Carlow was filled with magic, music, and Christmas cheer this weekend as Santa Claus made a special appearance to formally launch Féile Lonrach – Festival of Glow 2025. Families from every corner of Carlow came together to witness the beginning of a season dedicated to light, togetherness, and the spirit of community.
The festivities began in Carlow Library, where the excitement was palpable. Children eagerly lined up to step inside the beautifully decorated Santa Room, a cosy festive space alive with colour and imagination. Inside, young visitors wrote heartfelt letters to Santa, coloured festive scenes, and shared their hopes and dreams for the holiday season. This warm and intimate gathering provided a perfect opening to a day that would grow into one of the most memorable festive celebrations in recent years.
Speaking about the day’s events, Cllr. Ken Murnane, Cathaoirleach of Carlow County Council, reflected on what the festival means to the people of Carlow and the values it celebrates: “Today was a celebration of what makes County Carlow so special families coming together, children experiencing the magic of Christmas, and communities standing side by side. The joy on the faces of young people at the Library, in our towns and villages, and here at Lightfest reminds us that Christmas is truly about connection, kindness, and shared experiences. It is during moments like this that we see the real heart of Carlow.”
After meeting with families at the Library, Santa boarded his iconic big red bus, embarking on a festive tour across the county. Residents gathered along roadsides, in village centres, and outside local businesses to greet Santa as he passed by, creating a joyful atmosphere that rippled from community to community. This countywide tour, symbolising the unity and shared celebration that connect Carlow’s towns and villages at this special time of year.
Later in the afternoon, Santa returned to Carlow Town for Lightfest, the flagship event of Féile Lonrach. More than 4,000 people gathered at Carlow Town Hall as the gates opened at 3:30 p.m., greeted by the lively atmosphere of funfair rides, artisan vendor stalls, children’s activities, and festive face painting. Families enjoyed a wide range of entertainment as the build-up to the evening finale began.
DJ Matt launched the live entertainment with a festive music set, creating an energised and cheerful backdrop for the growing crowds. He was followed by soulful performances from Maryann & Band, and later, the hugely popular ABBAesque, whose vibrant show had the audience singing and dancing along. As dusk fell, anticipation grew, and DJ Matt led the official countdown to Santa’s grand arrival with support from An Garda and the much-awaited fireworks display.
At 6:10 p.m., Santa stepped onto the stage to a chorus of cheers as fireworks lit up the night sky in bursts of colour and light. Moments later, the town erupted with festive delight as the Christmas lights were officially switched on, illuminating streets, buildings, and the many smiling faces gathered below.
The event was attended by a number of distinguished guests and among those present were Cllr. Ken Murnane, Cathaoirleach of Carlow County Council; Cllr. Daniel Pender, Cathaoirleach of Bagenalstown Municipal District; Cllr. John Pender, Cathaoirleach of Tullow Municipal District; Norah Ryan, President of County Carlow Chamber; Deputy Catherine Callaghan; Minister Murnane O’Connor; and Cllr. Paul Doogue, Mayor of Carlow Municipal District.
Speaking about the event, Mayor Cllr. Paul Doogue emphasised the importance of supporting Carlow’s vibrant local economy and acknowledged the collective effort behind the festival’s success: “Lightfest is a fantastic reminder of the strength of our local community and the value of shopping local. When we shop in Carlow, we support the businesses, jobs, and families that make our county thrive. I want to sincerely thank all the event organisers, volunteers, performers, and Council staff who worked tirelessly to bring this incredible celebration to life. I also encourage everyone to check out the wonderful line-up of festive events the Council has planned in the coming weeks we look forward to welcoming everyone back into town again and again throughout the season.”
Féile Lonrach – Festival of Glow 2025 now rolls onto its next activities in Carlow Library , Sensory Sunday , The Santa Bus in Bagenalstown in Tullow and Bagenalstown and Carlow’s first Comedy Festival.
Speaking about the series of events, Coilín O’Reilly, Chief Executive of Carlow County Council, said: “For 2025, we have invested in an enhanced experience for the County through Féile Lonrach – Festival of Glow 2025, while also delivering new lighting for our County Town to further elevate the festive atmosphere.”Coilín continued to say “We would like to thank all our partners in these events, including An Garda Síochána, Order for Malta , Civil Defence, County Carlow Chamber, Carlow Tourism, VISUAL, and the many local enterprises who support and contribute to the success of our festive programme each year.”Coilín concluded by saying “At the backbone of all this activity is our commitment to creating a strong sense of community, an environment where families and visitors can enjoy memorable experiences, support local businesses, and embrace the spirit of shopping local and shopping Carlow in our towns and villages. Together, we are building a brighter, more vibrant Carlow for everyone this Christmas and beyond.”
