Festival in a Van brings Christmas cheer to residential care homes across Louth

Festival in a Van brought joy, music, and festive spirit to six residential care homes in Louth this December with its special Christmas programme, A Christmas Tapestry—a magical weaving of stories and song to entertain, uplift, and brighten the winter season for residents and staff alike.

This special December tour was delivered in partnership with the Arts Office of Louth County Council and funded by Creative Ireland, supporting the shared goal of bringing high-quality arts experiences directly into local communities.

Travelling directly to the doorsteps of Nursing Homes, A Christmas Tapestry featured an exceptional line-up of artists.

Performances included Sonaírí, the stunning soprano Aime Dyer and tenor David Corr, whose voices filled each venue with warmth and wonder.

Storyteller Steve Lally brought captivating seasonal tales, while traditional music duo Róisín Ward Morrow and Breifne Holohan offered lively tunes to lift spirits and stir memories.

The unique blend of storytelling and music made each visit truly special.

Festival in a Van’s mission is to deliver high-quality arts experiences directly to communities that may face barriers to accessing live performances.

From care homes and rural communities to direct-provision centres and community groups, the organisation’s mission is
to bring arts, culture, and connection directly to local doorsteps.

Director Jackie Nowell explained: “Our aim has always been simple: to deliver the joy of live performance to people where they live. The impact we see—especially in care settings—is profound.

"You can feel the lift in the room. Music and stories bring people together, spark memories, and make a real difference to wellbeing.”

Staff across the participating homes highlighted how valuable and meaningful the performances were.

Swapna Varghese, St Joseph’s Hospital, Ardee, said: “The residents absolutely loved it.

"You could see the change in their faces—happy, animated, engaged. It brought the spirit of Christmas into the building in such a beautiful way.”

Elaine Murphy, Curam Care Home, Dundalk, added: “It was wonderful to have the arts come right to our doorstep.

"The music and stories lifted everyone’s spirits—residents and staff alike. It was a truly special afternoon that stayed with
people long after the van pulled away.”

Residents also expressed their appreciation, with many saying the performance had “brightened their day” and made them feel included in the festive season.

For more information on upcoming tours and programmes, visit www.festivalinavan.com.

For more information on the Creative Ireland Louth programme to go to www.creativeireland.gov.ie/en/Louth/.