Cathedral always sells out almost instantly, there are plenty of other concerts held throughout the city. Carols by Candlelight is held in the National Concert Hall (in full period dress, no less!)

Watch the buskers on Grafton Street

If you’d rather something a little more modern than carolling, take a few moments to experience the buskers who set up shop on Grafton Street. And, don’t forget, the buskers may seem all the more familiar on Christmas Eve… Glen Hansard, Bono and Hozier have been known to raise money for charity by busking the day before Christmas.

Watch a Panto in The Gaiety

Nothing says Christmas like a pantomime, and this season, you can catch Robin Hood and His Merry Men at The Gaiety Theatre. The show will be sure to put everyone in the festive spirit, especially little ones. And to make it all the more special, The Westbury has a Pantomime Experience available to book. As well as an overnight stay with a Full Irish breakfast for two adults and two kids and four tickets to the panto, there are a number of surprises in the room. Kids will love the luxury tee pee that will be set up, as well as a storybook and treats, including hot chocolate at bedtime.

Shop for Irish Design

Until 24^th December, a series of Irish Design pop ups will be held in The Westbury Mall, showcasing the best of unique work made right here in Ireland. You can read our recent post detailing who will be featured here. If you need to pick up a gift for someone special, it could well be the perfect spot.