Christmas time is a major economic asset to Dingle...

THE Dingle Peninsula is gearing up for an entertaining week-long Christmas and New Year celebration, beginning with Wren’s Day and ending with the thrilling atmosphere in town on New Year’s Eve and early into New Year’s Day.

The town, and indeed much of the surrounding Corca Dhuibhne Peninsula, has seen a huge increase in the numbers of visitors flocking to the area for the holiday period, mainly leading up to the New Year’s Celebrations. It is estimated that the area benefits to the extent of approximately €2 million and the local Business Chamber and Tourism Alliance have made a huge effort to provide a festive atmosphere in the town over the past decade.

“Last year the guesthouses, hotels and B&Bs were packed to capacity and this is expected to happen again this year as reports suggest that bookings are coming in rapidly. The well renowned Dingle pubs and late night venues will of course provide quality music and entertainment right through the Christmas period,” said Ciarán Williams.

Members of the Green and Gold wren from Dingle get set for the Wren day march in the town which takes place in Dingle each year.

Yasmina Beaujouran and Yoanna Marcheva looking forward to a sweet Christmas in Garvey’s Supervalu, Dingle.

Garvey’s SuperValu, Dingle, bakers Rima Andrikiene and Arta Alisauskiene with one of their Christmas creations.