'Outstanding' Abbeyleix group wins at Laois Community & Voluntary Awards
Abbeyleix Christmas Lights and Market wins the Arts, Culture and Heritage Award
The team behind the Abbeyleix Christmas Lights and Market was praised for ‘showcasing outstanding volunteerism’ on winning the Climate Action Category of the Laois Community and Voluntary Awards 2026.
The Arts, Culture and Heritage Award recognises organisations that conserve, protect and promote our incredible local, national and international culture and enrich it with music, song, dance, visual arts and events in communities across the county.
“Each of the nominees plays a vital role in preserving traditions, celebrating creativity and fostering a sense of place and belonging,” said the Awards organisers.
The judges were fulsome in their praise of the Abbeyleix Christmas Lights and Market.
“This group is an outstanding example of how community spirit, volunteerism and collaboration can grow into something truly special”. The group’s journey demonstrates exceptional commitment, ambition and progression and exemplifies the very best of community-led development, showcasing outstanding volunteerism, partnership, community pride and Christmas spirit.
“From its beginnings in 2011, this Group’s initiative has continually evolved, bringing together the whole community, local businesses and visitors alike and making a lasting, positive impact on their community,” said the citation.
The Award is sponsored jointly by Laois County Council’s Arts and Heritage Offices. The Chief Executive of Laois County Council, Michael Rainey, presented the winners with €500 and a Galway Crystal piece to commemorate the achievement.
He presented runners-up prize of €250 to the Portlaoise Pantomime Group.
The nominees in this category were:
- Portlaoise Musical Society
- Abbeyleix Christmas Lights & Market
- Comhaltas Portlaoise
- Clonad GAA
- Malva Ukrainian Cultural & Art Group
- Portlaoise Pantomime Group
The award was presented at a gala reception in the Midlands Park Hotel in Portlaoise on Friday, November 13.
This is the 17th year of the awards, which were hosted by Laois County Council in association with Laois Public Participation Network and sponsored by People First Credit Union, Laois Sports Partnership, Connect Laois, and Laois Volunteer Centre.
The Leinster Express / Laois Live is the Media Partner.