The Kerryman (South Kerry Edition)
Santa Claus is coming to town on Friday
“CHRISTMAS is a wonderful time of year for both young and old. It gives us an opportunity to welcome home family, meet up with old friends, reflect on what the past year has brought and look forward to what next year will bring,” said Castleisland Chamber Alliance Chairman, Michael John Kearney by way of reminding the people of the area - great and small – that celebrations will break out in the town on this Friday afternoon and evening.
At 2.30pm on December 6, Fr Brick will bless the crib at the fountain and the ceremony will be accompanied by the choir from Scoil Íde, Curranes National School.
“Our Christmas street event is taking place at 6pm at the rear of Walsh Electrical in the Car Park. We would like to take this opportunity to thank Joe Walsh for hosting us once again this year,” said Mr. Kearney.
“To facilitate members of our community with sensory needs, Santa will be available to meet these children at an earlier time from 5pm to 5.40pm.
Bookings are now being taken for the Sensory Santa through Castleisland Chamber Alliance Facebook page.
“From 6pm, Gerdie Murphy, MC and DJ Dylan will be on stage and Santa and his elves will be ready to greet the public.
“Children will get an opportunity to meet Santa and pick up their free gift. Face painting and novelty balloons will also keep the children entertained while free Hot Chocolate and a BBQ will all add to the festive atmosphere.
“The evening’s celebrations will culminate in a fantastic fireworks display. This year, we are delighted to have added an eye-catching Christmas Tree at the fountain to add to our new street lights.
“As you know 2018 is the 50th anniversary of the St. Mary’s Castleisland Basketball Blitz and we are delighted to have Donal ‘Duke’ O’Connor, founding member of the blitz and a fantastic community person in the town, to turn on our lights, ahead of St. Mary’s celebratory event which kicks off at the River Island Hotel at 8pm.
“I would like to take this opportunity to wish our members and our entire community a happy and safe Christmas and hope to see you all on Friday,” Mr. Kearney concluded.