Christmas in County Monaghan: Markets, Events & Festive Things to Do
Make the most of Christmas in County Monaghan — from town Christmas markets and festive events to Christmas shopping, dining, and the magic of Castle Leslie at Christmas.
Christmas in County Monaghan has a particular warmth to it. The county's towns light up through November and December, the local retail and hospitality sector goes into full swing, and the community events that mark the season — from charity Santa runs to traditional carol services — give the county a festive energy that feels genuinely local rather than manufactured.
Whether you're a visitor looking for a festive weekend away, a local planning how to make the most of the season, or someone trying to tick off Christmas shopping while supporting local businesses, this guide has you covered.
Christmas Markets in County Monaghan
Christmas markets have become an increasingly important part of the seasonal calendar in County Monaghan's towns. Markets typically run in the weeks leading up to Christmas and bring together local artisan producers, craft makers, food stalls, and gift sellers in an outdoor or semi-outdoor setting.
Monaghan Town Christmas Market is the county's flagship festive market event, typically held in the town centre in the weeks before Christmas. The market is a popular gathering point for the county, bringing locals and visitors together in the festive atmosphere of the Market Square. Stalls selling locally made crafts, artisan food, seasonal produce, and Christmas gifts are the main draw.
Carrickmacross and Castleblayney also host their own Christmas market and festive events in the lead-up to Christmas. These smaller markets have a lovely community feel and are well worth a visit if you're in the south of the county.
Keep an eye on Monaghan County Council's events listings and local community Facebook pages for the exact dates and locations of Christmas market events each year, as these can vary.
Castle Leslie at Christmas
Castle Leslie Estate in Glaslough is one of Ireland's most magical Christmas destinations. The Victorian castle, decorated for the season with open fires, seasonal foliage, and the appropriate air of Victorian abundance, is genuinely spectacular at Christmas.
The estate runs a range of festive events and packages through December — from Christmas Day dinner and overnight stays to festive afternoon teas and special event evenings. These packages are extremely popular and book out well in advance.
If spending Christmas at Castle Leslie is on your wish list, book as early as possible — ideally in September or October. The estate's Christmas offering is one of the most sought-after festive experiences in Ulster, and late availability is rare.
Even for day visitors, the estate takes on a special character in December. A meal in the castle restaurant or a visit for afternoon tea in the festive setting is a lovely treat.
Find Castle Leslie Christmas packages on monaghanbusinesses.ie →
Christmas Shopping in County Monaghan
Shopping locally at Christmas is one of the most impactful things you can do for the County Monaghan economy. The county's independent retailers — clothes shops, gift shops, bookshops, craft businesses, food producers, and more — depend disproportionately on December trading, and every purchase made locally rather than online or in a larger city keeps money in the local economy.
What to buy local in County Monaghan at Christmas:
- Carrickmacross Lace — a uniquely local gift that carries the history and craft of the county with it. The Carrickmacross Lace Gallery is the place to go for everything from small lace pieces to elaborate framed works.
- Artisan food and drink — local food producers offer exceptional gifts, from County Monaghan mushroom gift boxes to locally produced preserves, cured meats, and artisan baked goods.
- Gift vouchers for local businesses — a gift voucher for a local restaurant, beauty salon, or activity business supports a local business and gives the recipient a great experience.
- Local independent shops — Monaghan Town, Carrickmacross, and the county's other towns have independent retailers stocking gifts, homewares, books, and more that you simply won't find in online megastores.
Browse local retailers in County Monaghan →
Christmas Dining in County Monaghan
December is the busiest month for the county's restaurants, hotels, and pubs, and for good reason — the festive season is a natural time for office parties, family gatherings, and celebratory meals.
Christmas party bookings: If you're organising a work Christmas party or a group dinner in County Monaghan, book early. The county's better restaurants and hotel function rooms fill up for December party nights from October onwards. Most venues offer dedicated Christmas party menus in December.
Christmas Day dining: Several hotels and restaurants in County Monaghan offer Christmas Day lunch — typically a carvery or set menu in a festive setting. These are very popular with families who want to enjoy the day without the stress of cooking, and they typically book out completely. If Christmas Day dining out appeals, make your reservation in October at the latest.
Festive menus: Most of the county's restaurants run a festive menu through December — often at a fixed price, featuring seasonal ingredients and appropriate puddings. These are usually available for dinner and sometimes lunch throughout the month.
Browse Christmas dining in County Monaghan →
Festive Events and Activities in County Monaghan
Santa Visits
Santa visits in County Monaghan range from the informal — local GAA clubs and community groups organising visits for younger members — to more elaborate experiences at venues like Castle Leslie. Check local community groups and Facebook pages for details of Santa visits near you each year.
Carol Services
The county's churches hold carol services and Christmas concerts throughout December. These are wonderful community events — free, accessible, and carrying the genuine warmth of a local carol service in a historic church. St Macartan's Cathedral in Monaghan Town typically hosts a carol service that is one of the highlights of the town's festive season.
Pantomime and Theatre
The Garage Theatre in Monaghan Town typically runs a Christmas production in December — often a pantomime or family-friendly show that is a popular tradition for local families. Booking is advisable.
Charity Events
December in County Monaghan sees a flurry of charity fundraising events — Santa runs, Christmas jumper days, quiz nights, and more — organised by the county's many active community and charitable organisations. Participating in these events is a great way to engage with the community and support good causes while enjoying the festive season.
A Festive Weekend in County Monaghan: Ideas
If you're planning a festive weekend away in County Monaghan, here's a simple itinerary to make the most of it:
Saturday:
- Morning: Arrive and check in to your accommodation — Castle Leslie for a splurge, or one of the county's excellent B&Bs for great value
- Afternoon: Visit Monaghan Town Christmas Market, browse the independent shops, and pick up some local food and gifts
- Evening: Dinner at one of Monaghan Town's restaurants, followed by a visit to the Garage Theatre if there's a show on
Sunday:
- Morning: Full Irish breakfast at your B&B
- Mid-morning: Drive to Glaslough for a look at Castle Leslie Estate and the village, or walk Rossmore Forest Park with the frost on the trees
- Afternoon: Christmas lunch at a county hotel, then head home
Stay Over for Christmas in County Monaghan
Accommodation in County Monaghan in December fills up quickly — particularly the weekends before Christmas and the Christmas week itself. If you're planning a festive visit, book accommodation well in advance.
Browse accommodation in County Monaghan →
Find Christmas Events and Local Businesses on monaghanbusinesses.ie
For the most comprehensive directory of businesses, events, and experiences in County Monaghan this Christmas, visit monaghanbusinesses.ie.
Browse County Monaghan businesses for Christmas →
Last updated 2025. Event dates and details are subject to change — check local listings for the most current information.