Dublin is coming alive with the joy of Christmas, and there’s no better way to begin the holiday celebrations than at The Moving Crib, now open at 42 Parnell Square, Dublin 1, running daily through 4 January 2026. Why not plan your Christmas outing today and share this cherished Dublin tradition with family and friends?
A Cherished Christmas Tradition
For generations, families have made The Moving Crib a central part of their Christmas celebrations. This year marks 69 wonderful years of delighting children, engaging parents, and inspiring grandparents to return with their grandchildren, keeping this treasured tradition alive. Next year, the Crib will celebrate its 70th birthday – seven decades of joy, wonder, and the true spirit of Christmas. It is a tradition that has touched countless hearts, bringing families together in a celebration of faith, hope, and love.
Discover Vintage Treasures and Global Cribs
Visitors can explore two dazzling new displays this year. The first, Vintage Treasures, showcases everyday items, toys, and objects from days gone by—many of which children today would not be familiar with—offering a charming glimpse into the past and sparking curiosity and delight across generations. The second, Cribs from Around the World, features traditional nativity scenes from countries such as Peru, China, Ukraine, Tanzania, Venezuela, Mexico, Poland, and many more. Each beautifully crafted crib tells its own story and offers a captivating insight into the unique ways Christmas is celebrated across the globe. Together, these collections celebrate imagination, history, and culture, reminding us that the spirit of Christmas transcends borders, generations, and time.
Step into the Story: Enchanting Moving Scenes
Step inside and be transported through the biblical stories, brought to life in a sequence of beautifully crafted, moving scenes. From Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden to Noah’s Ark, the Annunciation, the Court of King Herod, and culminating with the Nativity, every corner is alive with movement, sound, and vibrant detail.
With over 100 moving figures and intricate sets, it is a feast for the senses for visitors of all ages. The careful attention to detail, the gentle movements of each figure, and the vibrant colours of the backdrops make this experience both joyous and reverent.
An Experience for All Ages
Families love the Crib for more than its craftsmanship. Children are mesmerised by the moving figures and animals, parents pause to reflect, and grandparents often return year after year, bringing their grandchildren to share in the experience.
It’s also the perfect backdrop for festive photos. Don’t forget to share your visit on social media – tag @StMartinDublin and use #TheMovingCrib.
Festive Sing Along with the Bray Gospel Choir
On Sunday, 7 December, visitors can join in the festive cheer with a live performance by the Bray Gospel Choir. There will be four performances on the half hour from 12:30 pm, with the final performance from 3:30 pm to 4:00 pm. Expect classic Christmas carols, uplifting gospel favourites, and soulful harmonies that invite everyone to sing along and get into the Christmas spirit. It’s been proven to be an extremely enjoyable experience year after year for visitors of all ages. No booking is required – simply drop in, join the fun, and let the music fill your heart with festive joy.
Entry and Booking Information
For entry to The Moving Crib, individuals and families do not need to book. However, groups, including schools and corporate visitors, should book online in advance at www.stmartin.ie/crib.
Preserving a 70-Year Tradition
As The Moving Crib approaches its 70th anniversary, many of the scenes, mechanical figures, and intricate sets need restoration. A fundraiser for 2026 is underway to preserve the moving figures, refurbish the scenes, and maintain the mechanical magic that brings the Crib to life. Donations can be made during your visit, by phone, or in the St Martin shop. For more information, please visit www.stmartin.ie/the-moving-crib-fundraiser.
Admission and Opening Hours
Admission to The Moving Crib is free. The Crib is open daily from 11:00 am to 5:30 pm, except for Christmas Day, St Stephen’s Day, and New Year’s Day, with early closing at 3:00 pm on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning after many years, there’s something new to discover this season. From the intricate moving figures to the global crib and vintage treasure collections, The Moving Crib captures the true spirit of Christmas in Dublin.
Celebrate the start of the festive season – plan your visit today and share in this treasured tradition with family and friends.
For more information, visit www.stmartin.ie/crib
or call 01 874 5465.
