Christmas Cheer gets the Green Light!

Following consultation with the business people, the Christmas Lights Committee (as part of the Ballinasloe Town Team) are proceeding with the lighting of the Christmas lights with the “Switch On Ceremony” now confirmed for  Sunday 27th November at 6:00pm.
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”In 2020, a massive investment was made by the community for the purchase of the new LED energy efficient Christmas Lights.  Because of this, we feel it’s important to continue to light up our town and celebrate. We want to give everyone in the area as bright a Christmas as possible, it’s a magical time and without the lights it really will be a lot duller.  There are many diasporas travelling home for holiday time - many for the first time in a few years because of Covid,  and they deserve a warm festive welcome home” stated Town Team Co-ordinator-  Anita Killeen.

Every year there are reoccurring costs involved for the installation, repairs, storage, insurance, and electricity which has been covered by a combination of fundraising (Christmas raffle etc) generous business contributions, grant aid and donations.

This year the required funds (circa €25k) will be raised once again from both business contributions and community donations.  James Burke has been re- appointed Business Coordinator and the community will be able contribute to the Christmas lights by going on-line and donating through a portal opened on www.shopballinasloe.ie

A recent survey of businesses in the town resulted in over 85% of respondents urging the Christmas lights to proceed with the same number also committing to financially backing the.  Some businesses did express some worry with the increase in the cost of living and electricity.  

Therefore, in line with other towns across the county, the running time of the lights each day will be reduced.  Switching them on from 4:00pm until 12:00 pm from November 27th until January 6th, with the times to be reviewed for Christmas Week (19th -25th   December)

The “Christmas Lights Switch On” festivities in the town has not taken place since 2018 (because of the Big Dig & Covid) but plans are in place to have music and entertainment at the top of the town square on Sunday November 27th with special guests invited to light up the town.  More details on line to follow.