Tipperary students have organised a very special Christmas celebration

Following the overwhelming success of its inaugural event, the Christmas Market is back for its second year on Kickham Plaza, Clonmel, promising to once again light up the season with festive cheer, unique shopping opportunities, and cherished community traditions.

The local secondary schools Loreto, Raheen, Presentation, Gaelcholáiste Chéitinn and CBS High School, buoyed by the positive response to last year’s debut, have all worked diligently to once again create an enchanting experience for visitors of all ages.
The inaugural Christmas Market made an unforgettable first impression, drawing hundreds of visitors and earning rave reviews for its charming stalls, live entertainment, and family-friendly atmosphere. Vendors reported record-breaking sales, while attendees praised the warm and festive ambiance.

“The response last year exceeded all our expectations,” says Carol Creighton, Tipperary County Council.
“We knew there was a demand for a Christmas Market, but the way the community came out to support it was truly heartwarming,” she said.

Building on that success, the second annual Christmas Market has expanded its offerings, with even more vendors, entertainment, and interactive activities. The lighting will be enhanced and there will be over 40 vendors, including many returning favourites and new artisans offering handmade gifts, gourmet treats, and one-of-a-kind Christmas decorations.

There will be a hot food stall encouraging people to come and have breakfast, lunch or meet friends while experiencing the German tradition of coffee and cake on the Plaza.

Applefest will be supplying mouth watering mulled apple juice.
Local artists will be displaying and selling their artwork.

A packed schedule of performances including St. Peter & Paul’s Primary School Band, St. Mary’s Church Choir and Clonmel Community Choir are scheduled to take place.
Santa will be present on both days to greet the children and this year he is bringing Mrs. Claus to engage all ages in storytelling as well as a sing-along.

SPIRIT OF GIVING
To foster the spirit of giving, the students are partnering with the local St. Vincent de Paul Committee to have a bucket collection that will help local families over the festive season.

The market is becoming a cornerstone of the festive season.
“It’s not just about shopping; it’s about creating memories,” says local resident Mary O’Sullivan who attended with her family last year.
“We’ve already marked our calendars for this year!” she said.
The success of the Christmas Market underscores its potential to become a long-standing tradition. Last year TY students said “Our goal is to make this an event the community looks forward to every year.” We started the market and now want it to grow and evolve while staying true to the spirit of Christmas.”

With its vibrant atmosphere, diverse offerings, and commitment to community, the second annual Christmas Market is set to be another shining success. As the countdown to Christmas begins, there’s no better way to get into the holiday spirit than by experiencing the magic of this year’s market.

The Christmas Market will run from 10am - 4pm on both Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 December.