Dublin children offered chance to light up city this Christmas with festive artwork

Dublin children could see their festive artwork projected for the whole city to enjoy as part of this year’s Dublin Winter Lights celebration.
Dublin City Council has invited children under 18 to take part in their 2025 Winter Art Competition, which offers a chance for their Christmas-themed artwork to be displayed at Barnardo Square on Dame Street throughout December. Winning entries will also be featured on the Dublin Lights website.
With a theme of ‘Dublin City Centre Twinkles at Christmas ,’ the top three entries will be awarded a prize by Lord Mayor of Dublin Councillor Ray McAdam. This artwork will also be used on the Lord Mayor’s official Christmas card for 2025.
“One of the best things about Christmas is the lights! I’m really looking forward to seeing what the children come up with this year,” said the Lord Mayor McAdam. “We want to celebrate the magic of Christmas, so get out your colouring pencils, crayons and paint and get twinkling!”
Since its illuminating inception in 2018, Dublin City Council Dublin Winter Lights has illuminated the city with vibrant events. As artists come together to brightening up the capital during the gloomy winter period, this adds a sense of Christmas spirit to those exploring the city after dark.
Previous years saw exciting events such as a 360-degree immersive light and sound experience at the National Museum or the iconic GPO lit up with stunning graphics. A light show in Merrion Square also highlighted the endless opportunities for artistic events around the city.
As an exciting annual event that spreads cheer throughout Dublin every holiday season, now children will have an opportunity to be part of the celebrations. With Dame Street being one of the city centre's busiest locations, millions of residents and visitors will cast an eye on the winning artwork.
The closing date for entries is 21 November 2025. Entry is open to anyone under the age of 18. To enter visit https://dublinwinterlights.ie/childrens-art-competition/ and all entrants must obtain parental/guardian consent before applying for the competition.
This content is funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme