Winter’s calling so let’s answer with skates on! If you’re looking to embrace the festive magic with the kids this season, there are some great ice-skating experiences popping up around Dublin. Whether you and your kids are future Olympians or more “cling to the railings” types, there’s a perfect rink for everyone! From large rinks to whole trails of ice, these are perfect for family outings, a bit of wobble and giggles, and loads of photo ops! We’ve lined up the highlights so you can pick the one (or two!) that best suit your crew.
Alpine Skate Trail – Dún Laoghaire Harbour
Easily the most scenic skating experience in Ireland, the Alpine Skate Trail in Dún Laoghaire winds through a sparkling outdoor trail of real ice beside the sea. It’s a magical experience for families, the kids can test their balance while parents soak up the harbour views! The location alone makes it worth the trip and there’s no shortage of cafés nearby for warming up afterwards.
Dates: 31 October 2024 – 18 January 2025
Cost: Adult €21 | Child €19 | Family from €54
Sessions: 50 minutes, times vary daily
Tip: Dress warmly — the sea breeze is brisk but magical under the fairy lights.
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Swords on Ice – Pavilions Shopping Centre, North Dublin
Swords on Ice is a Dublin favourite for a reason, it’s fun, friendly, and perfectly located right beside the Pavilions Shopping Centre (hello, easy parking and post-skate snacks!). There are penguin skate aids for little ones, helpful staff on hand, and plenty of festive vibes with music and twinkling lights. It’s the ideal pick for first-time skaters or families who want a simple, magical winter outing without trekking too far from home.
Dates: 24 October 2024 – 4 January 2025
Cost: Adult €20 | Child €18 | Family of 4 €64
Sessions: Wed–Fri 3 pm–9 pm, Sat–Sun 10 am–9 pm
Tip: Arrive 20 mins early to get skates fitted — and reward the effort with hot chocolate in the Pavilions after!
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Dundrum on Ice – Dundrum Town Centre
For a full day of family fun, Dundrum on Ice is the ultimate combo of festive and convenient. Located right in the heart of Dundrum Town Centre, it’s surrounded by shops, cafés, and restaurants, perfect for turning a skating trip into a full day out. It’s got a cheerful atmosphere, smooth ice, and helpful marshals who keep things safe and fun. It’s a hit with families because you can skate, shop, and sip hot chocolate all under one roof!
Dates: 17 October 2024 – 25 January 2025
Cost: Adult €20 | Child €18 | Family of 4 €64
Sessions: Mon–Fri from 3 pm | Sat–Sun 10 am – 8.45 pm
Tip: Go mid-week for quieter ice — and treat yourself to a post-skate crepe or burger in the food court.
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Ice Skating Blanchardstown – Millennium Park
Big, bright, and buzzing, Ice Skating Blanchardstown is Dublin’s largest rink and a brilliant choice for kids with energy to burn. The sessions run for 50 minutes, and there are plenty of aids and beginner zones for little ones still finding their balance. It’s located right beside Blanchardstown Centre, so you can combine it with Christmas shopping or a family meal. With upbeat tunes, colourful lights, and a huge open rink, it’s guaranteed fun for all ages, even if half the family spends more time laughing on the ice than gliding across it!
Dates: 14 November 2024 – 1 February 2025
Cost: Adult €21 | Child €19 | Family from €54
Sessions: Daily 10 am – 8.30 pm (times vary slightly)
Tip: Early morning sessions are quieter and perfect for beginners.
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South Dublin On Ice @ The Square, Tallaght
South Dublin On Ice brings a big dose of festive sparkle to The Square, Tallaght, a real-ice rink with skate aids for little legs, free parking, and special Sensory Sessions for a calmer experience. It’s easy for families: arrive a bit early, lace up, and you’re gliding in no time.
Dates: 17 November 2025 – 25 January 2026
Cost: Adult €20 | Child €17 | Family from €50
Sessions: 45 minutes, start on the hour
Tip: Sensory Sessions run Tue 6pm & Sun 10am, ideal for kids who prefer low lights and softer music.
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Twinkletown – Smithfield Square, Dublin
For a magical festive day out in the city, Twinkletown in Smithfield Square brings all the Christmas sparkle to one spot. There’s a twinkling ice rink, a vintage funfair, a Ferris wheel with city views, and a cosy “Twinkle Tavern” serving hot chocolate and festive treats. The whole square is transformed with lights, music, and the smell of toasted marshmallows in the air — the perfect mix of charm and cheer for families. Kids can skate, spin, snack, and shop all in one festive wonderland!
Dates: 28 November 2025 – 4 January 2026
Cost: Entry free to Twinkletown | Ice-Skating: Adult from €18 | Child from €14 | Family of 4 €66 (peak) / €55 (off-peak)
Sessions: Mon–Fri 11 am – 9 pm | Sat–Sun 10 am – 9 pm
Tip: Go early in the day for smaller crowds and plenty of time to explore, and warm up with a hot drink in the Twinkle Tavern! Sensory-Friendly Sessions are available for families who prefer a calmer experience, with reduced noise and smaller crowds, taking place at 11:00 on Saturday 29 November, Wednesday 3 December, Sunday 14 December, and Saturday 20 December.
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