MAYOR WANTS NEW CHRISTMAS MARKET
MAYOR Frank Godfrey wants a continental-style Christmas market in Drogheda to build on the positive energy palpable in Drogheda since the Fleadh.
‘West Street could be pedestrianised from St Peter’s church to the Tholsel, with the street filled with stalls selling everything from crafts to foods to all sorts of Christmas produce.’
The Mayor went on to say that tourists travel in their thousands to Christmas markets all across Europe – and that Drogheda could be a magnet to these visitors. ‘We wouldn’t be a clone of these markets, but would bring a uniquely Irish flavour to it, maybe running the National Christmas Pudding competition, or workshops on how to tie up a rag pudding! Some fun activities behind the whole event that could attract thousands to the town.’
‘ This event will bring people together and should see a big bounce to business in the town. We need new initiatives to attract new shoppers to Drogheda and this is ideal. The 8 December is the traditional day for Christmas shopping and it falls on a Saturday this year, so I suggest that this is the perfect weekend to hold Drogheda’s inaugural town-centre Christmas Market!’
Hoping that local food and drink producers and retailers, as well as craft producers and others will come on board to help organise and run the event, Mayor Godfrey is holding a meeting from 6-7pm on Wednesday 17 October in The Westcourt Hotel about organising this event. All are welcome to attend.
‘ The Boyne Valley Food Series, The Cottage Market and other producers hold markets during the year, so I would encourage them to become involved, as well as Louth County Council,’ he concluded.