Tralee gets ready for a massive Christmas Spraoi

‘WELL Santa, what do you think of Tralee?’

That was the question from Kerry GAA star Kieran Donaghy as he got ready to launch the 2016 Christmas Spraoi in Tralee which runs from November 26 all the way to New Year’s Eve.

Donaghy will join the Mayor of Tralee Terry O’Brien to switch on the Christmas Lights in Tralee in The Square from 4.30pm on Saturday November 26.

The town will be lit-up in full colour with two other family-fun events in the town centre on the same day – the Annual CH Christmas Santa Parade on the Mall at 2pm, organised by the team at CH Chemist and a dedication event to Christie Hennessy at 4pm at his statue near The Square.

The Christmas Spraoi in Tralee will feature 36 days of free parking, shopping, dining and independently organised events including a panto, fireworks displays, entertainment, markets, and party nights.

“Our message is clear – support local businesses when spending money on gifts or entertainment this Christmas. There isn’t a retailer, hotelier, restaurateur, publican, or attraction provider in Tralee who won’t go the extra mile to ensure that the Christmas experience for locals and visitors is the most memorable ever,” said Tralee Chamber Alliance President John Drummey.

“The business community in Tralee, from the town centre to Manor West Retail Park, will push the boat (or sleigh) out to meet the needs of shoppers and party-goers throughout the festive season. Tralee is the perfect destination for shopping trips offering a range of major brands, individual family owned stores, with free parking and hundreds of dining options,” said Mr Drummey

Tralee Chamber Alliance said it particularly welcomed the recent decision by councillors in Tralee Municipal District to offer free on-street parking and in council car parks from 1pm daily between December 5 and January 7.

“We realise that this is a crucial time of year for retailers while the provision of free parking offers shoppers another great reason to spend money in Tralee. Kerry County Council and Tralee Chamber Alliance are asking motorists to park responsibly in town. Please consider the consequences of abandoning a car on double-yellow lines or in a junction box to run a small errand. It simply causes traffic jams, costs retailers money and above all, it’s dangerous,” Said Mayor O’Brien.

The Christmas Spraoi in Tralee Calendar will be delivered to every home in Tralee, Listowel and Castleisland and it is currently available in many shops, hotels and restaurants in Tralee.

Full details of the Christmas Spraoi in Tralee and all the great events it involves are available from Tralee.ie and Facebook. If you’d like more information just contact Tralee Chamber Alliance at marketing@tralee.ie.