Traditional Westport Christmas Market

Wednesday, 24 November 2010 16:10

The sounds, sights and smells of Christmas will fill the Westport air again this December with one of the biggest and most authentic traditional Christmas markets in the country taking place in the town from December 10 to 12. Westport Mall is going to be transformed into a traditional Christmas wonderland for the three days of the Westport Shop 'n' Spraoi na Nollag, with locals and visitors getting a unique opportunity to purchase handmade, authentic and unique Christmas gifts for the entire family.
Launching the Westport Shop 'n' Spraoi na Nollag Christmas market this week, Cathaoirleach of Westport Town Council Councillor Tereasa McGuire stated she fully supported the idea and initiative.
She said: "The Christmas market was a phenomenal success for the town last year and it is going to be even bigger and better this year.
"The Westport Shop 'n' Spraoi na Nollag showcases all that is good about community endeavour and it is about supporting locally produced food and crafts."
The president of Westport Chamber of Commerce, Maurice Mellotte, was also on hand at the launch.
He commented: "We are building on the success of last year and we hope that people from all over the country come to Westport to sample the unique atmosphere that will be in the town over the three days.
"Businesses in Westport need support this year more than ever before and we will be encouraging everyone to shop local this Christmas."
Planning and preparation for the Westport Shop 'n' Spraoi na Nollag has taken over five months with over 100 artisan food and craft producers already registered to exhibit and sell their produce at the market.
"This event is all about supporting quality local produce and investing in our own town and community. We want people to come to Westport for the markets and in turn support all the businesses in the town," commented Tom Treacy, chairperson of the organising committee.
A huge variety of artisan craft and food produce will be on sale and on display over the market weekend with hand crafted pottery, elegant jewellery, tempting local jams and confectionary, amazing flowers, savory home baking, handmade Christmas cards, unusual craft gifts, mulled wine, wood carvings, charming paintings, intricate glassware, organic cheeses, hand crocheted blankets and if that isn't enough there will be gourmet sausages, organic pasta dishes and sea vegetables on offer.
Mr. Treacy added: "It is going to be a spectacular weekend for the entire community. The Westport Shop 'n' Spraoi na Nollag will be something special and unique again this year and we hope that everyone comes along and supports the event.
Organisers of the Westport Shop 'n' Spraoi na Nollag promise a carnival atmosphere on the north Mall during the Christmas market with street performances, exhibitions, carol singing, demonstrations, family events, Santa's grotto, live nativity crib, parades, light shows and lots of free giveaways on offer all weekend.