The Top 5 Christmas Traditions In Dublin

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With Christmas just around the corner, and the sweet freedom of holidays within reach, it’s time to start ticking off the annual traditions off your list.

For some the season begins when that infamous red juggernaut appears on television screens, or John Lewis. For others, it may be helping decorate the tree at home, watching The Late Late Toy Show, or when the the Christmas puddings are made.

But what if you never had any traditions to begin with? Here’s a few fun festive things to do before December 25, so you can get the ball rolling on your own list…

1. The Live Crib

Ever since I was teeny tiny, I’ve paid a visit to the Live Crib every Christmas. Stationed just outside the Mansion House, there’s a traditional crib complete with animals which travel to and from the city each evening when their day’s work is done.

You can hang out with the sheep, donkeys and baby Jesus in the manger on your lunch break, soaking up the real farm yard smell. Just plain lovely.

2. Seasonal beverage

Mulled wine, hot whiskey or spiced cider – whatever your poison, a hot alcoholic drink warms your heart and put fire in your belly when it’s frosty out.

There’s a tonne of great spots to grab a hot whiskey all around the city, check out our list here.

3. Christmas Eve on Grafton Street

While some of us will be leaving the Big Shmoke to return to our families outside the Pale for Christmas, there’s a treat in store for those who will be celebrating in Dublin.

Each Christmas Eve a melange of well known Irish musicians take to the streets to busk for charity. Previous Christmases have seen members of U2, Lisa Hannigan, Glen Hansard, Damien Rice and plenty more in between. So take a gander as you amble around during your last minute shopping, you never know who you might encounter.

4. Pints in your local

With pals from across the globe returning for the festive season, you cannot replicate the joyous feeling of your squad being reunited for pints in your local on Christmas Eve. With plenty of stories to tell, and hilarious catch ups to be had, this is one of my favourite ways to kickstart the holidays in high spirits.

5. Christmas Day swim

Yes it’ll be freezing, but you’ll have loads to boast about for the rest of the day. Hopping in the ocean in sub zero temperatures completely justifies demanding triple servings of stuffing later to get your strength back!

With most swims collecting money for different charities, throw some money in the pot, fling on your Santa hat and jump in the sea – sure it’ll only be lovely once you’re in.