The sights, smells and sounds of the festive season will descend on the new covered market in Ennis (Maragadh na hInse) this weekend as the inaugural Ennis Christmas Market takes place.
Clare County Council, supported by market traders, is hosting the event which runs from Friday 2 December to Sunday 4 December. Visitors will be able to do their Christmas shopping with trader stalls featuring Arts & Crafts, Local and Artisan Foods and more throughout the three-day event.
Spin South West’s spinnies will be live from 3.30 p.m. on Friday to broadcast on the arrival of Santa Claus by Fire Engine. Santa and his elves will be based at a specially erected Christmas Market Grotto for the entire weekend. Children can visit Santa for free with donations, if desired, to Clare Crusaders.
A packed entertainment programme has been lined up for the weekend with scheduled performances from a range of musical groups including Ennis Musical Society, Ballyea/Clarecastle Youth Choir, Gaelscoil Mhichíl Cíosóg, Forever Young Singers, Ennis Brass Band, Holy Family Choir, Ennis Performing Arts, Ennis Guitar School, Holy Family Band, Ennis N.S. Band and Polish folk dance group, Inisowiacy.
Meanwhile, radio presenter Ger Sweeney will be present throughout the weekend providing festive music and entertainment while the newly crowned Munster Club Hurling Champions, Ballyea will visit the Christmas Market on Saturday evening.
Adults visiting the Christmas Market can treat themselves to mulled wine, a barbecue and a chocolate fountain, while there will be free candyfloss and face painting for younger guests.
Mayor of Ennis Councillor Ann Norton said, “I am really looking forward to Ennis Christmas Market which offers something for all of the family. I want to commend Clare County Council for organising this event which will help to promote the new Ennis Market as well as bring additional business into the town centre in the run up to Christmas.”