- Designed for families, fans, creators and festive enthusiasts of all ages, The Convention Before Christmas is one of Dublin’s largest Christmas experiences, combining festive markets, live performances and celebrity guests.
- Screen actors from ‘Wednesday’ and ‘Star Wars’, the classic robot Johnny 5, and a host of Irish authors, illustrators and performers will feature across the weekend.
- More than 100 market stalls will fill the venue featuring local traders, makers, small businesses and food vendors.
Thursday, 27th November 2025: The National Show Centre in Swords will transform into a festive world of creativity and Christmas cheer next week as The Convention Before Christmas makes its debut on December 6th and 7th. This brand-new indoor convention brings together family-friendly Christmas entertainment and pop-culture fandom in one vibrant, immersive weekend.
Designed for families, fans, creators and festive enthusiasts of all ages, The Convention Before Christmas is set to become one of Dublin’s biggest family Christmas experiences, combining festive markets, live performances, celebrity guests, festive music and fun attractions, all while fundraising for LauraLynn Children’s Hospice.
Screen actors from ‘Wednesday’ and ‘Star Wars’, the classic robot Johnny 5, and a host of Irish authors, illustrators and performers will all appear across the weekend in special guest appearances. From Emily Ring, the young actress who plays Young Wednesday Addams in Wednesday Season 2, appearing in character on stage and for photo moments, as well as Dee Tails, the Star Wars creature performer with credits across The Force Awakens, Rogue One, The Last Jedi and Solo.
More than 100 market stalls will fill the venue during the weekend’s festivities, featuring local Dublin traders and food vendors; Irish makers, small businesses, and independent creators; Toy, comic, gaming, manga and collectibles stalls, as well as Children’s authors and illustrators offering special book signings.
Families will be able to complete a major portion of their Christmas shopping indoors, while children enjoy live entertainment and activities such as Elf pantos and a visit from Santa, the Grinch and Christmas Elves, as well as funfair rides, retro gaming machines and trading-card stalls.
The event is fully wheelchair accessible, includes a calm zone, and offers a family friendly ‘quiet hour’ shopping each morning.
Speaking ahead of the launch, Matt Hodge, Founder says, “We’re thrilled to bring this magical event to Dublin at such a special time of year. The Convention Before Christmas is designed to spark joy, creativity, and community festive spirit as we head into the festive season colliding fandom with festivity at Dublin’s Biggest Family Christmas Event. Whether you’re attending with family, friends, or as a fan of holiday traditions, there’s something for everyone.”
A full timetable is available on the website, with key moments including the Elf Christmas Live show, the Wednesday Addams on-stage segments, the kids and adults cosplay competitions, as well as the Busk for LauraLynn fundraiser.
This is the first year The Convention Before Christmas partners directly with LauraLynn as its official charity with on-site fundraising activities throughout the weekend. The event is supporting LauraLynn’s appeal to raise up to €70,000.
Guests are encouraged to come dressed in festive attire or cosplay to fully immerse themselves in the experience.
Parking is free for all, (limited disabled parking spaces available) and the venue is just a few minutes from Dublin Airport.
Event Details:
Dates: December 6th & 7th, 2025
Location: National Show Centre, Swords, Dublin
Parking: Free onsite
Tickets: Available online at https://www.theconventionbeforechristmas.ie
Social Media: Follow updates at @theconbeforechristmas
Event Manager: Sara Hodge
Tel: +353 89 448 5006
www.theconventionbeforechristmas.ie
Guests are encouraged to come dressed in festive attire or cosplay to fully immerse themselves in the experience.
Parking is free for all, (limited disabled parking spaces available) and the venue is just a few minutes from Dublin Airport.
Event Details:
Dates: December 6th & 7th, 2025
Location: National Show Centre, Swords, Dublin
Parking: Free onsite
Tickets: Available online at https://www.theconventionbeforechristmas.ie
Social Media: Follow updates at @theconbeforechristmas
Event Manager: Sara Hodge
Tel: +353 89 448 5006
www.theconventionbeforechristmas.ie
Event Socials:
For more information or interview opportunities, contact BeforeChristmas@harrispr.ie
ENDS