Let there be light for Christmas

THE festive season will be kick-started this Friday evening when the Christmas lights around Ennis are turned on.
Ennis Town Council is encouraging the people of the town and environs to support the event, which promises to be a fun family occasion.
Town clerk, Eddie Power confirmed the lighting ceremony will be held at the Christmas tree at the Market Roundabout on Friday at 5pm.
The Christmas tree has been in place since the end of last week and the lights were being hung on the tree throughout the week, in advance of the festive ceremony.
“Mayor of Ennis, Councillor Tommy Brennan will turn on the lights at 5pm. Entertainment for the event will be by the children’s choir from the Holy Family School, who will perform a lively selection of Christmas songs and festive entertainment. While the ceremony takes place at the Christmas tree in the Market, all of the Christmas lights around the town will be turned on at the same time,” Mr Power commented.
He continued, “Seeing the Christmas lights going on really does mark the start of the Christmas season in town. Over the years, the lighting ceremony has become a lovely event in itself in the Ennis calendar. The event brings a lot of people to the town in the lead-up to Christmas and helps to create a seasonal atmosphere throughout Ennis.
“We recognise and acknowledge that it’s a difficult time for people because of the economic situation but hopefully the festive street decoration will help to lift people’s spirits and create a positive atmosphere.”
The lights will be illuminated every evening from Friday until after Little Christmas on January 6.
Some minor traffic diversions will be in place for a short time before and after the lighting ceremony.
Traditionally, many people who come to join in the lighting ceremony in Ennis every year remain in town to soak up the first of the Christmas atmosphere, taking some time to browse through the streets and shops.
“People always seem to feel that the Christmas feeling comes to town once the lights go on and we’d encourage as many people as possible to do that this year and support their local businesses. We’re hoping that the evening remains dry, at least for the duration of the event, making it more likely for people to support the event,” Mr Power added.