The Kerryman (North Kerry)

Purcell family’s annual light show bigger and better than ever

- By STEPHEN FERNANE

KILLORGLIN has its very own winter wonderland this time of year as the home of the Purcell family near Sunhill is transforme­d into a festive-lighting extravagan­za that fills the hearts of children and adults while also raising money for local charities.

The house is about a mile from Killorglin town and you can’t miss it as even Santa himself could probably make out the house from the North Pole such are the bright and spectacula­r lights on show.

“We started doing it when our children were still small but we’ve continued it every year since for charity. It’s just something that’s got bigger and bigger each Christmas and people love it,” said Denise.

It takes about two weeks in total to erect the lights and Joe Purcell prepares the different festive scenes from trains, unicorns, and fairy village scenes. There is a lovely personal touch to the displays and Denise said she loves to see the faces of the children when they see the lights for the first time.

“It’s lovely to witness it and while you can put up as many lights as you like, it still needs the public to visit, walk around, enjoy the experience, and donate something to local charities. The whole aim is to give back to the important services we have in our community,” she added.

Last year’s illuminati­ons managed to raise over €1,300 for Joseph’s Home in Killorglin, who are again this year’s recipients along with Recovery Haven Killorglin. There are posters in Killorglin town giving directions to the house.

So be sure to wrap up warm and visit this festive light show for yourself.

 ??  ?? BELOW: Little Aoife McSweeney fairly lighting up herself as she meets a glowing Santa Claus and, left, with Siobhán McSweeney of Recovery Haven, Deputy Michael Healy Rae, Catherine O’Donoghue of Recovery Haven and Joe and Denise Purcell at the...
BELOW: Little Aoife McSweeney fairly lighting up herself as she meets a glowing Santa Claus and, left, with Siobhán McSweeney of Recovery Haven, Deputy Michael Healy Rae, Catherine O’Donoghue of Recovery Haven and Joe and Denise Purcell at the...
 ??  ??

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from Ireland