Shopping local is the best way to check items off your list this Christmas

THE countdown to Christmas has started in earnest. Shopping local is the best way to check items off your list this Christmas and ensure the lead up to the festive season is as enjoyable and stress-free as possible.

Arklow has once again pulled out all the stops to ensure that visitors and locals alike will not be disappointed by what’s on offer. From beauty, toys, festive fashion, giftware, floral arrangements and delicious treats, the local traders have something for everyone.

Whether it’s a beauty voucher or festive fashion, you are spoiled for choice when shopping for gifts for family and friends.

The Christmas Festival is also underway and saw Arklow’s Christmas lights switched on during a fun-filled ceremony on Saturday last.

Now in its fifth year, the festival encourages footfall into the town, showcase the musical and artistic talent in the town, give retailers a pre-Christmas boost and create a festive atmosphere in Arklow.

On Saturday, December 7, a Park Market will take place from noon to 12 to 6 p.m. The event will feature lots of ideas for gifts for young and old. There will also be a platform for budding musicians and artists to showcase their talents in a busking competition.

The Golden Ticket draw returns with prizes up for grabs in excess of €5,000. Entries can be left in over 90 shops and businesses throughout Arklow. All you have to do to enter is shop in any participating local outlet this festive season and fill out a complimentary draw ticket. Entry forms were also included in the programme of events delivered to homes across Arklow.

To enter the Best Dressed Festive Pet competition, send in photos of your festive felines and pooches to the Arklow Christmas Festival Facebook page to be in with a chance to win.

The Best Christmas Business Window Display Competition is also back. The beautifully dressed festive windows help to create wonderful atmosphere in the town. This competition is open to any business, so whether it’s a shop, hotel, hairdressers, restaurant, office or cafe, once the windows are decorated for Christmas, you are in the competition. This year’s winner will receive a superb advertising prize.

Windows will be independently judged and the winners will be announced at the prize-giving on Tuesday, December 17 in Arklow Library.