Frostival promises a spectacular start to Christmas in Dundalk

Experience the magic of Christmas at Frostival Winter Festival kicking off on Saturday 14th of November in Dundalk. The countdown has officially begun and its full steam ahead with a jam-packed schedule of events, including ‘The Big Switch-On’ of Ireland’s Greatest Christmas Tree at 5.30pm on the Saturday, and the Carnival of Light Parade at 5.30pm on Sunday the 15th of November.

The town centre is set to transform into a winter fairytale brought to life, providing a magical setting for our community to come together, make memories and celebrate the start of the festive season.

The procession starts at The Green Church and will weave its way through Clanbrassil Street, Crowe Street, Francis Street and Park Street, turning at Oscar’s corner and finishing on the Longwalk.

Spectators can look forward to a festive display featuring Dancing Christmas Stars, the enchanting Sugar Plum Fairy, a fire-spinning Nutcracker Prince and of course, Santa Claus himself, high above the crowds on his very own magical bicycle!

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Don’t miss The Northern Lights Christmas Illuminations, live shows will take place from 5.30pm on Saturday the 14th, and from 5pm on Sunday the 15th at Market Square. This enchanting audio-visual spectacular is a festive fusion of sights & sounds, with dazzling lights dancing to the rhythm of classic Christmas songs – a truly magical experience!

Billy Doyle, CEO, North East Credit Union, said "North East Credit Union is proud to continue as main sponsor of Frostival, a partnership that goes back many years to our time as Dundalk Credit Union.

Frostival has grown from a local celebration into one of the region’s most anticipated Christmas festivals, bringing people from across the North East into the heart of Dundalk for the lights switch-on, the parade and the festive atmosphere. We are delighted to play our part in making it happen once again."

Martin Mc Elligott, Town Centre Commercial Manager, explained “Frostival is one of Dundalk’s largest annual public gatherings, bringing together an extensive programme of events, activities and experiences for our community to enjoy. Delivering an event of this scale requires significant collaboration, planning and investment, with key partnerships playing an essential role in its continued growth and success.

“As we celebrate five years in partnership with North East Credit Union, we recognise the shared vision that has brought us together: creating opportunities to unite our community, celebrate our town, showcase all that Dundalk has to offer and deliver memorable experiences for everyone.”

Martin continued “We would also like to recognise the continued support and commitment of Louth County Council. Their ongoing vision for Dundalk, and their dedication to creating a vibrant, welcoming and thriving town, play a vital role in making Frostival the much-loved celebration it has become, and in turn attracting visitors and supporting a vibrant local economy.

"These partnerships represent a shared belief in Dundalk and the value of bringing people together. It is through this collective commitment that we can continue to grow Frostival, celebrate our town and create a Christmas experience that our community can be proud of."

David Conway, Chief Executive of Louth County Council, said: “Frostival is a wonderful opportunity to showcase Louth at its very best, bringing our community together and shining a spotlight on Dundalk, our local businesses and all that our county has to offer.

It marks the start of the Christmas season, filling the town with festive spirit and creating a warm welcome for visitors. Louth County Council is proud to continue its partnership with Dundalk BIDS in supporting this special event.

“I warmly invite everyone, from near and far, to visit Dundalk, experience the magic of Frostival and enjoy this amazing celebration.”

The festival is expanding this year with The Frostival Markets set to take place on Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th November, before returning on Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd November with plenty to see, browse and enjoy. And that's not all, the Frostival Fairgrounds will run continuously from the 14th to the 22nd!

Back by popular demand, the much-loved Frostival Express will be rolling into The Demense on Saturday, 14th November, from 11am to 7pm for one day only!

Celebrating the best of local food and drink, A Taste of Frostival makes its debut at the festival this year. This exciting new addition, in partnership with Visit Louth and Fáilte Ireland, will take place from at 10am on the 21st and 22nd November at North East Credit Union, 4 – 5 Clanbrassil, be sure to pop in and discover some the fantastic local produce the region has to offer.

And there's more for food lovers, with two special cookery demonstrations from Orla Drumgoole of Irish Mammy Cooks taking place on the Sunday afternoon. Tickets are free but booking via Eventbrite is essential.

With spectacular lights, the colourful Carnival of Light Parade, festive markets, fairground attractions, the return of the much-loved Frostival Express and exciting new experiences celebrating local food and drink, Frostival promises nine days of festive fun and entertainment from 14th to 22nd November, making Dundalk the place to be this November.

Martin concluded: “We would like to express our sincere thanks and appreciation to our sponsors – North East Credit Union (Community Sponsor), Louth County Council (Civic Sponsor), and Dundalk Chamber (Associate Sponsor).

Their continued support plays an important role in helping us deliver Frostival and create a fantastic festive experience for the town, local businesses and visitors alike.”

For more information and updates, follow Frostival on social media or contact Dundalk BIDS on 042 935 2842.