This year, Ballyhoura Country is going above and beyond to make Christmas a memorable occasion. With a number of events across the region, there are plenty of ways to celebrate the holiday season. Here are some of the festivities we’re most excited for:
Ballyhoura Comes Alive with Christmas Celebrations
Christmas markets
Rockbarton Garden Centre in Limerick is hosting its sixth annual boutique Christmas market on Sunday 5 December. This family-friendly day out encapsulates all the joys of the festive season, with delicious hot beverages, Christmas trees and plenty of fabulously unique gifts from independent local businesses.
Charleville Heritage Society in Cork will also host its own Christmas market at the Charleville Park Hotel on 5 December. There’s lots to see and do, with 50 locally-owned market stalls offering a selection of food, drinks, crafts and gifts. Rumour has it Santa will be making a guest appearance, so drop in and meet the man himself.
Slí Eile Farm is a mental health charity in Mallow, County Cork, offering a safe space for those experiencing difficulties. On 11 December, Slí Eile will host a Christmas fair in Burton Park, where you’re invited to join the festivities, explore some fantastic craft stalls, taste some delicious food, and feel the calming effects of the surrounding gardens. There will also be live music from local musicians, so a great time is guaranteed.
Drop in to the craft fair at St John’s Church, Knockainey on 17 December, where Santa will be making another stop along the way during his busiest season. With over 30 local crafters, you’ll be spoiled with gift ideas for your nearest and dearest.
Festive performances
Kick off the Christmas season with the final performance of the Castleconnell Autumn Concert Series, featuring the Navarra Quartet. The performance will take place on 30 November in All Saint’s Church, Castleconnell in partnership with Love Castleconnell, and will be introduced by Liz Nolan of RTE Lyric FM.
Ireland’s musical theatre legend Rebecca Storm –who has starred in shows including Blood Brothers, Les Miserables and Annie– will perform at the gala reopening concert at St. George’s Arts and Heritage Centre on 4 December. The former church has undergone a €500,000 refurbishment over the past 18 months and is now hosting live performances as one of Munster’s most unique performance venues.
St. George’s Arts and Heritage Centre hosts another fantastic night of music, as Cork-based opera singer Majella Cullagh is joined by the Bel Canto Choir on 11 December. Throughout the evening, the group will perform a selection of popular carols and songs.
Love them or hate them, the pantos must go on. This year, Friars Gate Theatre in Kilmallock presents Little Red Riding Hood’s Christmas Adventure by Centrestage Theatre Company. The show will open on 15 December for a limited amount of time, so get your tickets while you still can.
Find out more about Ballyhoura’s upcoming events here.
