01 December 2007
The Magic of Christmas was brought to life in Killarney with the turning on of the Christmas Lights which took place Thursday 29th November.
Beforehand the Children's Torch Lit Parade took place which was sponsored by The Kingdom Newspaper. Over 600 Children, from local Schools, Scout and Brownie packs marched from the Fairhill Car Park down to Market Cross, armed with their themed lights, red, green and white, singing Christmas Carols, for the Official Turning on of the Lights by Santa Clause; Niall O'Callaghan, the Town Mayor and Donnacha Galvin, President of Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce.
Joan Kelly, Chairperson of the Children's Committee stated "The whole event went off like clockwork, thanks to the help of the many volunteers who acted as stewards along the route, the leaders and teachers from the various schools and groups and we would like to especially thank our sponsors The Kingdom who were of tremendous support to us in the planning of the parade as well as supporting us in the work we are doing planning the new Free Santa's Lodge and Tree of Giving at Deenagh Lodge which they are also sponsoring."
Along the route families were gathered in anticipation, well over 5,000 people lined the streets the whole way from Fair Hill to Market Cross, cheering on each group as they passed. The countdown was called and there was a hush in the crowd, when Main Street and New Street lit up with the lights - Massive Displays of White Lights on Green Garlands, which seemed to be suspended in mid air.
At the Market Cross, adding to the whole feel good atmosphere of the night, many businesses provided Mulled Wine, Hot Chocolate and Mince Pies to the crowds. The whole night was a testament to the hardworking Committee of Christmas in Killarney, with the assistance of Killarney Town Council and Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce.
Thursday marked the beginning of a fun packed festival of events and activities that is Christmas in Killarney. December 7th sees the long awaited opening of Skate Killarney in association with the Kilkenny Shops, as well as Santa's Lodge and the Tree of Giving which is also being sponsored by The Kingdom newspaper. At 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 charities before Christmas.
The Monster Pre Christmas Sale takes place from the 7th to the 9th throughout the town of Killarney where shoppers can get those all important presents at a discount; and the Outdoor Christmas Markets on the 8th and 9th are perfect for more unusual gifts and food ideas. Killarney has always been renowned for its selection of quality shops at any time of year - and for the Christmas Shopper a unique shopping experience is on offer.
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
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