6 Cork Christmas Markets to visit in 2023
Last Updated: 16/11/2023 | 4 Minute Read
Are you looking for the perfect place to get into the holiday spirit? Look no further than the Cork Christmas Market! With its festive atmosphere, delicious food, and unique gifts, this market is a must-visit for locals and tourists alike.
The Cork Christmas Market is an annual event that takes place in the heart of Cork City. It is one of the largest and most popular Christmas markets in Ireland, attracting thousands of visitors each year. The market features a wide variety of stalls selling everything from handmade crafts to mouth-watering treats.
Whether you're searching for the perfect Christmas gift, craving some festive food, or simply want to soak up the holiday atmosphere, the Cork Christmas Market has something for everyone. In this article, we will explore the highlights of this magical market and why it should be on your holiday to-do list.
Christmas at the Marina Market, Cork City
Launching on the 24th of November, the Marina Christmas Market has moved to a smaller venue but it feels more personable and wholesome. The market will have stalls for finding the perfect gifts from local traders as well as live music every day.
The market will have an Ice Rink so pack warm clothes for your trip here. The rink is a fun way to start the festive season. If skating isn't your thing, then have a hot chocolate on the sidelines and watch as the crowd skates. On Ice at the Marina Market runs from now until the 7th of January with family tickets available.
The real magic happens in Santa's market at the Marina. The tour starts with the walk though the woods, smelling the fresh pine from the trees. Next Up, All aboard the Polar Express, travel through the snow storm in this perfect photo opportunity.
Once you get off the train, meet the elves at the workshop. Build toys with the elves before you visit Mrs. Claus bakery. Decorate your festive treats with the helpful Mrs. Claus and write your letter to Santa. Finally it's time to meet Santa in his Grotto and get an amazing picture taken with the big man himself.
Cobh's Early Bird Christmas Arts & Craft Fair
The early bird catches the worm, and Cobh have an early market planned this year for festive crafts. Market stalls will offer handmade gifts, artisan foods and stunning crafts. The Cobh Christmas Market will run on the 25th and 26th of November 2023.
If you attend on the Sunday 26th then stay around for the official Christmas Lights ceremony. Kicking off at 5.30pm, the town will become illuminated with a festive buzz. Grab a hot drink from one of the local stalls and revel in the festive cheer.
Charleville Indoor Christmas Market
Another excellent festive event takes place in Charleville. For one day only, Charleville park Hotel welcomes over 70 market stalls into the atrium for a festive afternoon. Choose from local crafts to a wide range of handmade luxuries from Cork creators and artisan food producers.
Entry is free to the Festive Market and it is a brilliant community event for the festive calendar.
Mitchelstown Christmas Market
A magical experience for kids and adults alike awaits you at Mitchelstown Christmas Market at the community centre.
There is plenty of festive fun on display. Mrs. Claus needs a helping hand in her kitchen as she prepares delicious sweet treats and gingerbread men.
Once that's done, you can write your letter to Santa in his study and pop it in one of the special post boxes directly headed for the North Pole. There, you can meet the Sugar Plum Fairy and make a wish in the market's magical lake.
Finally, visit Santa in his grotto, where all kids will be presented with a special present from the North Pole - and many more surprises that we don't want to give away!
Discover your magical experience in Mitchelstown Community Centre!
Glow Cork
Cork City Council are delighted to announce the return of Glow Cork, otherwise known as A Cork Christmas Celebration. Glow takes place all over Cork City with Bishop Lucey park a hot spot during the festive season.
Glow Cork is comprised of a number of things such as the Giant Wheel on the Grand parade. Along with tonnes of events around the city, check out the Glow event guide on the city council website now.
Solas will light up the Glow of the city, this new event illuminated the city this winter. Launching on November 18th, it's a brilliant way to explore Glow Cork and the illuminations on offer.
The Wrap Up
There are 5 main Christmas Markets to Visit in Cork this winter, From Glow Cork to the Indoor Market in Charleville you are sure to find a brilliant event for you and the family.
This holiday season tour the wooden chalets of the Marina market and explore the winter wonderland of Santa's Market next door. Change it up and have a special Cork Experience at Glow and the Amazing Market stalls of Charleville.
This year, discover Ireland with Travelodge.