Dunamaise Art Centre Christmas market was a runaway success
Santa Claus and his helper Ruby Dempsey (front row) pictured with the Dunamaise Arts Centre team, Rebecca Deegan, Martina Lawless, Laura Dunne and Pauline Dunne
THE Dunamaise Arts Centre held its first Christmas Market on the last weekend of November.
Not only did the cosy, festive fair feature high-quality handcrafted goods, locally produced foods and holiday décor that captured the spirit of the county, but the main man himself, Santa, arrived on the Saturday to meet local children and their families.
Each night as the market ended, the theatre doors opened and the fantastic 65 Kitchen Choir took to the stage for their annual Christmas concert of classic hits and festive favourites.
While the market featured a selection of talented artists and makers who offered a diverse range of holiday gifts and artisan products, visitors also enjoyed festive food and beverages, including mulled wine, teas, coffees and seasonal treats provided by Laois Taste and the Dunamaise Bar.
By all accounts, the Christmas Market was a huge success with shoppers of all ages as well as the creative vendors, who came from near and far to showcase their wonderful crafts.
The event was organised by the art centre’s artist-in-residence Rebecca Deegan, front-of-house manager Martina Lawless and box-office manager Laura Dunne.
Speaking to the ***Laois Nationalist*** beside Santa’s Grotto, Laura said that the event will likely become an annual fixture.
She said: “Martina, Rebecca and I came up with the idea of holding a Christmas Market based on feedback from the artists, who didn’t have a street market this year.
“We like to thrive on hosting local makers, artists of all kinds, makers, crafters and artisan food providers. It’s brilliant to see so many families and children coming into the centre. The Christmas Market has been very successful and it’s a great way to kick-off the festive season here at the Dunamaise.” The organisers wish to thank everyone who supported the Christmas Market in any way. The wonderful event marked the beginning of Dunamaise Arts Centre’s festive season of concerts, performances and special events.
A full list of events for the rest of the festive season and into New Year is available by logging onto www.dunamaise.ie.
