MUSICAL
Mamma Mia at BGE Theatre (until Wednesday)
The ultimate feel-good night out - belt out the classics with 2,000 other Dancing Queens as the ABBA musical makes its return to Dublin. Since it launched in 1999, the show has been seen by over 60 million people in 50 productions in 16 different languages.
MUSIC
Christmas with the Dublin Gospel Choir at Draíocht, Blanchardstown (Saturday)
Enjoy an uplifting selection of Christmas favourites old and new, and plenty of festive energy, from the Dublin Gospel Choir.
CINEMA
It's a Wonderful Life at the IFI (until Monday 23 December)
Christmas just ain't Christmas until you've enjoyed Frank Capra's 1946 fantasy. James Stewart's troubled lead character is pulled back from the brink by a crucial intervention from his guardian angel.
THEATRE
A Christmas Carol at Gate Theatre (until Saturday 18 January)
And while we're on the subject of festive fantasies, how about going right back to Dickens? This updated version is retold by Jack Thorne and imaginatively directed by Selina Cartmel. Critics have called it "sparkling and utterly charming".
GIG
Torche at The Grand Social (Saturday)
If it's riffs you're after, American sludge metal band Torche have them in spades. What makes them special, though, is their mastery of big hooks, melodies and huge choruses. One of the best heavy bands around.
CLUB
Maceo Plex and Ellen Allien at District 8, Swords (Saturday)
Two of techno's biggest names on one bill - the new District 8 at the former Wright Venue in Swords does it again with another huge night of dance music.
BABIES
Baby's First Xmas at Axis, Ballymun (Saturday)
This very special Christmas show is a sensory wonderland for babies, with beautiful singing, lights and enticing textures to explore.
MARKET
A Fabulous Market at The George (Saturday)
A family-friendly Christmas market with a twist, as one of Dublin's favourite LGBT+ venues plays host to craft designers, coffee, food stalls with vegan options ands much more.
COMEDY
Jack Whitehall at 3Arena (Tuesday and Wednesday)
Fast heading towards superstardom, the 31-year-old Englishman brings his biggest tour yet to Dublin. Expect plenty of energy, silliness and sharp wit.
