Updated November 2026–Ireland in November might not be everyone’s first choice for a vacation, but there’s plenty to enjoy if you don’t mind packing an extra layer of clothing in your luggage and planning around shorter days.
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November in Ireland means that Christmas markets start to bring a festive glow to the country’s towns and cities, while arts festivals are a welcome addition to a winter travel itinerary, and museums offer the alternative to enjoy something interesting if the weather turns wet.
It can also be a good time for a budget-friendly trip. You may find better-value accommodation than during the summer, although festival weekends and popular Christmas events can push prices up.
Whether you’re interested in Irish films, literary events, local history, or a little early Christmas shopping, here are 21 things to do and see in Ireland this November.
Planning Note: Event schedules, ticket prices, and opening hours can change. Check the websites listed below before booking accommodation or traveling specifically for an event.
What to Expect in Ireland in November
November brings cool weather, frequent showers, and shorter daylight hours. You can still enjoy sightseeing outdoors, but it helps to have an indoor alternative ready.
Pack a down jacket or coat, comfortable water-resistant shoes, and layers that you can add or remove throughout the day.
A warm hat and gloves are useful for Christmas markets and generally being out and about.
Plan countryside drives and outdoor sightseeing for daylight hours, leaving museums, performances, and festive markets for later.
1. Allingham Arts Festival
2026 dates: November 4th–8th
Location: Ballyshannon, County Donegal
This popular arts festival is a staple in Ballyshannon, County Donegal and features a lot of local talent, as well as artists from out of town.
The annual event is a celebration of the life and work of poet William Allingham, who lived in the town, as well as his wife and artist, Helen Allingham.
Festival events include workshops in poetry, creative writing, digital storytelling, art & design, fine art, and singer-songwriter performances.
This is a great reason to spend time in this corner of Donegal and experience a town through its cultural life.
Budget Tip: Look through the full program before buying tickets. The festival includes free events, allowing you to mix those with a paid performance or workshop.
Christmas Markets in Ireland, November-December
You don’t have to wait until December to enjoy Ireland’s Christmas markets.
Several begin in November, offering festive food, handmade gifts, seasonal entertainment, and illuminated streets. They’re particularly enjoyable after dark, when the lights help brighten those long winter evenings.
2. The Galway Christmas Market
2026 Dates: Nov. 6th-Dec. 22nd
Location: Eyre Square, Galway
This is the longest-running holiday market in the country, which will open this year on Nov. 6th and will run until Dec. 22nd.
The Big Wheel and vintage amusements will be up until Jan. 3, 2027.
If you’re staying in Galway in November, why not spend a couple of hours exploring the 50+ stalls that are expected to participate in this year’s event?
No doubt you’ll find an Irish souvenir that you can bring home with you, along with a wide selection of crafts and other items suitable for the holidays.
There is also plenty to keep kids and adults happy while enjoying the Christmas Market in Galway,
A Ferris wheel, Santa’s express train, and a carousel are just some of the attractions that children will love, while adults will have the opportunity to stop by its German Bier Keller.
Allow time to explore Galway’s independent shops and cafés too. The market is only one part of the city’s winter appeal.
Budget Tip: Set a spending limit for food, gifts, and rides before you arrive. Browsing is enjoyable, but small purchases can quickly add up.
3. Yulefest Christmas Market, Kilkenny
2026 Dates: Nov. 28th-Dec. 23rd
Location: Kilkenny City
The Yulefest Christmas Market in Kilkenny is part of a larger annual holiday festival in the city that will run every weekend beginning Nov. 28th.
With Kilkenny Castle as a backdrop, you won’t want to miss this market in Ireland’s most popular medieval city.
Previous markets have featured decorated wooden huts and live music, with Kilkenny Castle adding to the setting.
Make a day of it by exploring the city before enjoying the market later on. Kilkenny’s compact center makes it particularly suitable for visitors who prefer sightseeing on foot.
The market will open on Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on Sundays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
4. Visit the Belfast Christmas Market
2026 Dates: Nov. 14th-Dec. Dec. 22nd
Now in its 13th year, the Belfast Christmas Market will run from Nov. 14th through Dec. 22nd.
As is customary each year, Belfast City Hall will be transformed into a traditional German-style Christmas market full of at least 90 wooden chalets.
Expect to find lots of holiday gift items at this fun market, which also includes a food court with cuisines from 32 or more nations.
Lots of activities for the kiddos too, including a Santa Train and more.
You can also combine your visit with other Belfast sights, making the market part of a wider city break rather than your only reason for traveling.
5. Discover Waterford’s Winterval Market
2026 Dates: Nov. 13th-Dec. 23rd
This, too, is a very popular holiday market in Waterford City that is scheduled to run from Nov. 13th through Dec. 23rd.
The markets are spread across the city and can be found at Bishop’s Place, the Apple Market, Merchant’s Quay, and John Roberts Square.
The 2026 celebrations include festive markets and a range of ticketed experiences. Attractions such as the Winterval Mini Express Train, ice skating, and Santa experiences have their own booking arrangements.
Waterford’s historic center adds another reason to visit. Leave time to explore the city rather than rushing between Christmas activities.
Be sure to visit the website to get your tickets for the various fun events.
6. The Dublin Christmas Markets
There are a number of Christmas-related happenings around Dublin this year. They include the following:
- TwinkleTown Smithfield: Runs from November 20th to December 31st at Smithfield Square with free general admission. Enjoy ice skating, the Santo Panto, a fun fair, a craft market, live music, and more.
- TwinkleTown St. Patrick’s Park: Runs from November 27th to December 23rd. This is a about a 20-minute walk from the other Twinkletown event in Smithfield. Activities at this site include a craft market, the chance to hear choirs from across Ireland perform holiday classics, and more.
- Henry Street and Mary Street Markets: Offers a traditional Dublin Christmas shopping experience. Browse for gifts and festive items, then explore the nearby shops and enjoy the city’s Christmas lights.
- Swords Castle Christmas Market: This market will be open across two weekends, including Nov. 27th-29th and again from Dec. 5th-6th. You can find handmade crafts, gifts, and festive treats within the castle grounds.
7. Corkmas Celebration, Cork City
2026 Dates: Nov. 15th-Dec. 31st
What used to be Glow Cork is now known as “Corkmas.”
Cork City’s celebration of the Christmas holiday will be replete with lights and Christmas trees shining bright in the city center.
This year’s celebration includes a festive market at Bishop Lucey Park from Nov. 20th to Dec. 22nd; a Christmas Parade on Sunday, Nov. 15th from 6:30-7:30 pm, a Family Festive Hub at Counting House Plaza, with free creative workshops, circus skills lessons, kids’ discos, interactive games, and other festive entertainment; a ferris wheel and carousel for kids to enjoy (Nov. 27th-Dec. 31st), together with a whole host of cultural events taking place across the city and around County Cork during the months of November and December.
8. Attend the Cork International Film Festival
2026 Dates: Nov. 12th-22nd
Are you interested in films outside of the usual Hollywood blockbusters, specifically Irish-made flicks?
If so, you might want to check out the Cork International Film Festival, an annual event.
Established in 1956, the festival showcases Irish and international cinema, including features, documentaries, and short films.
Many of the events take place in the Cork Opera House, with other films shown at various cinemas across the city.
Check out the event listings here.
9. Celebrate Irish Writing at the Dublin Book Festival
2026 Dates: Nov. 4th-8th
Why not explore Dublin by checking out the events and activities that are part of this year’s Dublin Book Festival?
Taking place in venues all around Dublin, the festival is a vibrant celebration of Ireland’s writers, illustrators and publishers.
Hear both established and emerging authors in conversation about their new books, enjoy stimulating panel discussions, poetry readings, walking tours, creative workshops, special celebrations and launches, a full weekend of free events for all the family, a schools’ program, and more.
The festival includes more than 120 events featuring over 200 writers and artists, across venues throughout Dublin.
Budget Tip: Reserve free events early where booking is required. Free admission doesn’t necessarily mean you can turn up without a ticket.
10. Visit the Limerick Museums
Limerick City has two great museums that are worth visiting.
The renowned Hunt Museum claims to be the repository of 10,000 years’ worth of Irish and world history and indeed, that is true.
The museum, which is in Limerick’s beautiful Georgian-inspired Custom House, houses an incredible collection of antiquities, including the personal collection of John and Gertrude Hunt.
Notable features of the museum include its “Captain’s Room” and its “Red Staircase.”
The Hunt Collection includes about 2,500 artifacts, including pieces from Stone Age Ireland and ancient Egypt, the 9th-century Antrim Cross made of cast bronze and enamel, a bronze horse said to be designed by the painter Leonardo de Vinci, as well as dresses from the famous Irish designer Sybil Connolly, whose famous clients included Jacqueline Kennedy.
Of course, there’s a lot more to see at this fascinating museum. If you’re in Limerick during the month of November or any time really, be sure to visit.
The Limerick Museum is a free museum that is also worth seeing.
Housed in the Old Franciscan Friary on Henry Street, this museum is focused entirely on Limerick’s history and houses some fascinating artifacts, too.
In fact, it claims to have the largest collection in Ireland – some 63,000 pieces.
Some of those include Stone Age axes, medieval coins, Limerick silver, Limerick lace, and a civic sword given to the city by Queen Elizabeth I in 1575, as well as medals presented to veterans of the Easter 1916 Rising.
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11. Loughcrew Estate & Gardens Wonderland Light Show
2026 Dates: Nov. 27th-Jan. 3rd
The beautiful 17th-century Loughcrew Estate & Gardens is a must-see any time of year, but beginning in November, it hosts a special light show.
This year’s event has a new, more nature-focused format, with illuminated trees, glowing pathways and light installations rather than a large themed Wonderland event or Santa experience.
Visitors are being encouraged to wander along the site’s illuminated pathway where glowing trees will be visible, enhancing the natural beauty of its gardens.
Organizers say the experience will offer the perfect setting to “slow down, wrap up warm, and enjoy the magic of the outdoors after dark.”
The walk is about 1 kilometer and the entire visit should take one hour.
12. Hear the Sound of Belfast
2026 Dates: Nov. 5th-Nov. 15th)
Did you know that Belfast is a UNESCO City of Music?
Its Sound of Belfast Festival, which celebrates the city’s diverse and vibrant music scene will return again this year in venues across the city.
The program includes live performances, exhibitions, album launches, and other events across the city. It’s a chance to discover local music while exploring venues you might otherwise overlook.
Whether you enjoy traditional music, electronic sounds, or something in between, browse the listings for a performance that suits your taste.
Keep an eye on the festival’s Facebook page for more details on the 2026 program of events or email [email protected].
13. Explore Irish History at the Decorative Arts & History Museum at Collins Barracks
When: Year-round
For a free indoor activity, consider the National Museum of Ireland’s Decorative Arts & History site at Collins Barracks in Dublin.
The museum offers an opportunity to explore Irish history through objects, design, and material culture.
The permanent exhibition titled, Airgead: A Thousand Years of Irish Coins & Currency, traces the role of money in Ireland through coins, banknotes, tokens, and other objects.
Includes exhibits of medieval coins, including the first Irish coinage created by the Dublin Vikings, coin-hoards, modern banknotes, tokens, and medals.
See also the rare gold pistoles/coins of the 1640s, the infamous “gun money” of King James II and the plaster casts submitted for coinage during the Free State period of 1928.
As with other National Museum of Ireland museums, this exhibit is completely free to visit. Donations are always welcome.
14. Visit Elf Town at the RDS in Dublin
2026 dates: Nov. 14–Dec. 23
Location: RDS, Ballsbridge, Dublin
If you’re visiting Ireland with children in November, Elf Town at Dublin’s RDS is another festive experience to consider.
This ticketed Christmas attraction brings together imaginative settings, costumed characters, and a special visit with Santa, giving families a chance to start their Christmas celebrations before December arrives.
There are two different experiences to choose from, including the Immersive Experience, which is the most popular option and offers a more extensive adventure through Elf Town, as well as a visit with Santa, and The Magical Santa Visit, which is shorter and includes a Santa visit only.
A special sensory experience is also available for children who are suited to a more relaxed, gentle environment.
15. Everwinter
2026 Dates: Nov. 25th-Jan. 3rd, 2027
Location: RDS, Dublin
This event is a new addition to Dublin’s festive calendar.
Everwinter includes a Christmas market, a covered ice rink, a vintage fairground, and Robert Fossett’s Circus, all housed at the RDS in Ballsbridge.
Browse stalls showcasing Irish crafts and design, enjoy festive food and drink, or book one of the attractions for a family outing.
16. Ennis Trad Festival, County Clare
2026 Dates: November 5–9, 2026
Enjoy five days of traditional Irish music at the annual Ennis TradFest in County Clare.
The festival features concerts, lively pub sessions, album launches, workshops, a céilí, and a traditional music session trail throughout the town.
Ennis has a long-standing reputation as one of Ireland’s great traditional music towns, making this a wonderful opportunity to experience Irish music in an authentic setting.
17. Kilkenomics – Kilkenny City
2026 Dates: November 6–8, 2026
If you’re looking for something a little different, this three-day current affairs and comedy festival known as Kilkenomics in Kilkenny might appeal.
Economists, journalists, financial experts and comedians come together for lively discussions and entertaining performances.
The 2026 program features approximately 60 events and 70 contributors.
This is billed as the “world’s first economic and comedy festival” and might be an interesting addition to a November visit to Kilkenny, particularly if you enjoy topical discussions with a healthy dose of humor.
18. The Sneem International Storytelling & Folklore Festival – County Kerry
2026 Dates: Nov. 12th-15th
Experience Ireland’s storytelling traditions at the Sneem International Storytelling & Folklore Festival in the picturesque village of Sneem on the Ring of Kerry.
The four-day festival celebrates Irish folklore, local history, traditional music, theatre and storytelling. Visitors can enjoy fireside storytelling sessions, cultural talks, live performances and family-friendly activities.
It’s a lovely way to discover another side of Irish culture while exploring one of Kerry’s most attractive villages.
19. Atlantic Sessions Festival, Portstewart & Portrush, County Antrim
2026 Dates: Nov. 12th-15th
If you’re a music lover and you’re are heading to Northern Ireland in November, you might want to check out Atlantic Sessions, a four-day music festival held in the seaside towns of Portstewart and Portrush in County Antrim.
The festival features almost 40 live performances across local pubs, hotels and other venues, with the majority of gigs free to attend.
Headline performances, special concerts and music trails make this a great opportunity to experience Northern Ireland’s local music scene.
It’s also a good excuse to explore the Causeway Coast during the quieter autumn season.
20. TULCA Festival of Visual Arts – Galway City
2026 Dates: Nov. 6th–Nov. 22nd (dates currently listed as provisional)
If contemporary art interests you, check out the TULCA Festival of Visual Arts in Galway.
This annual arts festival brings together Irish and international artists through exhibitions, installations, performances and talks at venues throughout Galway City.
The 2026 edition is expected to feature 15 artists and two collectives, with exhibitions planned at several city-center galleries and cultural venues.
21. Armagh Georgian Festival, Armagh City
2026 Dates: Nov. 26th-Nov. 29th
Across four days, Armagh City’s historic streets and Georgian landmarks will provide the setting for costumed characters, immersive living history, live music and festive entertainment.
At this annual event you can explore the Festive Artisan Market, which will bring together more than 100 market stalls across The Mall and the city center, discover the stories behind Georgian Armagh, and enjoy the spectacular Georgian Light Show.
Additional Events/Festivals/Musicals to Attend in November
If your November trip takes you elsewhere in Ireland, these events and attractions are worth exploring.
The Dingle Literary Festival, Dingle, Nov. 20-22. A unique bilingual festival that showcases both English and Irish language writers.
The Irish Surf Film Festival, Galway, dates to be announced. Showcases the talents of those involved in wave riding as well as the documenting of the sport in Ireland.
Robin Hood – The Gaiety Panto, The Gaiety Theatre, Dublin, Nov. 22-Jan. 3. Christmas in Dublin would not be Christmas without seeing a Gaiety panto, a tradition since 1873! This year’s panto is a “swashbuckling spectacle” retelling story of Robin Hood as he robs the rich to give to the poor.
It’s a Wonderful Life, The Gate Theatre, Dublin, Nov. 21-Jan. 10, 2027, with previews starting Nov. 17th. Enjoy a stage production of the timeless classic as this new version brings the beloved story of George Bailey to life with a fresh theatrical spirit.
Ilumina Night Lights, Beyond the Trees, Avondale, County Wicklow, Nov. 14-Feb. 1, 2027. Walk through the tree top canopy at night and experience a nocturnal adventure as you ascend 30 meters (131 feet) beyond the Treetop Walk and into an expanded woodland trail. Includes over 80 illuminated light installations at this popular attraction.
Santa at Avondale House, Avondale, County Wicklow, Nov. 27-Dec. 22. Enjoy a traditional Victorian Christmas experience with a guided tour through the decorated mansion and relive the charm of Christmases past with the Parnell family. Kids can share their wishes on the festive Thoughts Wall and then meet Santa in the Parnell Study. Every child receives a traditional wooden toy. Complimentary hot chocolate and mulled wine also available.
Christmas Craft Market, Avondale House, County Wicklow, Nov. 28-29 and again from Dec. 4-6, Dec. 11-3, and Dec. 18-20.
Christmas Ceramics Workshop at Ardgillan Castle, Dublin, Nov. 14. Get creative during your November visit with a Christmas pottery workshop at Ardgillan Castle. Make your own festive decorations while enjoying a hands-on activity in a historic setting.
Is November a Good Time to Visit Ireland?
November can be a rewarding time to visit Ireland if you’re comfortable with changeable weather and shorter days.
It’s particularly well suited to travelers who enjoy museums, festivals, live performances, and city breaks.
Later in the month, Christmas celebrations add another reason to get out and explore.
The key is to keep your itinerary flexible. Plan outdoor sightseeing during the daylight hours, have a rainy-day alternative, and check event schedules before making a special journey.
With a little planning, you can enjoy plenty of Irish culture and seasonal atmosphere without filling every day with expensive attractions.
Are you planning to spend part of November in Ireland? If so, what activities have you arranged? Let me know in the comments below.
We are planning late November 2024! Three of us my daughter and her husband. Christmas markets for sure and any other ideas that are not lines of tourists?
This is absolutely *brilliant*! Its like having a comprehensive Irish holiday road map delivered, complete with Ferris wheels, medieval castles, and enough craft stalls to outfit a small village. Who knew planning November in Ireland could be this much fun, with everything from Viking coins to Santa Trains clearly laid out? Its the perfect antidote to getting lost in the sheer number of exciting things to do – just follow the light show projections and the sound of music! Highly recommend for anyone needing a serious dose of Irish holiday spirit.