A hint of magic in the air at Ireland’s Christmas markets

In need of a break from the frantic pace of neon-lit shopping centres? Kelly O’Brien looks at the rising trend of traditional Christmas markets featuring festive fun and finger-licking food

THE soft tones of carol singers floating on the crisp winter air, the mixture of delicious smells wafting from the stalls of cheerful food vendors, and rosy-cheeked children eagerly awaiting their turn to see Santa — nothing says Christmas more than a good market.

From the biggest of festivals to the smallest of weekend winter wonderlands, whether it’s bratwurst you’re after or some local handmade gifts, here are some of Ireland’s best markets.