Great community support for a Tipperary Christmas Market filled with festive cheer
Kickham P laza Clonmel
The Kickham Plaza in Clonmel was filled with festive cheer last weekend as the Christmas Market enjoyed a hugely successful day, bringing the community together in a joyful celebration before Christmas.
Organisers and visitors alike felt truly blessed to get one full day on the plaza, making the most of the occasion despite challenging weather conditions later in the weekend.
Starting with a dry but windy morning, a steady stream of visitors enjoyed the official opening by Pat English, Mayor of Clonmel followed by a stunning St. Mary’s Church Choir performance that created a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.
A huge number of stalls lined the plaza, offering a wide range of gifts, crafts, festive foods and decorations. A number of stallholders sold out due to a strong, steady footfall throughout the day, while others experienced steady sales culminating in everyone describing the market as a great success and praised the support shown by the local community.
The arrival of St. Peter & Paul’s Primary School band attracted a large number of families and friends who delighted the crowd with a lively selection of popular Christmas tunes. Faces lit up when each band member received a selection box sponsored by Adie Logue.
A steady stream of young children visited the chapel on the plaza for the Christmas Tales as they got a chance to enjoy festive tales in a cosy and enchanting setting.
The arrival of Santa was definitely another highlight as he met with the children and their parents to tell them all about the presents that his elves are preparing. A little chocolate treat was an added bonus.
Students from Loreto Secondary School, Gaelcholáiste Chéitinn, CBS High School, and Raheen College were on hand to help all the stallholders, provide live entertainment, showcase and sell their enterprising products, keep the Plaza litter free and do a much needed collection for St. Vincent de Paul.
Unfortunately, due to adverse weather conditions, the second day of the Christmas Market had to be cancelled in the interest of public safety. While disappointing, the decision was met with understanding from both traders and visitors.
Despite this, the event was a resounding success. Great credit goes to the schools, their TY coordinators and teachers, the County Council, STAC, Community volunteers, Chamber of Commerce and the Value Center (sponsor).
Being blessed with one vibrant and memorable day on the plaza allowed the Christmas Market to spread festive cheer, support local businesses and craftspeople and create lasting memories for all who attended.