Carlow County Council wishes to advise residents, visitors, businesses, and road users of the following important notices regarding the opening events for Féile Lonrach – Festival of Glow 2025, taking place on Saturday, 29th November 2025. This year’s festival marks the beginning of Carlow’s seasonal celebrations, bringing family entertainment, music, festive lights, and community spirit to the town centre. Your cooperation is appreciated to ensure a safe, enjoyable, and well-managed event for all.
Temporary Road Closures – Carlow Lightfest 2025
To facilitate the safe delivery of Carlow Lightfest 2025, several temporary road closures and restricted access points will be in effect.
Date & Time of Closures:
Saturday, 29th November 2025, for the duration of the event and associated set-up and take-down activities.
Affected Roads:
- Cox’s Lane
- Centaur Street
- Hay Market
- Church Street
- The Barrow Track
In addition, Carlow Town Hall Car Park will be closed to the public for the full day on Saturday, 29th November 2025 to accommodate event preparations.
Local access will be maintained where safe and possible, but delays should be expected. Traffic diversions will be clearly signposted, and motorists are advised to plan journeys in advance, allow additional travel time, and follow the instructions of event stewards and Gardaí.
These road closures are implemented under Section 75 of the Roads Act 1993 and S.I. No. 119/1994 Roads Regulations 1994.
Carlow County Council regrets any inconvenience caused and thanks all road users for their understanding and cooperation.
Event Programme – Saturday 29th November 2025
Santa’s County Tour – The Santa Bus
As part of the festival’s opening celebrations, Santa Claus will embark on a short tour of County Carlow before arriving for the evening festivities. Families are encouraged to come along to welcome Santa as he visits local towns.
- 12:30 p.m. – Santa Bus arrives in Tullow
- 3:00 p.m. – Santa Bus arrives in Bagenalstown
These visits are short stops to greet children, wave hello, and add a sprinkle of Christmas cheer ahead of Santa’s arrival at Lightfest.
LIGHTFEST – Town Hall Car Park
Lightfest is the highlight of the opening evening and will take place in Carlow Town Hall Car Park, which will be transformed into a festive zone filled with family fun, live entertainment, and Christmas surprises.
Ticketing & Entry
- Entry to Lightfest is by ticket only, available exclusively through Eventbrite.
- Attendees are advised to arrive early, as security checks and ticket scanning may result in short queues.
- Event entry is via the Barrow Track at the Carlow Rowing Club.
Lightfest Programme
- 3:30 p.m. – Gates Open: Funfair rides, vendor stalls & face painting
- 3:40 p.m. – DJ Matt’s Festive Mix (live entertainment begins)
- 4:00 p.m. – Music Act: MARYANN & Band
- 4:40 p.m. – ABBAesque Live Performance
- 6:00 p.m. – DJ Matt hosts Countdown to Santa’s Arrival & Fireworks
- 6:10 p.m. – Santa Arrives, Fireworks Display & Christmas Lights Switch-On
- 6:30 p.m. – Event Concludes
Attendees are reminded that this is an outdoor event. Suitable footwear and warm clothing are recommended.
Fireworks Display – Important Advisory
A colourful fireworks display will take place between 6:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. as part of Santa’s arrival.
Carlow County Council wishes to highlight the following:
- Pet owners may wish to take precautions to safeguard animals sensitive to loud noises.
- Individuals with sensory sensitivities or noise-related concerns should be aware that loud bangs and flashing lights will occur during this period.
- All fireworks used during the event are provided under full licence and managed by professional, certified operators.
Please note that designated safety zones will be in place, and the public must remain behind barriers at all times.
On-Site Activities & Facilities
Face Painting
A number of professional face painters will be available from 3:30 p.m.
Families wishing to avail of this free service are encouraged to arrive early, as demand is expected to be high.
Funfair Rides
A selection of funfair rides for younger children will operate throughout the event.
All funfair activities are free of charge and suitable for a range of ages.
Food & Product Vendors
There will be 12 food and product vendors offering a mix of festive treats, hot food, seasonal goods, and gift items.
Please note that vendor products and food items are chargeable.
Toilet Facilities
A full suite of toilet facilities, including accessible and disabled-friendly units, will be available on-site for public use throughout the event.
Photography, Filming & Media Notice
Carlow County Council has commissioned MCO & Content Plan to produce official video footage, photography, and social media content during the event. In addition:
- An official event photographer will be present within the public event areas.
- Photography is strictly prohibited in non-public, restricted, or behind-the-scenes areas.
- Parents and guardians should be aware that crowd shots may be captured for promotional purposes.
- A formal media release, including selected event images, will be published following the festival.
Signage at entrances will notify attendees that photography and videography are taking place.
Additional Public Guidance
- Accessibility: Event layouts have been designed with accessibility in mind; however, due to expected crowds, those requiring assistance are encouraged to arrive early.
- Weather: In case of adverse weather, event schedules may be adjusted for safety reasons. Updates will be issued via Carlow County Council’s official channels.
- Safety & Stewarding: Professional stewards and emergency personnel will be on hand throughout the event. Please follow their guidance at all times.
- Litter & Waste: Attendees are encouraged to use designated bins and help keep Carlow clean during the festival.
Carlow County Council is delighted to welcome residents and visitors to the opening of Féile Lonrach – Festival of Glow 2025, celebrating community, creativity, and the festive season. We thank the public in advance for their cooperation with road closures, event arrangements, and safety measures, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable experience for all.