Carlow celebrates the festive season with Christmas Food, Drink and Craft Fair

Carlow County Council’s Local Enterprise Office's Christmas Food, Drink and Craft Fair will take place on Wednesday, 6th December 2023 from 2.30pm until 8pm at The Exchange, Potato Market, Carlow.

The best of local Carlow businesses will be showcased at the event, including;Prism Jewellery, Under the Oak Tree Designs, MC Melties, Corina Fitzgibbon Art, Souvenir and Gift Shop Ducketts Grove, Murphy’s Craft Butchers, Frank Morris, Lá Nua Community Employment Scheme, Valg Studio, Fairy Charms Resin Jewellery, Creative spark, Enchanted Castle Melts, Mairead Hackett, Maija Leilande, Barbara Kinsella, Knockdrumagh Engineering, Sarah Moloney Art, Maksis and Liene Art, Local Enterprise Office, and Scats.

Mayor of Carlow, Cllr. Tom O’Neill says, "Hosting a Christmas Fair in our town brings a multitude of benefits that extend far beyond the festive season. It serves as a vibrant economic catalyst, offering local businesses a platform to showcase their products and services, fostering community support and bolstering the town's economic ecosystem."

Cllr. O’Neill concluded saying, "The fair creates a joyful atmosphere, encouraging residents to engage in communal activities and share in the spirit of the holidays, ultimately strengthening community bonds. Additionally, a Christmas Fair attracts visitors, injecting vitality into the local economy and showcasing the town's welcoming character. Ultimately, the benefits of hosting such an event extend far beyond the seasonal festivities, leaving a lasting positive impact on the town's economic, social, and cultural landscape."

In its second year, visitors can expect a unique experience as the fair showcases the best talents and offerings, in addition to the delicious treats, festive crafts, face painting and balloon modelling for the kids.

Melissa Doyle, Business Advisor with Carlow County Council’s Local Enterprise Office, says "This festive event will bring together local businesses, artisans, and community members to celebrate the festive season. The fair will feature a delightful array of food, drink and crafts, showcasing the talents of our local entrepreneurs and artists. It will provide a unique platform for small businesses to showcase their products and services, contributing to the local economy. The fair will foster a sense of community unity as people come together to enjoy the festivities, shop for unique gifts, and savour seasonal treats."