dublin winter lights festival shifts to january 2027

Dublin City Council has announced a significant scheduling change for the upcoming 2027 edition of the highly anticipated Winter Lights Festival. The event will now run from mid-January through to the St Brigid's Day public holiday weekend, marking a strategic shift from its traditional December timeframe. This new timing aligns the celebration with the traditional Irish observance of Imbolc, which symbolises the gradual return of light and the approach of spring.

Lord Mayor Daryl Barron welcomed the change, describing the festival as a beloved seasonal attraction that will bring renewed vibrancy to the city centre during the shoulder season. He noted that illuminating the capital in January will offer substantial benefits to residents, commuters, and tourists alike. Events Officer Tony Smithers added that the repositioning allows the festival to establish its own unique identity on the cultural calendar, bridging the gap between Christmas and St Patrick's Day while maintaining a commitment to low-carbon operations through energy-efficient lighting and sustainable fuel sources.

The free-to-enter festival is expected to draw over 250,000 visitors to experience innovative light projections and interactive installations across iconic landmarks along the River Liffey. While the main event moves to January, the council remains dedicated to illuminating the city for Christmas, with details on the return of TwinkleTown and the Twinkle Trail to be released soon. Full programme information for the 2027 Winter Lights will be made available in December, and the event will be featured in Fáilte Ireland's 'Winter in Dublin' campaign.