Christmas market season kicks off in Kildare as Maynooth gets in the festive mood

Maynooth Local Market will host its 2025 Christmas Markets today, Saturday, December 6, and Saturday, December 13 on Court House Square. The first market takes place this weekend, with both dates offering seasonal shopping, food and family-friendly activities.

This year’s Christmas Markets will feature extended opening hours, running from 10am to 5pm to give visitors more time to browse, enjoy the atmosphere and pick up unique local gifts.

Both markets will feature the market’s established stalls, including organic produce, farm-fresh eggs, baked goods, photo prints, paintings and sustainable dog accessories.

Today's market will include live festive music from St Mary’s Brass and Reed Band, performing on the Square from 10.30am. Alongside the market’s regular stalls, visitors will find a wide selection of new vendors offering Irish botanical jewellery; knitted and crocheted baby blankets, cardigans and hats; premium tallow balm; pottery; fresh fish; wooden homewares; and original artwork by Dutch artist and Maynooth resident Antoon Knaap.

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The December 13 market will also feature an expanded line-up of seasonal stalls, providing further opportunities to shop local in the run-up to Christmas.

Chair of the Maynooth Local Market Committee, Cllr. Peter Melrose, said: “Last year was our first time hosting Christmas markets and the feedback was fantastic, so we're thrilled to be bringing them back for a second year. They’ve quickly become a real highlight for both visitors and vendors. It’s a brilliant opportunity to support local small businesses at one of the busiest shopping times of the year, and we're expecting an even bigger turnout this December.”

Local photographer Karen, who trades as Skinny Pixels and is a regular market vendor, added: “One of the best things about being part of the market is the real connection with people. Customers stop for a chat, tell you which photos remind them of home or who they’re buying for, and it creates a lovely sense of community you just don't get anywhere else - it’s uplifting! I'm really looking forward to the Christmas Markets and the buzz they bring to the Square.”

The market is encouraging shoppers to consider choosing local where possible this year. Every purchase supports independent makers, growers and producers at a key trading period for small businesses.

A limited number of regular vendor spaces have become available for 2026. Local businesses interested in applying can email maynoothlocalmarket@gmail.com for details on obtaining a trading licence through Kildare County Council.

The weekly market continues every Saturday from 10am to 3pm on Court House Square.