Festive Family Experience and Lightfest 2022 events underway in Carlow

Cathaoirleach of Carlow County Council cllr Brian O’Donoghue said:

“We in Carlow County Council are delighted to support the communities of Co Carlow during the festive period and I am delighted to launch this programme. In particular I would like to compliment the community and business groups, who are hosting a variety of magical events for all during the 2022 festivities.”

In tandem with this programme, Carlow County Council is investing over €120,000 in festive lighting upgrades for Tullow, Bagenalstown and Carlow town to bring their systems up to date in terms of energy efficiency.

Consumers and businesses in County Carlow are being encouraged to shop local this Christmas and are reminded of the huge range of goods and services they can access on their own doorsteps as part of the #shoplocalshopcarlow campaign.

Séamus Doran, Assistant Head of Economic Development & Enterprise said:

“After seeing nearly 3000 people in Carlow Town brave the elements on Saturday for the turning on of the lights, concert and fireworks, this weekend we have Lightfest Events kicking off in partnership with the local communities in Tullow & Rathvilly with local talent, stands and fireworks in each location. On 11th December 2022 the Fireworks hit Bagenalstown for the final kick off event with Fireworks and Fun for the all the Family. I’d encourage people to follow #Carlowchristmas on Facebook, Twitter or go to www.localenteprise.ie/carlow for further information.”

The planned events include:

RATHVILLY

Wonderful arts crafts and gift stalls in Rathvilly GAA on Saturday 3 December from 5pm to 7pm with fun for all the family. The evening will end with a fabulous fireworks display. Everyone is more than welcome to join. This is a free event.

 Rathvilly GAA Club | Carlow | Facebook

 TULLOW

Christmas family fun night with Santa and Mrs Claus in Brother Leo Park on Saturday 3 December from 4pm to 6.30pm. Lots of local talent, including singers and dancers to keep you entertained; refreshments available. The evening will end with a fabulous fireworks display. This is a free event and everyone is welcome.

Develop Tullow Association Limited | Facebook

 BAGENALSTOWN

Christmas community fireworks display with music and cartoon characters in McGrath Park on Thursday 8 December from 6pm to 7.30pm. This is a free event. Everyone is more than welcome to join.

Bagenalstown Area Chamber of Business & Tourism | Facebook

 STUDENT EXCHANGE AT THE EXCHANGE

A week-long event run in The Exchange, Potato Market in Carlow town centre showcasing student business ideas as a part of the Student Enterprise Awards programme.

County Carlow – A Festive Family Experience | Facebook

 SANTA AT THE EXCHANGE

Santa is coming to The Exchange, Potato Market in Carlow town centre on 4 -8 December. Kids aged  up to 12 years can meet Santa, have fun on the bouncy castles, play family games and get their faces painted! Tickets for the event are available on eventbrite.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/santa-at-the-exchange-potato-market-carlow-tickets-458360397287

 FOOD, DRINK AND CRAFT FAIR

On Thursday 15 December, the Local Enterprise Office is delighted to host a Food, Drink and Craft Fair in The Exchange between 6pm and 9pm. Local vendors will display a variety of handmade goods. Visit to get the last bit of your Christmas shopping done and don’t forget to use the hashtag #shoplocalshopcarlow. If you’re an exhibitor and would like to book a stall, you can do it at https://www.localenterprise.ie/Carlow/Training-Events/Online-Bookings/Stall-Booking-for-Carlow-Exchange-%E2%80%93-Christmas-Food-Drink-Craft-Fair.html

“Christmas is all about community and the coming together of people to share experiences. Co Carlow has so much to offer people of all ages during the festive period and we are delighted to once again support our business community and community groups in putting together ‘County Carlow – A Festive Family Experience,” said Kieran.

For further information, log onto www.localenterprise.ie/carlow or Facebook on https://www.facebook.com/CarlowChristmas or call 059 9129783.