It seems like the run up to Christmas has been a long one this year, but now the countdown to the big day is on and everyone is embracing the festive season. The decorations are up, the weather is pleasingly frosty and fireplaces all around the city are roaring, surrounded by people looking to warm the cockles.

So while it’s not difficult to feel festive in Dublin at the moment, there are certain places where it would be impossible not to get in the Christmas spirit. Here are our suggestions for the best Christmassy things to do around Dublin…

Listen to Carols in St Patrick’s Cathedral

Nothing will make you feel Christmassy faster than hearing some carol singing. And if you’re listening within the incredible structure of St Patrick’s Cathedral, it’s all the more impressive. Just a short walk from The Westbury (about 13 minutes, to be precise) St Patrick’s Cathedral is a beautiful at the best of times, but really comes into its own at Christmas. On December 16^th, the London Concertante are performing Christmas Baroque by candlelight, and every Sunday until Christmas there is an afternoon service with carols sung by the choir. You can see more (including booking information for the Christmas Baroque) on the website. 

Take a hot chocolate to Stephen’s Green

On a cold winter’s morning, nothing beats the beauty of Stephen’s Green. The lawns are covered with a fine sprinkling of frost, the ducks swim in the ponds and people walk through the green, bundled up in scarves and hats, to take it all in. Pick up a hot chocolate nearby and take your time wandering through the weaving paths and pagodas.

Enjoy a Festive Afternoon Tea in The Westbury

A Christmas tradition that has been going strong in Dublin for years, the Festive Afternoon Tea is a quintessential experience for this time of year. Head in after hitting the shops on Grafton Street and enjoy not only a delectable afternoon tea, but also beautiful festive decorations throughout The Gallery. The Christmas tree in the lobby is particularly impressive, too.

Go to a Christmas Market

There are plenty of Christmas markets around the city, varying from small neighbourhood affairs to large-scale set ups. Here, you can pick up gifts from Irish designers, decorations and, of course, some mulled wine. Check out Winter Funderland at the RDS, which opens daily from December 14^th, and the Apres Village at CHQ.  

Watch a feel-good movie

Nothing beats a good Christmas movie, and there are plenty of cinemas around the city that embrace the theme at this time of year. Check out the Irish Film Institute – they’re screening A Christmas Story and It’s A Wonderful Life, which is paired with a specially chosen dish in the restaurant. In the Light House Cinema, there’s a season of Christmas movies for moviegoers of all ages, from Elf and Home Alone to Die Hard and Love Actually.