The air is getting crisper, the festive lights are being checked twice, and the Christmas countdown is officially on! The Bray and District Chamber of Commerce, bray.ie and Bray Municipal District, Wicklow County Council have once again joined forces to unveil their festive campaign: “Step Into a Magical #ChristmasInBray for 2025.”
This year’s campaign encourages everyone—locals and visitors alike—to shop, hire, and source locally. By taking this simple yet powerful step, you support our local economy, help nurture a vibrant business community, and truly immerse yourself in the town’s many festive events and activities from late November through early January.
Need a little festive magic?
Imagine this: the warm, nostalgic glow of the screen at the Mermaid Arts Centre, wrapped up cosy while watching classic Christmas films; the enchanting, hushed sounds of Candlelight Concerts, where music seems to dance on the air; hands-on festive workshops that spark your creativity, leaving you with a beautiful keepsake; exploring the town centre to find that perfect, unique gift for someone special, knowing every purchase supports a local family; and savouring seasonal dining experiences—from hearty, fireside lunches to elegant, celebratory dinners—you’ll remember all year!
Jonathan Donnelly, President of the Bray & District Chamber of Commerce, said, “There’s no better way to embrace the Christmas spirit than by enjoying everything our wonderful town has to offer. From the magical events that are planned to the fantastic local businesses that make Bray special, it’s the perfect time to shop locally and support our vibrant community.”
Pictured at the launch of the Christmas in Bray 2025 marketing campaign are Jonathan Donnelly of Bray Chamber, Brian Wildes and Stephen Fox of Wicklow County Council, Adam Burke, Councillors Caroline Winstanley and Ned Whelan, Bray MD Cathaoirleach Erika Doyle, Frosty and Santa Claus — photo by Leigh Anderson.
Bray’s Christmas Lights Switch-On Dazzles Crowds as Santa and… The Grinch… Make a Spectacular Arrival
Pictured are Bray Cathaoirleach Erika Doyle, addressing a packed Civic Plaza in Bray before the switch-on of the Christmas lights. The Grinch with local garda and Abbey and Lucy O’Neill help Santa switch on the Bray Christmas lights — photos by Leigh Anderson.
The festive season officially roared to life in Bray on Saturday, November 22nd, as thousands gathered for the annual Christmas Lights Switch-On, marking the start of the #ChristmasInBray 2025 campaign. The atmosphere was electric, with families enjoying a magical evening of entertainment, community spirit, and a little unexpected chaos.
This flagship event is consistently cited as a significant community highlight. This year, the festivities included a local DJ, dynamic performances from Studio X, and a mass sing-along led by MC Adam Burke.
Just as the excitement was building, gasps went through the crowd as the Grinch was spotted abseiling down the civic buildings, seemingly intent on stealing Christmas. However, local Gardaí were on hand to help defuse the situation, ensuring the Grinch’s plans were foiled and the festive fun could continue.
The main event saw Santa Claus himself arriving spectacularly on a steam train, delighting children and adults alike. The honour of officially illuminating the town went to the O’Neill Family, who joined Santa on stage to push the magic button and switch on Bray’s Christmas Lights for 2025.
Cllr Erika Doyle, Cathaoirleach of Bray Municipal District, praised the event’s success: “Saturday’s switch-on was a truly spectacular start to the festive season in Bray. The electric atmosphere at the Civic Plaza perfectly captured our wonderful community spirit. Seeing so many families, the arrival of Santa, and even the Grinch’s antics, all brought the town to life. It was the perfect community celebration to launch the Christmas period.”
Read more + view the photo gallery here.
Meet our #ChristmasInBray digital ambassadors!
What’s On in Bray This Festive Season
This year, the town is bursting with festive experiences, unique events, and activities designed to captivate audiences of all ages.
They include:
🎅 Santa, Family & Kids’ Activities
These events are perfect for creating magical memories with children.
Santa’s Post Box: Children can send their letters to Father Christmas at Bray Town Hall (until Friday, December 12th) — Read more below!
Santa Claus at Killruddery with Me and the Moon: Meet Santa at this special event (various dates in November & December). Book at: https://www.meandthemoon.ie/santa-at-killruddery.
Crinken Church Christmas Tree Festival 2025 (FREE ENTRY) – Crinken Church welcomes visitors back to this stunning, magical display, which is returning after a 10-year absence! Dozens of beautifully decorated trees, created by local groups, families, and organisations, each tell a different part of the Journey to Bethlehem, offering a special way to experience the Christmas story. (Friday, December 5th, from 10 am – 9 pm; Saturday, December 6th, from 10 am – 9 pm and Sunday, December 7th, from 2 pm – 8 pm).
Santa Swaps Sleigh for Scuba! Marine Life Aquarium offers a unique festive adventure where families dive into a world of underwater wonder! Meet Santa in his magical grotto for memorable photos and a holiday surprise after exploring his enchanting, twinkling underwater world. (Fridays to Sundays, December 5th – 21st). Book at marinelifebray.ie.
Ukrainian Community Centre St. Nicholas Celebration – Join a magical afternoon of crafts, heartfelt performances, and festive joy. (Little Flower Hall on Friday, December 5th, from 3 pm to 5 pm). Performers and volunteers are welcome! Sign up at forms.gle/P9jrUAQv1ebSkXtu5/ Святкування Дня Святого Миколая в Українському Громадському Центрі – Приєднуйтесь до чарівного свята з майстер-класами, душевними виступами та радісною атмосферою. (Little Flower Hall, п’ятниця, 5 грудня, з 15:00 до 17:00). Запрошуємо виконавців та волонтерів! Реєстрація за посиланням: forms.gle/P9jrUAQv1ebSkXtu5.
Christmas Events for Kids at Ballywaltrim Library: An exciting programme of festive activities (starting Saturday, November 29th) — Read more below!
Santa Claus at The Harbour Bar – Grab the family for a FREE meet & greet with Santa Claus! Enjoy Christmas movies, colouring, and writing letters to Santa. (Sunday, December 14th, from 2 pm – 4 pm). Full details at facebook.com/theharbourbarbray.
Santa Claus at The Martello – Join the fun for a meet & greet with Santa Claus! Enjoy colouring and face painting—no booking needed! (Sunday, December 14th, from 2 pm – 4:30 pm). Full details at facebook.com/themartellobray.
Visit Santa & The Ponies at Festina Lente: A chance to meet Santa and his ponies (Saturday, December 20th & Sunday, December 21st). Book at: eventbrite.ie/e/santa-the-ponies-tickets-1700537727119.
Christmas Movies at Mermaid: Enjoy festive classics like Elf, Miracle on 34th Street, Home Alone, and more (from Monday, December 22nd). Book at mermaidartscentre.ie/whats-on/all.
🛍️ Markets, Fairs & Shopping
Find the perfect gift, enjoy local crafts, and soak up the market atmosphere.
Gift Ideas Galore: Discover top Christmas gifts from local retailers — Read more below!
Purple House Christmas Fair: A morning of Christmas shopping, seasonal treats, and festive cheer (Saturday, November 8th, from 10 am to 2 pm).
The Made Well Event at Killruddery: Celebrate Irish craftsmanship and conscious design (Friday, November 21st to Sunday, November 23rd). Full details at: killruddery.com/products/made-well-event.
Christmas Market & Live Crib (Enniskerry): Enjoy a magical festive market, nativity procession, live crib, and carol singing at St. Patrick’s Church, Powerscourt, Enniskerry (Saturday, November 29th, at 11 am to 6 pm).
Sunbeam House Services Christmas Craft Fair – Discover fabulous stalls featuring handmade wreaths, pottery, woodwork, and health and beauty gifts at Ballywaltrim Community Centre (Tuesday, December 2nd, from 11 am to 2 pm). Full details at facebook.com/sunbeamhouseservices.
National Learning Network Christmas Market (Supporting Adam Curran) – Support a great cause! Shop local crafts and gifts at the National Learning Network’s market, with all proceeds going to help student Adam Curran purchase a power chair for sports. (Friday, December 5th, 10 am – 1 pm). Full details at facebook.com/nlnwicklow.
St Andrew’s National School’s Annual Christmas Fair – Experience a winter wonderland with Santa’s Grotto, festive stalls, delicious seasonal treats, and fun games for the whole family. (Saturday, December 6th, from 11 am to 3 pm). Full details at facebook.com/StAndrewsChristmasFair.
The Palm Christmas Market: Celebrating local artisans, handmade gifts, and seasonal treats (December 7th, 14th, and 21st, from noon to 2:30 pm). Full details at: facebook.com/thepalmbray.
Signal Arts Centre Christmas Fair: Browse unique crafts, gifts, and festive treats (Wednesday, December 10th, until Christmas Eve, from 10 am to 5 pm daily). Read more at: signalartscentre.ie/exhibitions/signal-arts-centre-christmas-fair-2025/.
🎶 Music, Theatre & Performances
From pantomimes to carol services, here’s the best of Bray’s festive entertainment.
Reflections & Adorations: An evening of beautiful music at Christ Church (Saturday, November 15th at 7 pm). Book at: christ-church-bray.sumupstore.com.
Bray Musical Society presents… Cinderella! A sparkling pantomime for the whole family (from November 28th). Book at: gr8events.ie/sales/show_perfs.php?eid=2292.
Festive Shows at the Mermaid: Includes the Polar Bear & Penguin Family Show and Junior Musicals ‘Rockin Around the Christmas Tree’—full listings at: mermaidartscentre.ie/whats-on/all.
Purple House’s Christmas Candlelight Service: A serene festive gathering at Holy Redeemer Church (Friday, December 5th at 6 pm).
Voices of Bray’s Christmas Concert: A free, family-friendly event with beautiful choral music at Holy Redeemer Church (Saturday, December 6th at 3 pm).
Classics by Candlelight: Enjoy timeless music in a magical candlelit setting at Christ Church (Sunday, December 7th at 7 pm). Book at: pay.sumup.com/b2c/Q7RC0RMI.
Christmas by Candlelight: Bray tenor Ross Scanlon returns for a magical evening of seasonal music and song (Friday, December 12th at 7:30 pm). Book at: gr8events.ie/sales/index.php?event=2381.
Bray Choral Society: Carols at Christmas – Join the Bray Choral Society for festive carols and classic favourites, directed by Frank Kelly. This popular concert also includes a bumper raffle! (Saturday, December 13th, at 4:30 pm sharp in Christ Church, Bray). Read more at: braychoralsociety.ie/carols-at-christmas/.
Service of Nine Lessons and Carols (Christ Church, Bray) – Enjoy a traditional and moving service of nine lessons and carols, followed by festive refreshments, including mulled wine and mince pies (Sunday, December 21st, at 6 pm). No ticket required—All welcome!
😂 Comedy & Social Meetups
Enjoy a laugh and some festive cheer with these social events.
Eric Lalor at Hardy Har Comedy Club: Laugh your way into the season with the two-time ‘Irish Comedian of the Year’ (Thursday, November 13th)—more info at: facebook.com/HardyHarComedyClub.
Bray Arts Christmas Party Night: A festive gathering upstairs in the Martello Hotel (Tuesday, December 2nd)—more info at: facebook.com/brayarts.
Hardy Har Comedy Club – Christmas Cracker Comedy Special: Don’t miss this special festive comedy night featuring Fr. Ted legends Pat McDonnell (Eoin McLove) and Joe Rooney (Fr. Damo) and more! (Thursday, December 11th, with doors open at 8 pm and show at 9 pm)—more info at: facebook.com/HardyHarComedyClub.
🎨 Creative Workshops
Get hands-on and learn a new festive skill.
Festina Lente Workshops: Festive creativity workshops (starting Thursday, November 27th). Book at: eventbrite.ie/o/festina-lente-11124317923.
Killruddery Christmas Wreath-Making Workshops: Create your own festive wreath (various dates in November & December). Book at: killruddery.com/products/killruddery-cut-flowers-presents-christmas-wreath-making-workshop-1.
Guided Painting Workshop: Christmas Bauble Artwork (The Palm) – Paint a fun, colourful Christmas Bauble artwork step-by-step with artist Rosie Keane, perfect for all levels—no experience needed! (Sunday, December 14th, 2:30 pm – 5:00 pm). Book at eventbrite.ie/e/christmas-bauble-painting-workshop-bray-tickets-1976058873284?aff=oddtdtcreator
✨ Town Atmosphere & Ongoing Fun
Enjoy these events and activities that run throughout the festive season.
Town Centre Christmas Lights: See the town illuminated with the magical lights, the Giant Christmas Tree at the Civic Plaza, and Christmas projections.
#ChristmasInBray Competitions: Show off your creativity in colouring and photography challenges — Read more below!
#ChristmasInBray Spotify playlist: Get into the holiday spirit! Listen here!
🏊 New Year’s Day
Annual Charity Swim – Start the New Year with the iconic Bray Lions Club swim at noon on New Year’s Day, opposite the Martello Hotel. Thousands have been raised for local causes over the years—learn more at facebook.com/brayseaswim/.
Simply click on the #ChristmasInBray event/activity image below to reveal more information.
Free Car Parking at Herbert Road Car Park at Weekends
To make shopping local even easier, free car parking will be available in the Herbert Road Car Park (Council-owned portion) every weekend from Saturday, November 22nd, until Sunday, January 4th, 2026.
Cllr Erika Doyle added, “Supporting our businesses is vital, and we want to make it as convenient as possible. Offering free parking every weekend throughout the festive period at Herbert Road Car Park is a small but important gesture to help everyone shop local first and give a boost to the business community this Christmas and into the New Year.”
Make a break for Bray this festive season…
There’s plenty to keep you and your family busy in between the Christmas events, so why not make a break for Bray this festive season? Use the menu button to start exploring things to see and do, eat and drink, places to stay, and much more!
Hosting An Event?
If you are a local group or business hosting a community event this Christmas, bray.ie is happy to help promote it for free. Just fill out the online submission form here.
Top Christmas Gift Ideas…
Attention local retailers! Do you have the perfect Christmas gift? Submit it here to be featured on bray.ie’s ‘Top Christmas Gifts’ list.
Thanks to the local business community…
We appreciate all the local businesses that have contributed to the Christmas in Bray campaign, events, and activities so far. If your business would like to contribute, don’t hesitate to email the Bray and District Chamber at info@braychamber.ie,” concluded Jonathan.
All events and activities are subject to change without notice. The closing date for entries to the colouring and photo competitions is Friday, December 19th, 2025. Full terms are available here.
Join the conversation
Use the hashtags #ChristmasInBray #StepIntoChristmasInBray #WinterInBray #LoveBray #BestOfBray
The Christmas in Bray marketing campaign is supported by Bray and District Chamber of Commerce, bray.ie and Bray Municipal District, Wicklow County Council. bray.ie is a trading name of Bray Tourism.