Athlone Christmas Market taking place this week
The Athlone Christmas Market takes place this week from today (Thursday) to Sunday, December 18, in Athlone Civic Square.
Again, the attractive timber market cabins secured by the Athlone Festival & Events Project Group two years ago will be provided for the traders. These cabins create a marvellous festive atmosphere and uniformity which will complement the fantastic range of products that will be on sale by local traders from both the Athlone and wider district areas.
Cllr Frankie Keena stated that he is delighted to be part of an excellent voluntary committee which is responsible for delivering this festival in conjunction with the Athlone Chamber of Commerce. The great support received from Gerry McInerney from the Chamber is much appreciated, added Cllr Keena.
This year the cabins will stretch from the canopy on Church St down towards the Post Office and others will extend into the Civic Square where some small carousels will be available for the enjoyment of the younger population. The canopy itself will be reserved for entertainment and to date the children from St Mary’s Primary School are booked in on the Friday and on Sunday the River Street Big Band will perform from 12noon to 1.30pm and they will be followed with some excellent music from Aidan Higgins. There are also some surprises in store for the Saturday.
In thanking Westmeath County Council for its generous financial support towards the market and Spectrum Signs for its sponsorship, Cllr Keena said he hopes the public will come along and support local traders and at the same time pick up that Christmas bargain.
Gerry McInerney, CEO of Athlone and District Chamber of Commerce stated that following the success of last year’s market there is a bigger demand for stalls this year. "We are delighted that the market is fully booked out for the four days and we do hope that people will shop local and give the traders support," he said.
Examples of the products that will be on sale range from handmade pieces of art using pebbles, handmade products from Waxy Wonders, Christmas garlands & candles, natural honey, scented candles, skincare cream by DeDanu, wood carvings, handmade jewellery and a wide range of products from the Irish Guide Dogs. There will also be an opportunity to get your Christmas puddings, mince pies, teas and coffees plus beautiful pizzas and crepes.
Cllr Keena said Athlone is fortunate to have so many local traders in the area all producing a fabulous range of gifts for everyone’s taste. This market builds on the excellent range of shops spread throughout Athlone so please shop local this Christmas, he urged.