Galway is getting into the festive mood this week as the city gets ready to welcome the opening of the 2018 Christmas Market and switch on the holiday lights.
Expect a dazzling display of light and colour as the city council has set aside €150,000 for this year’s Christmas lights so residents of Galway and tourists alike can spend the season under a festive glow.
This year promises to be quite the spectacle as we ‘Light Up Galway’Â Â from Salthill, through the West End, the Latin Quarter, the Heart of Galway, Woodquay, Prospect Hill and the East Village around Eyre Square and Forster Street.
On top of the streets lights, ‘Light Up Galway’ will see large lighting installations and projections on many of the city’s iconic buildings, helping visitors navigate the city and creating wonderful photo opportunities for all.
The Christmas lights will officially be turned on at 6pm tomorrow by our friend from the far North.
The Santa Express train will make its way from Raven’s Terrace through the city, stopping in the Latin Quarter, Woodquay, and Eyre Square to switch on the lights.
The festival parade will be accompanied by Mickie and Minnie Mouse and a whole host of Christmas themed characters.
This year’s events will see a collection on the night for Rosabel’s Room to help raise awareness and support for those suffering from loss of a love one.
Friday also marks the opening of Galway’s famous Continental Christmas Market.
Anyone near Eyre Square this week will have seen the Big Wheel going up in Eyre Square in preparation for the market’s opening tomorrow evening.
The 2018 Galway Christmas Market will run for five weeks from Friday, November 16 through to Saturday, December 22.
The 2017 Christmas Market brought in over 350,000 visitors to Galway city, a record that we can hope to surpass this year.
Making their return for the ninth annual market are Helter Skelter, the carousel, and the ever popular beer tent which will be playing host to various events.
Along with the amusement rides and food, visitor to the Christmas market can expect plenty of street music, choirs, and other performers.
Once again kids can enjoy Santa’s Grotto which is being managed by local charities.
Or if you’re just there to wander the stalls, then be sure to take advantage of the range of artisan Christmas gifts to be found.
The Christmas Market will open to all at 6pm on Friday evening.
