Galway Christmas Market

I have two true favorite times of year to visit Ireland, though I would of course take a trip there any month I could. I love Ireland in March and April; Spring is a beautiful time to be in the Irish countryside, with the lambs and daffodils popping up all over.

My other favorite time of year to visit Ireland is over Thanksgiving. It hasn’t gotten cold there quite yet, so there are plenty of opportunities for walks and hikes and outdoor pints, and the Galway Christmas Market, in recent years, has made the city an even more vibrant and festive place to be during November and December.

The market is chock full of delicious food and beverage treats, with a Paulaner beer tent and pavilion being one of the main focal points. The tent offers big steins of various Paulaner beers along with a good buzz of chatter and fun.

Prost!

All of Galway is decorated for Christmas, and it seems like the entire town is an extension of the Christmas market.

And the market offers plenty of fun and rides for kids of all ages. It was even more fun this year, with our three year old nephew giving us an excuse to ride the carousel and train and to look at some of the handcrafted ornaments and toys for sale. This is the place to buy your gifts, simple, enjoyable, and beautiful pieces made by artisans rather than mass-produced items we are often used to.

Flowers in November, like these around the market in Eyre Square, are not uncommon in Galway. My mother-in-law’s roses were in full bloom. I am jealous of their lengthy gardening season!

Whether you visit the Galway Christmas Market in the day or night, you’ll find temptations for the eyes and the palate, from brightly colored macarons and savory crepes to German hot dogs and artfully made ornaments. It’s easy to spend several afternoons or evenings wandering and enjoying the music, smells, and sights, especially while warming your hands with a hot spiced gluhwein.

Do you have any favorite holiday events or markets that are part of your traditions?