A ‘Delicious’ start to Christmas as north Mayo town lights up

BALLINA is preparing to shine brighter than ever as the town officially kicks off its Christmas celebrations this Sunday, November 23, at the Jackie Clarke Collection.

This year’s event promises to be a particularly heart-warming occasion. Following the festivities at the Jackie Clarke Collection, Santa Claus will be joined by a very 'delicious' special guest to help officially switch on the town’s Christmas lights.

Families, residents and visitors can look forward to a welcoming and vibrant afternoon filled with festive atmosphere, live entertainment and community spirit. Long regarded as one of Ballina’s cultural gems, the Jackie Clarke Collection will once again play a central role in the festivities with a special Countdown to Christmas programme. In partnership with the Ballina Costume Company, Mayo Artsquad Community Arts, Moyne College art students and Ballina Crafters, the JCC gardens and courtyard will transform into a festive hub featuring:

* Meet & Greet with Mrs. Claus – including a sensory-friendly hour in partnership with Ballina Autism Friendly Town

* Cosy Mini-Mistletoe Market offering a small selection of local crafts and seasonal treats to set the tone for the celebrations.

* Ballina Town Christmas Treasure Hunt (collect your map at 2 p.m., answers due back by 4 p.m.)

* Live music from Pat’s Country Roadshow

* Buddy the Elf greeting families in the courtyard

* The unveiling of The Sleeping Winter Garden

* The debut of Ballina’s first-ever 9ft 'Knitmas Tree', created entirely from recycled wool by the Ballina Crafters

* The celebrations will then follow Santa’s trail from Pearse Street to Garden Street ahead of the official switch-on at 5 p.m.

SWITCH-ON WITH SANTA AND GARRON NOONE

Nothing says Christmas like the twinkle of festive lights! On Sunday, enjoy live performances and soak up the seasonal cheer with family and friends at Ballina Market Square before the switching on of Ballina’s Christmas lights.

The Let There Be Light committee are calling on everyone to come out and support the event.

“The people of Ballina have truly embraced the message behind our Christmas lights this year,” said committee member David Murray. “We’d love to see a big crowd gather for what promises to be a special afternoon for the town.

“This is very much an all-weather event - so come prepared, wrap up warmly and join us as we celebrate the start of the festive season together.”

COMMUNITY COLLABORATION AND SUPPORTING LOCAL

Mayo North Tourism has warmly welcomed the collaborative effort behind this year’s Christmas programme, praising the dedication and togetherness shown by the local community, volunteers and organisers.

Speaking ahead of the event, Mairéad Melody Carr, manager of Mayo North Tourism, said: “We are so proud of the local groups, volunteers and committees who have worked tirelessly to make this celebration possible. Ballina is at its best when the community comes together, and events like this lift the spirit of the town.

“Shopping local and supporting local businesses is more important than ever; not only does it keep money circulating in our local economy, but it strengthens our retailers, restaurants, cafés, bars and service providers who are the backbone of our community. This festive season is an opportunity to show our support and enjoy everything our town has to offer.”

FESTIVE MARKETS

As the season gets underway, a number of festive markets around the Ballina area will add even more magic in the weeks ahead.

* The Lantern Chinese will also host its own Christmas Markets alongside festive dining, offering unique Irish and Asian gifts, artisan snacks and seasonal treats.

* The Fr. Peyton Centre will present its popular Jingle and Mingle Christmas Market, featuring crafts, family activities and local products.

* Bonniconlon ICA will host its first-ever Charity Christmas Craft Fair in the Grove Hall (in aid of St. Dympna's School), showcasing the work of local makers, producers and community groups.

These markets, along with many others across north Mayo, bring a joyful sense of community while providing crucial support for small businesses during the busiest retail season of the year.

BALLINA CHRISTMAS MARKET

The celebrations don’t stop here. Sunday marks only the beginning of Ballina’s festivities with the main Ballina Christmas Market taking centre stage from December 12 to 14, when over 30 local and regional stallholders bring artisan crafts, handmade gifts, locally-produced food and drink, festive treats and seasonal produce to the town.

This year’s market promises to be one of the most engaging yet, offering something special for all ages.

GROWING CALENDAR OF EVENTS

These celebrations form part of a wide-ranging calendar of festive activities taking place across Ballina and north Mayo throughout December, including concerts, charity fundraisers, workshops, school performances, family attractions and seasonal menus from local cafés, restaurants and bars. This growing programme reflects the strong spirit of cooperation among community groups, businesses and volunteers, enriching the festive season while boosting the local economy.

With its mix of community involvement, festive entertainment, creativity and local pride, Ballina’s Christmas celebrations in 2025 promise to offer something truly memorable. As the lights switch on and the town begins to sparkle, the people of Ballina, near and far, can look forward to a warm, uplifting and community-driven Christmas filled with connection, tradition and joy.