Get ready for an electrifying and unforgettable weekend as Carlow County Council, backed by local businesses and stakeholders, proudly announces the grand finale of the Tullow Street Streetfest Programme! This vibrant event promises a dazzling array of activities and entertainment for all ages, making it the perfect outing for families, friends, and neighbours alike. As a pilot project for the pedestrianisation of Lower Tullow Street, Streetfest has been enhancing the shopping experience and creating an extraordinary atmosphere since April 5, 2024. This weekend marks the sixth and final celebration of this initial pilot period.
The festivities kick off on Friday with the KCLR Daily Show, featuring Brian Redmond broadcasting live from Lower Tullow Street, showcasing local guests and setting the stage for an incredible weekend. Attendees can delight in the quirky antics and tricks of Wobbly Circus, including captivating stilt walker performances at 11 am and 3 pm. The Tullow Street Craft Village will be a treasure trove of artisanal products, offering beautiful jewellery, hampers, and a variety of unique gift ideas. Adding to the excitement, a busking competition will spotlight local talents competing for a top prize, filling Lower Tullow Street with music and lively entertainment.
The excitement continues Saturday as KCLR broadcasts live from Tullow Street in the afternoon, providing updates and engaging coverage from around the county. Beloved characters such as Coco Melon, Captain America, Dora the Explorer, and Chase from Paw Patrol will be roaming Tullow Street from 11 am to 1 pm and 2 pm to 4 pm, posing for photos and spreading joy among young fans. Joining Wobbly Circus this week is the amazing Steve Stumbles, who will be dazzling audiences with a range of magic and juggling tricks starting at 11 am, with spectacular street shows at 2 pm and 3 pm. Children will be enchanted by facepainting and balloon modelling by facepainting.ie, transforming them into their favourite characters or animals. The Tullow Street Craft Village will again offer a delightful selection of unique treasures and last-minute gifts.
Streetfest is running in tandem this weekend with Carlow Arts Festival who will be visiting the Street on Saturday with the Carnival of Collective Joy. Now in its third year, the Carnival of Collective Joy returns to the streets of Carlow with more wild and wonderful creatures in a celebration of the imagination of school children across County Carlow.
With guidance from artists Selene Murphy, Molly O’Brien and Fadi Zmorrod, school pupils from St Fiacc’s N.S, Graiguecullen, St Patrick’s N.S, Rathvilly and Scoil Mhuire Lourdes N.S, Tullow, imagined their own unique worlds and the characters that inhabit them. Transition Year Students from Coláiste Eoin, Hacketstown helped to bring them to life.
The carnival will parade through Carlow Town from 1.30pm. Starting at Carlow College St. Patrick's, the parade will go down Dublin Street, up Tullow Street, and then along College Street, finishing back at the Children’s Tent at the Carlow College Grounds.
Linda Culleton, Economic Development Officer with Carlow County Council said “Join us this weekend for an unforgettable family fun and retail experience! From exciting activities for the kids to unbeatable shopping deals, there's something for everyone to enjoy”. Linda concluded by saying “This weekend is another opportunity to Shop Local and every purchase makes a difference. Shopping local isn't just about convenience; it's about investing in our community.”.
For more information contact Linda Culleton 087-3449432 or lculleton@carlowcoco.ie