By Katy Thornton

This is a public service announcement for everyone who loves silly season.

All across Europe, Christmas markets are being put together to honour the festive season; Irish people travel everywhere from Edinburgh, to Prague, to Hungary in search of Christmas cheer, delicious food, and knick knacks for their loved ones' stockings. Well Ireland has a pretty whopper Christmas market of its own, based in the west of the country, and it has just launched. Good news for all the Galway locals, or anyone making a trip there this side of Christmas. As of Friday, 11th November, the Galway Christmas Markets are back for 2022. They'll run all the way until the 22nd December, providing almost 6 weeks of festive fun. https://www.facebook.com/ChristmasMarketGalway/photos/a.1818259828388532/3278019002412600/?type=3 You can find the Galway Christmas Markets in Eyre Square. The markets open Monday to Wednesday 12pm to 8pm, Thursday to Saturday 10am to 10pm, and Sundays 10am to 8pm. Meaning you can pop over after work or have ample time over the weekend to attend. So what's on this year? In the markets' 12th year of running, you can visit Santa, ride the ferris wheel, and check out over 50 wooden chalets selling everything from seasonal treats, to arts and crafts perfect for gifting. Make sure to pop it in the diary and make it your mission to visit soon. Header image via Shutterstock