The magic of Christmas came alive in Brother Leo Park, Tullow over the weekend as over 2000 people gathered to experience the much-anticipated Lightfest Tullow. Hosted by Carlow County Council in partnership with St. Patrick’s GAA, Tullow, this festive celebration brought together families, friends, and community members for a day of joy and holiday cheer.
The event featured an array of attractions that delighted attendees of all ages. From local Christmas markets brimming with unique gifts and seasonal treats to the enchanting Santa’s Grotto, families immersed themselves in the spirit of the season. Children enjoyed face painting and a magical visit with Santa, while the evening culminated in a dazzling fireworks display, lighting up the winter night with festive brilliance.
At the heart of the event was a strong sense of community, a sentiment underscored by Cllr. Brian O’Donoghue , Cathaoirleach of Tullow Municipal District who expressed the importance of unity and collective celebration during the holiday season: “The festive season is more than just lights and decorations; it is about bringing people together to share joy, kindness, and connection. Events like Lightfest demonstrate the incredible value of community. This celebration wouldn’t have been possible without the tireless efforts of our volunteers, the unwavering support of St. Patrick’s GAA, and the strong partnership with Carlow County Council. Together, we’ve created something truly magical, showing that when communities come together, extraordinary things happen.”
This partnership between the Council, local organizations, and volunteers reflects the Council’s broader commitment to working with communities across the county. Through initiatives like Lightfest, Carlow County Council continues to play an integral role in fostering community spirit and supporting projects that enrich the lives of residents.
Another significant aspect of Lightfest & #Shoplocalshopcarlow is its focus on supporting local businesses, a priority emphasized by Kieran Comerford , Head of Economic Development & Enterprise , who highlighted the economic and social impact of shopping locally:
“Initiatives like ShopLocalShopCarlow are essential for sustaining jobs in our towns and villages. They help strengthen the vital connections between local employers and the community groups they support. By choosing to shop locally, we not only boost our economy but also ensure that our community thrives together, especially during this festive period.”
The excitement doesn’t end with Tullow’s Lightfest. This coming weekend, the festivities continue with the Lightfest Carnival in Bagenalstown and two additional circus shows at The Exchange, with tickets available on Eventbrite. These events are set to bring even more magic, joy, and community spirit to Carlow.
