A Longford Christmas: Edgeworthstown to shimmer for the arrival of Santa

Edgeworthstown Christmas Lights are returning for another year, and the big switch on will take place on Sunday, November 30 from 6pm.

This annual event promises to return the festive cheer that is an iconic part of the town’s calendar.

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Run by the Traders’ Association who will all be in attendance, the switch on will take place outside the Edgeworthstown Library, on the pavilion, where both the tree and lights will bring some sparkle. Like every year, there will be a special appearance by Santa and Mrs Claus, who will be arriving in a fire engine, to come do some speeches and interact with the crowd and children.

Brigid Duffy, who is part of the association and helps organise this event, gave some insight into what to expect for those ready to welcome Christmas 2025.

“On the night, we normally have some hot drinks, mulled wine, and Santa visit. We make treat bags for the children. We have a sale group from the charity shop, Fabulous Finds, and a local ladies’ group who do arts and crafts, jewellery, Christmas wreaths and holiday decorations. We have a bake sale if you want something sweet, or some nice decorations. We have all those on the night,” she revealed.

“The Christmas lights are erected thanks to the efforts of the Traders Association. All members are there on the night, handing out hot chocolates, the stalls and overseeing stewarding.”

This year, Jimmy Connell “Jimmy Jests” will be revving up the crowd prior to the lights switch on, to bring entertainment and joy. There will also be live music from Peter Costello, as well as from the St Mary’s School Choir.

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Jimmy said:

“The annual switching on of the Christmas lights in Edgeworthstown is the highlight of the year. It is the beginning of a time for families and festivities. In recent years the Mostrim Traders have upgraded the lights and the feature is a huge tree which takes pride of place on the plaza in front of the library.

“As with every year we are expecting large crowds to gather for the official switch on of the lights, with music from Peter Costello and also the arrival of Santa Claus to meet and greet with all the kids. There will be plenty of hot chocolate and treats for all with mulled wine (for the adults) to keep everyone warm and in good cheer.”

Everybody is welcome to attend this annual Christmas opening.