Santa Claus Is Coming To Town....

Arrival of Santa Claus Marks the Start of Christmas in Youghal



Yes, it’s definitely Christmas! Santa is here! Santa certainly visits boys and girls around the world in many different ways, but on Saturday 3rd December 2011, Santa made a spectacular entrance on water with the help of local sailing school, Aquatrek to the Quayside in Youghal. Organised by Youghal Town Council’s Heritage Committee, Santa was transported on horse with his ‘one horse open sleigh’ to The Mall Arts Centre for an afternoon of free fun and festivities where the children of Youghal were treated to a ‘free’ Santa visit.



Hundreds of kids turned out to greet Santa on the day, which saw the Youghal Pipe Band give of their time to accompany Santa to Market Square in the town for the turning on of the Christmas Lights. The occasion was made all the more special with a blessing by Canon Browne of the Christmas Crib which was presented by Youghal Chamber of Tourism & Development. Speaking about the event, organiser Clodagh Mahon thanked all those who assisted in making the event possible. “This event was meant to really lift the spirits of the families of Youghal and I really believe we managed to achieve that even for one day. We wanted to take the pressure off many hard-pressed families, providing a ‘free-Santa’ visit on the day. Our sponsors once again allowed us to undertake an entirely free event, really demonstrating the community Christmas spirit in the town.”

Local Mum, Zara Kelly was thrilled with the day, commenting: “Well done to everyone involved in the festivities. It was a fantastic day and very well organised and run by those involved. My 3 year old woke up this morning and said "Mom and Dad, thank you for my lovely day yesterday". Her smiles were all down to the hard work ye put into it. Thanks so much to all involved.

Following on the party atmosphere, the stunning surroundings of Youghal’s 13th century St. Mary’s Collegiate Church played host to the inaugural Medieval Christmas Market on Sunday 4th December 2011. With over 1200 people attending the event, it proved to be a one-stop shop for all Christmas gifts with in excess of 15 first class indoor stands on show. The magnificent setting showcased craft and food products of the highest calibre, including quality textiles, pottery, children’s medieval themed arts and crafts, jewellery, fine art, sculpture, confectionary, jams and preserves, cheeses and many more. Warmed mulled wine was on hand to warm the cockles of visitors as they browsed and was very gladly received by the visitors! This event was proudly organised by local volunteer, Catherine Desmond of the Youghal Heritage Committee. “We were really thrilled with the turnout on the day, and hope to build on the success of this year in years to come. This venue is such a wonderful setting, and is just another event in the calendar year to celebrate Youghal’s Medieval past, following on from the annual Medieval Festival each August.