Get your cockles (and mussels) warmed in Dublin this winter. Whether you succumb to the alluring aromas of the Christmas markets, join in with carol singers beneath the lights in O’Connell St., or attempt to side step the wide array of bargains in the pre/post Christmas sales, you'll find something to keep you seasonally adjusted.

Even as Yuletide winds down, the city's activities and events will keep you entertained into 2012. Here's our pick of the best.


DECEMBER

Tue 6 - Tue 20: Crooners at Christmas Special, Farmleigh House, Phoenix Park, D15.
Featuring Dublin-based vocal group, The Velvet Tones, expect a collection of easy listening classics such as White Christmas, Winter Wonderland, Santa Baby and many more festive gems from the golden era of your favourite crooners. This is a ticketed event so be sure to book in advance.
More details at: www.farmleigh.ie.

Thur 8 Dec - Sun 8 Jan: 7up Winter Wonderland, Royal Hospital Kilmainham, Kilmainham, D8.
Billed as Ireland’s ‘biggest winter park’, the 7up Winter Wonderland is free to enter, though prices apply once you get in. Among the many features are Ireland’s largest ice rink, a Christmas Circus, Santa’s Village, rides and attractions, and bars and cafés. Dare we say... get your skates on.
More details at: www.7upwinterwonderland.ie or tel. (+353) (0)1 212 1950.

Thur 8 - Sat 24 DEC: Live Animal Crib, The Mansion House, Dawson Street, D2.
This much loved Christmas tradition is a fun way to occupy the kids at a traditional nativity scene. With live animals, choral performances, face painting and free admission it's one for the to-do list.
More details at: www.dublincity.ie

Mon 12: Twinkling Lights Photowalk, Old City, Temple Bar, D8.
You don’t have to be (cue: Superman ref) Jimmy Olsen to take part in this event - photo enthusiasts of all levels are welcome. Moving in the direction of the Spire, the Christmas lights in the old city and towards George’s St, this is a fantastic way to combine sightseeing with impressive snaps along the way. So whether you’re a rank amateur or consummate professional behind that lens, taking part is a must. Be sure to mention if you don’t have a tripod and the organisers will try to provide one for you. Say 'cheese'.
More details at: www.photowalk.ie.

Sun 18, 15:15 & 20:00: Carols by Candlelight, National Concert Hall, Earlsfort Terrace, D2.
Carols and seasonal classics by Handel, Mozart and more, are performed by an ensemble in full period costume in a suitably festive candle-lit setting.
More details at: www.nch.ie or tel. (+353) (0)1 417 0000.

Mon 26 - Wed 28: Leopardstown Racing Festival, Leopardstown Racecourse, Foxrock, D18.
This three-day Christmas Festival is a great excuse to peel yourself away from the telly and marvel at these well-honed racehorses. And, you never know, a profitable flutter may just pay for all those Xmas indulgences.
More details at: www.leopardstown.com or tel. (+353) (0)1 289 0500.

Mon 26 Dec - Sun 8 Jan: Funderland, RDS, Simmons Court, D4.
The funfair is in town to thrill and terrify. This indoor event opens daily 12:00 - 22:00 and is a perennial Christmas fave. The ideal way to add sparkle to those dark winter days. 
More details: www.funderland.com or tel. (+353) (0)1 283 8188.

Sat 31: 2012 Dublin New Year Festival, Guinness Storehouse, St James Gate, D8 and Sat 31 Dec 2011 – 1 Jan 2012: Christ Church Cathedral, Christchurch Place, D8.
Celebrate the New Year with a host of bands and DJs or relax to the melancholic tones of the Dublin Gospel Choir followed by the ringing of the bells. Taking place in the Guinness Storehouse, Dublin’s most iconic tourist attraction, and inspirational Christ Church Cathedral, all tastes and traditions are covered.
More details at: www.dublinnewyearfestival.com or tel.(+353) (0)1 250 0066.

JANUARY

Wed 25 - Sun 29: Temple Bar Trad Fest, Various Locations, Temple Bar, D8.
With over 200 free events taking place, the Trad Fest is a buoyant celebration of traditional Irish music and culture. Since 2006 it has grown in popularity and features some of Ireland’s top musical talent. With Outdoor stages, Irish dancing, storytelling, street performers, not to mention Irish supergroup Clannad’s very own Moya Brennan and the iconic Dubliners appearing at this year’s Fest, get ready for some craic agus ceol (that's Gaelic for fun and music folks).
More details at: www.templebartrad.com.