Though the winter months are Ireland 's quiet period, around Christmas time its cities, villages and towns are a hub of activity with a selection of fairs and Christmas markets .
There are a number of Christmas fairs, ranging in size, throughout Ireland. In Dublin, alongside the many shops packed out with Christmas shoppers, there are four great Christmas markets in Temple Bar, flogging food, fashion, books and handy crafts.
Christmas in Killarney, Co. Kerry, sees a range of activities with Christmas sales offering great discounts in major department stores and street stalls of French and Irish craft markets. For kids, there's an ice rink and a special visit from Santa as well as a number of special events and winter walks through the Killarney National Park .
Argory in County Antrim , hosts a Victorian Craft Fair, where you can browse around the antiques and antiquities in this neoclassic country house, while soaking up the festive atmosphere with seasonal music, Christmas Carols, mulled wine and a visit from Santa himself.
While in Belfast, the hometown of C S Lewis, author of that seasonal favourite - The Chronicles of Narnia, you will find Christmas markets from the continent, in the grounds of City Hall, a special Christmas Fair in St George's market with an excellent selection of seasonal specialties.