Longford Area hosts an abundance of festive Christmas events

Ballymahon is looking very festive with an abundance of Christmas lights and lots of festive events in the town and surrounding area.

The South Longford town's Christmas lights is a joint effort by the local Tidy Towns team and the Christmas lights committee.

The town being decorated in such an eye-catching way and the visit by Santa has set the tone for the festive season in Ballymahon.

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Local Fianna Fáil Councillor Pat O'Toole has praised the efforts of local volunteers.

He stated over 23 buildings on the Main Street have been illuminated and the town is looking 'very well'.

Ballymahon Traders Association decided to use additional funding to add to their lights instead of hosting a switch on event.

A new Christmas tree has been installed at the library, while there is now new festive lighting on the bridge.

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There was excitement last Sunday as Santa Claus made an appearance at the Bridgeways Family Resource Centre Ballymahon, much to the delight of local children.

There was also attractions such as face-painting, festive treats and an annual big raffle in aid of Longford Autism Youth Club to keep young and older people engaged and entertained.

Meanwhile, Abbeyshrule Christmas Craft fair will take place at The Rustic Inn on Sunday, December 15 with a large number of stalls showcasing handmade art, craft and foods.

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Santa will be in attendance from 2pm until 5pm with lots of gifts for the kids.

Meanwhile, a Children's Craft Workshop will take place in the Yard Hub from 12-midday to 1pm.

Later on the same day, at 5pm the hugely popular Christmas Lights Tractor Run in Abbeyshrule will take place for charity and Cllr O'Toole stated both events are sure to attract large numbers of people.

The starting point for all participating vehicles to register is Abbeyshrule Airfield, with registration starting at 3.30pm.

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The event is not limited to tractors and trucks and jeeps are also welcome.

Cllr O'Toole said there is always a very good turnout for the Abbeyshrule Christmas Craft Fair and it is the same with the Christmas Lights Tractor Run as well.

“It is organised by locals that fits in Ballymahon and on to Keenagh," he said. "There are always a lot of people who attend from the farming community and people involved with the tractor runs. It's usually very well supported.”

A GoFundMe page entitled ‘Xmas Lights Run for the Irish Kidney Association Longford’ has also been set up where people can make donations.