Between buying presents, party outfits, drink, decorations and more, Christmas can be hella expensive.
If you’re looking to save your pennies but still get in the festive spirit, here are 7 Christmassy things you can do for free in Dublin this year.
1. The Snowman
Head to St Patrick’s Cathedral on December 23 to hear the timeless tale of James and the Snowman, narrated by Morgan Crowley with help from the church choir.
There’ll be a collection in aid of LauraLynn Children’s Hospice at the end of the event if you want to donate but entry is free.
Image credit: St. Patrick’s Cathedral Dublin
2. Dun Laoghaire Christmas Market
The lovely Dun Laoghaire Christmas Market will be open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from December 18.
There’ll be festive food and drink, handcrafted gifts and decorations, and a funfair with an old-world children’s carousel.
Obviously you have to pay if you want to buy anything but it costs nothing to have a browse!
3. The Live Crib
A super cute live animal crib will be open at the Mansion House until Christmas Eve.
The crib has been a tradition in Dublin for 23 years.
4. Christmas Eve busking
The likes of Bono, Glen Hansard and Hozier have been known to busk on Grafton Street to raise money for charity on Christmas Eve.
Last year the event had to end early because of overcrowding fears so let’s hope it still goes ahead!
#Bono – Grafton Street Busking – Dublin – 24.12.2015 #U2https://t.co/F6Ja4i530A pic.twitter.com/6Pmxoulnh0
— U2 – Vision (@U2_Vision) December 24, 2016
5. Puppet Theatre
Travelling marionette theatre company The Moon and Sixpence will be performing at the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre on Sunday December 17 at 1.30pm and 3pm.
6. Christmas strolling
There’s nothing quite like wandering down Grafton Street after dark at Christmastime.
Bonus points if you soak up the festive atmosphere in the newly reopened Bewleys.
7. Dundrum Christmas Village
Make sure you check out the magical Christmas Village in Dundrum Town Square, where you’ll find ice-skating, drinks stalls, Santa’s grotto and more.
A great place to get in the Christmas spirit even if you’re not splashing out!
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