As the festive season approaches, Cork is transforming into a sparkling wonderland thanks to its tradition of hosting some of the best Christmas markets Ireland has to offer.
Across the city and county, Christmas markets spring up in squares, parks, and villages, offering everything from handcrafted gifts to local produce, as well as family friendly activities like visits to Santa.
Whether you’re searching for the perfect present, planning a family day out, or simply want to make some new Christmas memories by taking in the festival atmosphere, Cork’s Christmas markets promise to capture the magic of the season at every turn.
The Corkmas Christmas Market
The Corkmas Christmas Market is on now on Emmet Place in Cork City until Monday, 22 December, 2025 as part of the Cork Christmas Celebration.The area has been transformed into a festive Christmas village featuring wooden chalets selling gifts, artisan crafts, and seasonal food and drinks.
The market will open Thursdays and Fridays from 12:00 to 20:00, and Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 to 20:00 and offers a family-friendly festive atmosphere where you can shop for unique items while supporting local traders, craftspeople, and food producers, and offering visitors a chance to enjoy Christmas lights, shopping, and entertainment in the heart of the city. This area will also host the Corkmas Santa Experience where you can visit with the man in the big red suit (by making an appointment!).
Crookhaven Christmas Fair
The Crookhaven Christmas Fair takes place on Friday 5th to Sunday 7th December. Experience a West Cork Christmas in Crookhaven as local food producers, artists, and craftspeople gather for this year’s fair, which will feature indoor and
outdoor stalls in Crookhaven Harbour.
The market will also offer Christmas gifting inspiration by showcasing the very best of local creativity and craftsmanship — from Christmas decorations and stained glass to local smoked salmon and other gorgeous local food, as well as handcrafted pottery and everything in between.
Visitors will enjoy a warm and welcoming community atmosphere with mulled wine, fire pits, marshmallow toasting, hot chocolate, Christmas music and lights. while supporting small local businesses and producers who call West Cork home.
There will also be visits from the main man himself, Santa Claus, with his helpers assisting with face painting and games.
The market will take place on Friday 5th from 5pm – 9pm; Saturday 6th from 2pm – 8pm; and Sunday 7th from 1pm – 6pm
.
Find out more here.
Santa’s Magical Market – The Big Freeze
This market will take place at Cork’s iconic Marina Market from November 22nd to December 23rd 2025. A Scandinavian-inspired winter wonderland, visitors can expect snow-dusted décor, twinkling lights, and themed zones such as the Frozen Forest, Ice Cave, and Snowy Valley. Run in partnership with Enable Ireland, the event also raises funds for local children’s services.
Visitors can enjoy a snow village offering festive treats, post letters to Santa at the North Pole Outpost, and meet Santa himself in a cosy log cabin as well as experience the incredible vendors that The Marina Market has to offer. The experience is fully accessible, dog-friendly, and includes sensory-friendly hours to accommodate all visitors.
Christmas Makers Market at Benchspace
This family-friendly market will take place on Friday December 12th from 4pm-7pm and Saturday December 14th 11am – 7pm at Benchspace, Unit 1.5, Marina Commercial Park, Centre Park Road. Cork, T12KRH7.
You will get to witness first hand the community of small businesses based out of Benchspace. You can see where they work, and have the opportunity to support local and buy unique handmade gifts. Dogs welcome.
Find out more here.
