AS SANTA is preparing his sleigh for his big visit to all the good boys and girls across Limerick, there is plenty to do and see on Shannonside to get the festive spirit going early.
And despite the traditional ceremony for the turning on of the Christmas light still being a thing of the pre-Covid past and the Christmas village not returning to Arthur’s Quay Park this year, there is more than enough festive fun to warm even the most cynical of hearts.
As Mayor John Moran said, launching the Christmas programme of events in Limerick, this festive season will be a “time to come together”.
“This Christmas in Limerick, experience the wonder of the magical lights procession, festive markets, and other delightful events that bring our community together. From heartwarming performances to unique local shopping, there’s something for everyone. Let’s celebrate the spirit of the season with love, laughter, and the magic of togetherness.”
Christmas parade
On December 1, Limerick will be shining brightly as the LUXE Theatre Company blazes through the city with the Magical Winter’s Tail light parade.
Kicking off from Pery Square and proceeding through the city, the parade will see characters from festive fairytales come to live in a spectacular display of music, light, dance, and sparkle.
Limerick on Ice
Limerick on Ice is back at Arthur’s Quay Park, sending out its icy invitation to skaters of all levels.
The rink is now a Limerick Christmas stable and offers top family fun. And there is plenty of opportunity to get your skates on, with multiple daily sessions on offer until January 5.
Christmas Circus
The magic of the circus will be back on Shannonside from December 19 to January 7, with the return of Fossett’s Christmas Circus.
The family friendly show will feature wild acrobatics, daredevil stunts, and, of course, Otto the Clown.
Festive fashion
For the fashion forward and fabulous, King John’s Castle will set the backdrop for a Christmas fashion show on December 7 from 12pm.
Held last year on Thomas Street in Limerick City, this year’s fashion show is once again hosted by Celia Holman Lee and the Holman Lee Agency.
Tasty treats
Foodies will be in for a treat as Christmas comes to the Milk Market, as well as those looking to pick up unique, handmade gifts for someone special.
The Milk Market will host the Christmas Art Fair on December 1, the Transition Year Student Enterprise Market on December 6, a festive food and craft market on December 7, and the Christmas vinyl record fair on December 8.
The Boherbuoy Brass Band will put in a festive performance on December 8, while December 20 will see the return of the Limerick Suicide Watch open-air courtyard – which may feature a special visit from the jolly man in red himself.
The Milk Market will open daily from December 20 to 24 for the festive food and craft fair.
Fireside tales
Storyteller and musician David Collopy will be telling enthralling tales of Christmas gone by at a number of locations across the city.
Guests will be treated to tales of the Hunting of the Wren, Thomond Bridge on Christmas Eve, the bells of St Mary Cathedral, and more.
Family friendly and open to all ages, Christmas Tales by the Limerick Fireside will take place at the Hunt Museum on December 7 and 14 and at the People’s Museum of Limerick on December 13 and 20.
Santa’s Super Show
On December 1 at the TUS Millenium Theatre, Santa will be paying an extra exciting visit to put on a seasonal sing-along with Rudolph, Frosty the Snowman, and Elf. The man himself will be hanging around after the show to meet the young and the young at heart and hear all about what they want for Christmas.
