WHAT'S ON: Lightfest makes a return this weekend in County Carlow for the second weekend

Carlow County Council and St. Patrick's GAA Tullow are thrilled to announce that Lightfest, the most magical event of the holiday season, is happening this weekend at Brother Leo Park, Tullow, Co. Carlow. A celebration of Christmas spirit, community, and joy, Lightfest promises a memorable experience for all ages.

From 3:00 p.m, the festivities will kick off with local Christmas markets and food vendors offering seasonal treats and unique gifts. Families can enjoy face painting and visit Santa’s Grotto between 3:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m., making it a perfect opportunity to capture the magic of the season (please note that a small charge applies for visits to Santa).

Read Next: Popular Coffee Shop in Carlow moves into former pub premises in Carlow Town

As evening draws closer, at 6:00pm the excitement will culminate in a spectacular professional fireworks display, lighting up the night sky in a dazzling showcase of festive cheer. It’s a finale not to be missed, so bring your loved ones and share in the wonder of this community event.

Councillor Brian O'Donoghue, Cathaoirleach of Tullow Municipal District emphasised the importance of events like Lightfest in bringing people together:

"I am delighted to work alongside St. Patrick's GAA Tullow to bring Lightfest to the community this weekend. This event highlights the incredible community spirit that thrives within the Tullow Municipal District, which is a cornerstone of what makes this area so special. Lightfest is about more than just celebrating the season—it’s about creating a space where people of all ages can come together, connect, and share in the joy of the holidays. It’s a testament to what we can achieve when we work together, and I am proud to see the collaboration between the Council, local organisations, and volunteers to make this happen."

Kieran Comerford, Head of Economic Development & Enterprise, added:"Lightfest is just one of a series of events designed to support our communities and foster economic activity across the county. We encourage everyone to join in, enjoy the festivities, and remember to #ShopLocalShopCarlow this festive season. By supporting local businesses, you’re helping to sustain jobs and strengthen our economy while keeping the Christmas spirit alive."

Important Public Safety Information:

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees, public safety is a top priority:

Shuttle Service: A special shuttle will run from the top of Supervalu car park for guests with mobility needs.
Parking: There will be no parking available at Brother Leo Park. Visitors are asked to park in town and enjoy a pleasant stroll to the venue.
Traffic Management: Locals are kindly encouraged to walk to Ballymurphy Road with their families to minimize congestion.
Pet Safety: Fireworks can be distressing for pets. We strongly advise pet owners to keep their pets safely indoors during the fireworks display and to ensure windows and doors are closed to help reduce noise and anxiety. Creating a comfortable space for your pets during this time is recommended to keep them calm.

Carlow County Council and St. Patrick’s GAA Tullow urge everyone to cooperate with event stewards, follow traffic guidelines, and take steps to keep pets safe and secure for a smooth and enjoyable event.

Don’t miss the magic—join us this weekend for Lightfest and create lasting memories with your loved ones in the heart of Tullow!

Tickets still available on Eventbrite.