Press Release: Carlow’s unique and relaxed Christmas experience attracts families from all over Ireland

Carlow’s unique and relaxed Christmas experience attracts families from all over Ireland

• 600 jobs created in the county to deliver quality produce and service at Christmas

• A unique and magical Sensory Display for family members with special needs

• Santa, Elves, Letter Writing Workshops for kids

• Shops, accommodation and entertainment all in close proximity

Over 600 people from Carlow County have been employed to deliver a magical Christmas experience for families from all over Ireland.

Research shows that since all Christmas in Carlow events have united to create this unique and relaxed Christmas experience, 70% of those visiting Carlow in November and December are from other counties in Ireland.

Speaking about the official start of Christmas in Carlow, Yvonne Jones – Chairperson of Christmas in Carlow Committee, said:

“More and more families don’t want the frenzy associated with Christmas shopping and are looking for a small-town feel, with all the stores and attractions of the city.”

“Over the years we have created an experience where families enjoy a relaxed atmosphere in Carlow where they will get value for money. Christmas in Carlow continues to attract more families, resulting in the creation of jobs in every sector in the county including farms, food producers, accommodation, retail, arts and culture,” Ms Jones added.  

Mr John Brophy, Vice President of County Carlow – Chamber of Commerce said that the shopping centre, which is the biggest in the South East, has joined forces with local retail outlets to make sure visitors have access to everything required for Christmas within walking distance.

“There’s a brilliant atmosphere without the mad dash feeling in the bigger cities. Families tend to come for a day of shopping, but take in lots of the attractions locally too – making a trip a brilliant day out for the whole family.”

“We say that Carlow has ‘city styles without the miles’. So when you come here you have easy access to outlets that offer everything from fashion, food, toys or jewellery. And in order to make it easier for you to shop, the parking in Carlow is free at this time of the year,” he said.

Renowned chef Catherine Fulvio alongside Colette Fitzpatrick is presenting Carlow’s Culinary Christmas on Wednesday 9th December. This event will showcase an impressive collection of food and drink producers from National manufacturers to local artisan suppliers that Carlow has to offer.

Ms Ann Mulrooney (Chief Executive Officer, Visual Centre for Contemporary Art, Carlow) highlighted that many of the families visiting Christmas in Carlow take in the many arts and culture venues.

“The Delta Centre and Sensory Gardens are particularly special as it provides a unique and wonderful Christmas experience for those with special needs.” she explained.

“The support and effort put in by local businesses and communities is enabling Carlow to truly embrace the Christmas spirit and ensure that anyone who visits will be enthralled by all events and activities Carlow has to offer.  We are encouraging everyone who visits Christmas in Carlow to let us know on social media by sharing #ChristmasinCarlow or visit our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/christmascarlow/?fref=ts and Twitter page https://twitter.com/CarlowChristmas to share the Carlow Christmas spirit”, Ms Mulrooney added.

Carlow festive season officially begun on 28 November and will run right up to Christmas Eve.  There are many free events happening throughout the county for all the family making it the perfect place to getaway and relax, also throughout the month of December there will be free parking in council pay & display car parks. Avoid the rush and enjoy the relaxing shopping, culinary experiences and Christmas activities that are on offer in Carlow.

For further information visit www.carlowtourism.com/christmasincarlow or visit Facebook https://www.facebook.com/christmascarlow/?fref=ts and Twitter page https://twitter.com/CarlowChristmas to keep up to date with Christmas in Carlow.

Also, check out Christmas in Carlow’s teaser video to see what festive highlights are on offer: Once Upon a Christmas in Carlow