If you’re in the mood for a holiday getaway, you’re certainly not alone. In fact, aviation data company FlightAware estimates that there is an average of 9,728 planes carrying 1.27 million people in the air at any given moment, and the holiday season is one of the most popular times of the year for both domestic and international travel.
Of course, there’s something to be said about visiting a new country and experiencing their authentic holiday experience. For example, Catholicism remains the dominant religion in Ireland at 84%, and those visiting the Emerald Isle this season will have countless opportunities to attend events and get into the authentic Irish Christmas experience. Here are just a few of the top-rated Christmas markets of the season in the Emerald Isle.
Belfast Christmas Market
The Belfast Christmas Market has been an Ireland staple for years, and officials say this year it’s “promising a bigger and better experience than ever before.” This marketing is particularly noted for its incredible variety of foods. If you thought 43.3 million foreign-born people living in the U.S. brought a wide selection of cuisines, wait until you experience this year’s Belfast food market. This year, it’s boasting more than 30 nationalities, encouraging guests to “eat their way around the world.” Yum!
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Slane Distillery Christmas Market
If you’ve ever heard of or enjoyed Slane Whiskey in the states, you’ll love visiting the distillery where new batches are crafted. This year the company held its very first tree lighting ceremony, complete with local product offerings, a bar, and more. The market will feature these amenities over multiple weekends this month:
“Located on the grounds of the iconic Slane Castle, Slane Distillery Christmas Market will take place in the courtyard at the center of the former Georgian stables. As Slane village is a prominent member of the Boyne Valley Food Trail, you can expect quality local produce and gifts to be on sale at this market, plus a range of Slane Distillery products. As well as that, there will be food trucks, a bar serving Slane Winter Spiced Apple Punch and live entertainment at the market,” says IrishCentral.
We don’t know about you, but this sounds like a once-in-a-lifetime experience. From local food offerings to the experience of seeing how this beautiful whiskey is made, there’s something for every traveler in your party.
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Galway Christmas Market
Many people consider Galway Christmas Market to be the most popular Christmas event in Ireland with approximately 350,000 attendees last year alone. The market is now in its ninth season, which also grants it the title of Ireland’s longest running Christmas market. Complete with a Ferris wheel and games for children, this market is a seasonal event that’s fun for the whole family. Don’t forget to check out the more than 50 vendors the market has to offer, which provide all sorts of gift items. You’ll find clothing, accessories like sunglasses (which are worn by about 75% of adults) and other fun and seasonal trinkets, making it the perfect chance to do some last-minute Christmas shopping. Some stalls also offer artisanal food and drink, and there are several beer tents as well.
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Ultimately, you’ll find no shortage of holiday cheer in the one-of-a-kind Emerald Isle. Treat yourself to some seasonal events and enjoy all that Ireland has to offer.