Action-packed programme for Christmas in Mayo town

Christmas in Castlebar promises fun-filled festivities following the recent announcement of an action-packed programme of events in the town.

Mayo County Council has joined forced with a number of organisations and businesses to deliver some extra Christmas cheer in the county town this year.

The council has benefitted from Department funding and Minister Alan Dillon’s local Government allocation to develop a number of initiatives that are either free or available at very low cost to the public.

David Mellett, Head of Castlebar Municipal District, delivered a rundown of the events to councillors at the monthly meeting of the District.

“We hope this is something we can build on going forward,” said Mr Mellett.

The programme included Christmas Movies Under the Stars and Christmas Markets at Collectors Lane (located to the rear of Bridge St Bar); Christmas Magic in the Barracks; the Christmas Mall Express (a train ride for children); and a host of other events thoughout the festive period. 

“There is a huge offering of events in Castlebar this Christmas. It will be an attraction which will encourage people to stay in Castlebar or come and visit Castlebar,” said Mr Mellett.

The Castlebar Christmas Lights will be switched on at Market Square on November 29 with refreshments and live music.

The floating tree will return at Lough Lannagh and there will also be a new lakeside lighting display.

Mr Mellett told councillors that the usual Mall display will be slightly diminished this year due to some lighting issues.

He said lights will be wrapped around the trunks of the trees instead. “It will still be an impressive display but not what we are used to,” Mr Mellett remarked.

Cllr Donna Sheridan said the programme of events is hugely exciting for Castlebar.

Her fellow councillors complimented Castlebar Muncipal District for delivering the initiative.

"It's a great schedule of events," stated Cllr Ger Deere.