Thousands expected to witness the ‘Big Switch On’
THOUSANDS are expected to take to the streets of Gorey on Saturday evening to witness not just the official switching on of Gorey’s spectacular Christmas lights but to watch the towns night sky come alive with a magical fireworks show.
The ‘Big Switch-On’ will take place at 7.30 p.m. sharp on Saturday, November 24, and the committee want to not just improve the Christmas lights but also to make the event better and better each year, and something that people really appreciate when they come into the town.
To ensure all children see Santa, a stage is being erected once again at the top of Main Street and a Special Needs Area will also be provided, which must be booked in advance. (Please contact Gorey Christmas Lights Facebook page)
Flanked by Garda Goldwing outriders, Santa will be travelling up Main Street on his sleigh, and for the first time will be joined by Mrs Claus.
Arriving on stage at 7.15 p.m. to collect the hundreds of children’s letters that have been steadily piling up inside his postbox at the Market House, him and Mrs Claus will officially switch on Christmas in Gorey at 7.30 p.m. sharp.
While there will be the usual entertainment led by South East Radio DJ Dave Redmond from 6.30 p.m., the committee are also thinking outside the box to make this year’s switch-on the biggest and best yet with Santa and his team of elves having their workshop on stage, before the evenings grand finale of a spectacular fireworks display lighting up Gorey’s night sky.
Committee member Cllr Fionntan O Suilleabhain said the fabulous modern Christmas lights were acquired at a total cost of €100,000 with Wexford County Council providing €80,000 while local businesses contributed €20,000. Shop Local This Christmas
With surveys showing an ever-increasing volume of online sales to multinational companies on ‘Black Friday’, The Christmas Committee Chair Sinead O’Sullivan as well as Gorey Chamber are encouraging everyone to ‘Shop Local’ instead - ‘You are not just protecting local jobs and businesses, but Gorey, as we all know, is a bustling market town which can cater for all our Christmas needs’ said Chamber CEO and committee member, Diarmuid Devereux.
Following the huge success of a ‘Very GOReY’ Halloween where local businesses excelled with their window displays, there will also be a Christmas Window Competition as well as one for the best Christmas Jumper.
Don’t forget to wear your Santa Hat on the night to truly participate in what we hope will be a magical experience for all involved.