A Cracking Christmas Ahead - Children’s Activities during Christmas in Killarney Festival

08 December 2009

The Magic of Christmas will be brought to life this Christmas at the Christmas in Killarney festival with a wide range of Children's Activities from now until January 6th 2010.

In association with the Killarney Town Council and Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce, next Friday December 4th will see the annual Christmas Children's Parade and Turning on of the Christmas lights. At 6pm, whilst singing a wonderful selection of Christmas Carols, over 600 Children from local Schools, Scout and Brownie packs and also Sports Organisations will march from Scott's Street down to Market Cross.

With the help of none other than Santa Claus himself, the parade will be followed by the eagerly awaited turning on of the Christmas Lights. Also Michael Gleeson, the Town Mayor and Tom Randles, President of Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce will also be present. This is one of the main highlights of the festival as each year thousands of people line the streets of Killarney to experience a very special evening for all the family.

Ailish Hallissey, Co-Chairperson of the Children's Committee with Tim O'Donoghue stated "This year we hope as many people turn out for the event as they did last year as it's such a wonderful night and will definitely help get everyone in the Christmas mood."

Another highlight of the festival is the Free Santa's Grotto and Tree of Giving, in association with The Kingdom. Located in Killarney's Cultural Centre, the grotto will be opened between 2pm - 6pm on December 12th, 13th, 19th & 20th.  For the Tree of Giving, children are asked to bring a new toy to donate to underprivileged children. These presents will be delivered by Santa to chosen local charities before Christmas. 

On Friday 4th December, due to popular demand, the festival will bring back Real Ice Skating. Killarney on Ice, in association with The Killarney Advertiser, will be open every day throughout December, (except Christmas Day) at Fair Hill Car Park, Killarney Town Centre. Tickets range from €15.00 (Adults), €10.00 (Children) and €12.00 (Secondary School Children).

Christmas in Killarney has something to offer everyone this Christmas and for a full list of the events and activities log on to www.christmasinkillarney.com. You can also join the Christmas in Killarney's Facebook fan page which will keep people up to date on all the events and activities throughout the festival.