Grafton Street is fully lit up, the shops are buzzing and the Christmas trees are all  standing proud. Christmas in the city is finally here, and we have a roundup of all the things you need to do in the run up to the day itself. 

Guinness Choir Christmas Concert

There’s nothing like Christmas music to get you in the spirit of the season. But instead of festive classics on the radio, why not pay a visit to the gorgeous St. Patrick’s Cathedral, which is hosting the Guinness Choir’s Christmas Concert on December 6^th? The show will feature works by Ralph Vaughan Williams, as well as early and modern Christmas carols.
Image courtesy of Damien du Toit.
How: Tickets cost €15.
See:  www.guinnesschoir.org

Shop at The Powerscourt Centre

The Powerscourt Centre is in the heart of Dublin’s Creative Quarter, featuring some of the best independent shops in the country. While the decorations are up and glittering, Christmas really doesn’t start until Santa makes an appearance this coming Saturday. His workshop and grotto is filled with 18^th century charm, complete with toasty fire and sparkling lights. Kids will also leave with a gift and commemorative photo.
How:The grotto and workshop is open this Saturday 5^th - tickets to the grotto cost €12.
See:  www.powerscourtcentre.ie

Afternoon Tea at The Westbury

It’s a Christmas tradition for many: give yourself a break from the Christmas shopping on Grafton Street and pop into The Westbury for a sumptuous Afternoon Tea. The Gallery is beautifully decorated, with festive flowers and a stunning tree, and the menu is perfectly seasonal. Sandwiches include smoked turkey breast salad with cranberry chutney on brioche, while sweet-tooths will be satisfied with treats like chocolate and pistachio eclairs, chestnut panna cotta with Christmas jam and mulled wine macaroons.
How: The Westbury Festive Afternoon Tea is €45, or €55 with champagne.
See:  www.doylecollection.com/hotels/the-westbury-hotel/dining/afternoon-tea

Smock Alley Christmas Fayre

It only started last year, but the Smock Alley Christmas Fayre is already a must-do at Christmas. Held in the theatre’s grand Banquet Hall, the fayre is filled with stalls selling everything from crafts and jewellery to clothing and books. There will be carolers, readings and film screenings for kids, to keep them occupied while you shop.
How: Entrance is free.
See:  http://smockalley.com/christmas-fayre-2015/

Christmas Flower School with Appassionata

Ever wanted to make your own Christmas wreath? You can learn how to do just that with Appassionata, the floral experts (who are also responsible for The Westbury’s beautiful arrangements). The 2-hour workshops are held in the Westbury Gallery, and you’ll be supplied with everything you need to take home a stunning wreath for your front door. Read our post about how Appassionata create festive displays for The Westbury here.
How: Workshops start on December 8^th and cost €150.
See:  www.appassionata.ie

For more events taking place in Dublin this Christmas, see www.dublinatchristmas.ie.