Dublin is simply magical at Christmas time. There is no place we’d rather be than among the crowd on Grafton Street, admiring the sparkling Christmas lights or hearing the talented buskers take on some festive carols. Saving money on overpriced city hotels means you have more to spend on gifts and experiences for your family and friends. DCU Rooms is your ideal value accommodation in Dublin this Christmas, offering great value and excellent facilities too. Here are our favourite things to do in Dublin this festive season
Grafton Street
Grafton Street comes alive from late November with thousands of lights and Christmas decorations overhead and in every shop window. The buskers give their unique version of much-loved classic carols and the flower stalls add an extra burst of colour. Make sure to walk past Brown Thomas and admire their gorgeous Christmas themed windows. The magic doesn’t stop on the main street, the side streets are illuminated, and busy shoppers are out in force looking for a Christmas bargain.
Wild Lights
In what has become one of our newest Christmas traditions, Dublin Zoo in the Phoenix Park is back! Zoos aren’t often associated with Christmas, but Dublin Zoo comes alive as soon as it gets dark. Each year from mid-November there are hundreds of handmade lanterns and figures in the shape of weird and wonderful animals and characters from fairy tales. Each lights up as part of a magical display that is sure to get you in the Christmas Spirit! Tickets are limited and this is a very popular event so buy them soon to avoid disappointment.
Carols in Christchurch
If you’re not impressed by the gorgeous Georgian architecture in Dublin, Christchurch’s imposing gothic presence will definitely impress. Christmas in Christchurch is a very special affair and not just because of the giant Christmas tree. Carols by Candlelight is one of the most popular carol services in the city and for good reason. The setting, coupled with the talented choir and its director is something you’ll never forget. They perform a mix of traditional music and modern favourites and there are complimentary festive refreshments including a warming mulled wine at the interval.
The Helix Panto
It’s not Christmas without a chorus of ‘He’s Behind You!!’. Each year, The Helix – just steps away from DCU Rooms – hosts one of the best Pantos in the city. This year, TheatreworX is back with their interpretation of ‘The Three Musketeers’. Pantos are great fun for families, couples and groups of friends and a great way to get into the festive mood. Every year, the sets, scenes and scripts are fantastic in the Helix Panto and it’s perfectly cast with many talented actors, dancers, and performers. The little ones love the zany characters and costumes while the grown-ups love the ‘adult’ jokes that go straight over their heads!
Visit Santa in GPO
Nothing gets families more excited around Christmas time than seeing the man in red. While his helpers make an appearance in department stores across the city, for an unforgettable experience in a very significant and impressive building, visit Santa in the GPO. You’ll meet the postmaster, the elves and Mrs. Claus and learn how the letters get all the way from the Post office to the North Pole. As well as exploring one of the oldest buildings in Dublin, you’ll also visit the secret grotto hidden in the GPO Courtyard. The entry also includes a self-guided tour of the museum, a photo with the big man and a surprise gift.
If you’re looking for great value accommodation across this festive season, look no further than DCU Rooms. We’re in an ideal location to explore Dublin’s Christmas festivities and just steps away from the famous Helix Panto.
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