The Liberties light up for Christmas

By Christopher Kelly

For many, attending the lighting of the Christmas tree in their local area is part of tradition; some, who remember going when Santa still left presents under the tree, will be hoping to bring their own kids along, while others might just be looking for some Christmas cheer.

Whatever your reason for heading along, Dublin City Council has numerous Christmas tree lighting ceremonies in the South Central area this year, with many taking place in the Liberties.

Monday 28th November 4.45pm: Dolphin’s Barn Church: Refreshments to be served afterwards in Dolphin’s Barn church.

Tuesday 29th November 6pm: Inchicore (outside Golden Soles Shoes, formally The Bank of Ireland): Refreshments afterwards in the Black Lion, Inchicore.

Wednesday  30th November 6pm: Cornmarket: Refreshments afterwards at St. Audeon’s school.

Thursday 1st December 6pm: Ballyfermot Community Civic Centre. Refreshments served afterwards in the Atrium.

Saturday  3rd December 7.15pm: Our Lady of Good Counsel, Mourn Road, Drimagh: Will take place after the 6.30pm mass and no refreshments provided afterwards.

Tuesday 6th December 6pm: Church of the Most Holy Sacrament Cherry Orchard: Refreshments served afterwards in St. Ultan’s School.

Wednesday 7th December 5pm: Crumlin Village Garda Station: Refreshments served afterwards in St. Agnes’ Parish Centre.

Thursday 8th December 6pm: Landen/Lally Roads Roundabout Lower Ballyfermot: Although there will be no official tree lighting ceremony, the tree will be lit from the 8th December.

Thursday 8th December 7pm: The Plaza, Chapelizod Village: Refreshments served after in the Band Room.

A good turnout is expected for all the ceremonies this year, but the disaster with overcrowding at the Grafton Street lighting ceremony earlier this month is sure to be on organiser’s minds. Huge crowds descended on the narrow pedestrian street in order to catch a glimpse of the lights being turned on, overwhelming organisers and people attending the event. In the interest of safety, the crowds were dispersed early, but this didn’t help the disappointment felt by many of those who travelled to attend.

So get down early to your local lighting this year, pick a good spot and enjoy.