Emma and Philly Corbett with their honey stand at the Christmas German Market in Clonmel last year
Last year in a heartwarming initiative, students from the four local secondary schools took the lead in organising Christmas German Markets, in the hope of bringing the charm and warmth of the festive season to the beautiful Kickham Plaza in Clonmel.
The students succeeded in creating a stunning, magical venue for locals to gather, chat with family and friends, buy some Christmas presents, soak up the festive atmosphere and create bonds and memories.
As a result, due to popular demand this two day magical event is to return and will take place on the 14th and 15th December. Already over 25 stallholders have requested a space on the Plaza but as the students do not want to exclude anyone they are reaching out to all other local businesses, artisans and craftspeople and will do their best to accommodate as many as possible a platform to showcase their products and set up food and coffee stalls.
T
his jubilant and magical event, being organised by the students from the High School, Loreto, Gaelcholáiste Chéitinn, Raheen College and the Pres in conjunction with the County Council, Leo Tipperary and Fóroige, hope to duplicate last years success by embracing the rich traditions of the Christmas markets which are renowned for their cosy atmosphere, twinkling lights, beautiful gifts and an array of festive treats.
Like last year live music will entertain the community as well as Santa making a stop off on his way from the North Pole.
Catherine O’Dwyer, High School TY Coordinator is very excited for the present TY students, ‘’as participating in the market is not only a fun and festive activity but also an important learning experience. They gain hands-on experience in running a business, from budgeting and marketing to customer service, all while working as a team. It’s a chance to step outside the classroom and put their skills to the test in a real-world setting. As Clonmel gears up for what promises to be another memorable Christmas Market, there is great excitement among our TY students. Whether you’re shopping for unique gifts, sampling festive treats, or simply soaking up the holiday atmosphere, the market promises something for everyone – all while supporting local talent.’’
According to Síle Ní Mharanáin ‘’the Transition Year students in Gaelcholáiste Chéitinn had an amazing experience participating in last year’s Christmas market, showcasing their creativity and entrepreneurial spirit. It was a fantastic opportunity for them to engage with the community, learn valuable business skills, and spread holiday cheer maraon le Gaeilge a scaipeadh i measc an phobail. We are thrilled to be engaging with the other secondary schools and welcome the first-ever Transition Year classes in Raheen College to join this wonderful event. We're sceitimíneach to be part of this year’s market and look forward to a deireadh seachtaine lán le craic is spraoi i mí na Nollag.’’
Mary O’Dwyer from the Presentation School is thrilled that the TY students are participating in the Christmas Markets again this year. ‘’It is a great opportunity for all the students to showcase their amazing talents and develop important life skills’’.
Zara Delahunty, a student in Loreto Secondary School was very enthusiastic in describing her experience, “We made wax melts and did a fundraiser for Los na Gréine with a hamper filled with goodies worth €65 and raised €150 for a very worthy cause and at the same time developed our ethical and social justice responsibilities in a fun way”. Likewise student Niamh O’Brien added “As part of the collaborative schools St. Vincent de. Paul committees collected donations from people on The Plaza and raised a substantial amount of money to help people and families who needed extra support during the festive season”
JOYOUS EVENT
As the students main aim is giving back to their community, all they are requesting from the participants is a nominal charge of 20 Euro for the two day event to sell their products. To request a registration form please email moreilly@cbshigh schoolclonmel.ie If you have already booked a space there is no need to email as a form will be sent out in due course.
The students hope that as many businesses, artisans and crafts people will participate and join with them in creating what is hoped to be another successful, spectacular and joyous event.
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