All welcome at celebration to unveil Bundoran’s meaningful new nativity scene

A group of men who came together earlier this year to form a walk and talk group to support each other’s mental health are now going the extra mile to make Christmas extra special for the Bundoran community. 

The Bundoran’s Men’s Shed is unveiling its first community project this Sunday, a stunning Natitivity Scene on the town’s Main Street. The unveiling will include carol singing, live music and performances, representatives from local churches, and refreshments served afterward at the Bundoran Community Centre. 

The event takes place on Sunday, December 1 at 5.30pm, marking a fantastic start to the festive season.

Founding member of the Men’s Walk and Talk Group and Bundoran’s Men Shed Colm Barrett said: “The Nativity Scene will be displayed at Rizzo’s Ice Cream Shop, between the two Olympic Amusement Centres. 

“The evening promises to be a magical celebration of community and Christmas cheer, with activities and entertainment for all ages. 

“All are welcome to join in the festivities, especially families with children - because the more, the merrier!

“This Nativity Scene is a testament to the Men’s Shed’s dedication to bringing people together and contributing to the community’s shared joy. The project was made possible through the generous support of donors, whose contributions have inspired even bigger plans for 2025.

“A special thank you goes out to the donors who made this dream a reality, the hardworking members of the Men’s Shed and the incredible women who support them.

“Join us this Sunday and be part of an unforgettable evening of festive joy, togetherness, and the true spirit of Christmas.

“From all of us at the Bundoran Men’s Shed - thank you, and see you there!”

Bundoran’s Men’s Shed ran a gofundme fundraiser to help meet the cost of the nativity.

Colm outlined how the group came about, and how they continue to benefit from the support they provide for each other. 

“A few of us came together after experiencing the impact of mental health struggles on our community,” he said. 

“We wanted to create a space where men could openly support each other, so we started a walking and talking group. Every Monday and Thursday at 7pm we meet at the Bundoran Church car park for an hour’s walk, a chance to connect, and to remind each other that no one has to face life’s challenges alone.

“Now, we’re taking the next step to support our community by creating something meaningful for everyone to enjoy.”

The event is being run in conjunction with the Christmas Lights Committee.

Bundoran’s Men’s Shed consists of a diverse group with a range of skills from carpenters to electricians. They constructed the manger and its lighting themselves, but ran the fundraiser to buy suitable figurines.

The group are delighted with the support they received to meet the cost of their chosen nativity set. 

Colm said: “For the Men’s Shed, this project represents more than just a Christmas display; it’s a chance to show how a small idea, fueled by community support, can grow into something meaningful. 

“It’s our first big project, and a successful one will motivate us to take on even more ways to support Bundoran.

“Each year, we plan to enhance the scene with new features, improved lighting, and seasonal decorations to make it even more special.

“This display will be our way of giving back to the place we call home, and we’d love for you to be part of it!”