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“We’re really looking forward to a busy Christmas season,” said a spokesperson from Cootehill Chamber, who’s urging consumers to shop local this Christmas and keep money circulating in the town.
The Christmas season kicks off officially in Cootehill this coming weekend with the arrival of Santa for his annual visit to St Michael’s Hall on Saturday, November 18, from 12 noon to 5pm, preceded by a dedicated ‘Quiet Time’ slot for children with special needs.
As in the past, the stage is turned into a setting worthy of Santa’s Grotto in Lapland by local artist Lidila of Fairy Princess Parties. The ‘game for a laugh’ Transition Year students from St Aidan’s will be on hand to help with face painting and general entertainment.
Each child will receive a toy, along with a goody bag containing items donated by generous local businesses. The sponsors are: Link Credit Union, Hanley Energy, StayWell McCrystal Pharmacy, Cootehill Care Plus Pharmacy, House of Flowers and Foys SuperValu. Slots for Santa were seamlessly booked through the award-winning Cootehill.ie website.
From 5pm, probably the finest choir in Co Cavan, St Michael’s Choir and Friends, will take up their place on Market Street to belt out a medley of Christmas carols under the direction of Bernadette Curtis.
Santa is scheduled to arrive in style around 6pm to perform the very important task of switching on the stunning Christmas Lights. Large numbers of townspeople are expected to come out for this annual spectacle.
Sunday, November 19, will see the Pig Market and main public carpark transformed into a Winter Wonderland Christmas Market.
The chamber promises it will rival anything seen on the continent. “This year we have nearly 70 vendors booked with a delectable display of tasty treats, mulled wine, kombucha, homemade Christmas decorations, authentic crafts and novelty gifts; together with hot food and a dedicated dining marquee,” teases the spokesperson.
Entertainment throughout the afternoon will be provided by the local CCE branch musicians, followed by Tullyvin Musical Society fresh from their ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ success last month. The Aisteoiri Muinchille drama group, fresh from their One Act Drama successes, will also perform their hilarious nativity play.
“We’ll have more surprises in the way of street entertainment. Please make sure to spread the word as it promises to be a fantastic family fun day out again, provided the weather co-operates. We promise you won’t be disappointed,” assured the spokesperson.
On top of that Cootehill Chamber will host its annual Christmas draw with thousands of euros in prizes to be won. Simply enter your name into the draw at any of the participating shops in town. Winners will be announced in stores and on social media.
Local retailers will run a number of Black Friday offers over the weekend.
Cootehill Town Vouchers can also be purchased and used in a selection of retail outlets around town.
Check out all online at www.cootehill.ie and follow Cootehill Chamber on social media apps.