Last Friday saw the opening of the first Raphoe Christmas Village.
The official switching-on of the lights performed by Isabell Mc Cormack (one of Raphoe’s most esteemed and senior citizens), accompanied by Martin Laird who was the Supervisor of Raphoe Tidy Towns and who is retiring after 32 years).
This was followed by the arrival of Santa led by the Raphoe Ulster Scots Pipe Band.
The large crowd was treated to entertainment by the Finn Valley Men’s Choir, Christy Murray and his band of Merry Tin Whistlers, Ellie Carson and Sarah Jane Murray.
Complimentary refreshments on the night consisted of mulled wine, mince pies and shortbread from Raphoe Community In Action clg (RCIA clg), hot soup and treats from Harkins Gala Raphoe and well as hot chocolate with more treats from the Family Resource centre and kindly served by some our new community members.
Friday also saw the opening of the wonderful Christmas Tree Festival in St Eunan’s Cathedral, the start of the Santa Express Oakfield Park and the unveiling of the cribs (largest privately owned collection in Donegal) in St Eunan’s Chapel Raphoe.
Saturday and Sunday saw two more days of YuleTide festivities with an amazing Christmas Market featuring local businesses, home baking, Christmas wreaths, arts & crafts and much more.
This was all to the wonderful backdrop of music from Aoife & Eugene Mc Ginley, Johnny Haughey, Aisling & Christy Murray, this time with his traditional Thursday night group from the Diamond Bar.
Christmas has certainly got off to a sparkling start in Raphoe.
This event was partly funded by Donegal County Council.
