Festive period getting underway across Inishowen
Buncrana Christmas lights to be switched on tonight
With Christmas just around the corner, Inishowen is getting into the festive spirit.
This weekend will see the peninsula shine a little bit brighter as the annual Christmas tree switch-ons begin.
The big switch-ons begin in Buncrana tonight. The lights will illuminate a brand new tree in Market Square from 7pm sharp.
Santa will be arriving just before 7pm and there will be music beforehand and dancers in the street. There will also be a band to play Christmas music and everyone is welcome.
Christmas Lights committee member, Cllr Nicholas Crossan is encouraging everyone to attend.
"Santa will arrive at the Market Square at 7pm sharp, so get along early," Cllr Crossan said. "Our traditional crib will be there now it will joined by some new visitors, so come along to see our new attractions, you wont be disappointed.
"The committee would like to thank our business people who sponsored and donated to our appeal to help keep Buncrana well lit for Christmas.
"We would like invite as many as possible to turn out to welcome Santa to Buncrana and we wish a very Merry Christmas to everyone."
Then on Sunday, two towns in north Inishowen will be switched on, starting with Moville at 5pm.
Remembrance bows for the tree will be available in The Cosy Cottage, Red's and Norries Coffee shop at the recommended donation of €5.
The committee took the decision this year, due to rising electricity costs, to upgrade all the lighting for the tree to low voltage led lights, at a cost of €3,000.
Hot on the heels of Moville, the Carndonagh Christmas lights will be turned on at 6pm on Sunday at the Diamond. Santa is also believed to be making a visit.
The committee is running a draw this year also, at 10 euro per line, with the top prize of €1,500, second prize of €750 and third prize of €250. The draw will take place on New Year’s Eve. See www.carntree.ie for full details.
Santa will arriving at his Grotto on Friday, December 9 at 6.30pm at Muff Community Park, €5 per child which includes disco, meet with Santa and a gift.
A number of Christmas Craft Fairs and Bazaars are also taking place around the peninsula in the coming weeks.