Santa set for big night in Laois at Portlaoise Christmas Lights switch on

Portlaoise is set to turn totally Christmassy on General Election polling day when Santa comes to the Laois County Town to turn on the Christmas lights.

The big switch-on will be part of a night of entertainment in the town that's been organised by the Downtown Portlaoise business group with the support of Laois County Council.

The annual festive event which marks the start of the Christmas season in Portlaoise takes place on Friday night, November 29 between 6pm and 8.30pm. Of course the man himself, Santa has once again generously taken time out from his hectic schedule to do the honours on the Lower Square outside Portlaoise Library.

Proceedings get underway with Jack Nolan as MC who'll do the introductions. The entertainment features the Portlaoise Children's Choir and also features the Community Choir.

Santa is due in town soon after Christmas Carols and a speech by the Laois County Council's Cathaoirleach Cllr Padraig Fleming. Santa hopes to switch the lights on at 6.40pm which will be followed by more Christmas Carols.

Before departing, Santa will make his way to the Sleigh where families can take pictures with him on his Sleigh. Rudolf The Red Nose Reindeer and Frosty The Snowman, who will also be there, will be keen to have their picture taken.

Of course Santa doesn't need to rush of to vote in the General Election because he lives in the North Pole.

Downtown Portlaoise wishes to thank everyone who has made the Christmas Lights possible again this year. MORE BELOW PICTURE.

Malachy McNulty and Robert Bowe with Santa at the switch-on in 2023.

"We could not complete this project without the great support from all in Laois County Council to mention a few such as Simon Walton, Wes Wilkinson , Roy Glynn and Michael Buckley.  Their continued support is greatly appreciated and without them, none of this would be possible," they said.

They thank Danny McNulty electrician and his team for the big job of erecting and taking down the lights. Also thanked is Alice McCabe, who's described as a very valued member of the Downtown Portlaoise Committee, as "tireless secretary who leaves no stone unturned" while including all members in everything the Committee does.

Town man Mark Martley was also thanked for supporting and helping in every way he can.

Christy Bannon was also thanked for his contribution.

"We are lucky to have him in our town. Nothing to compare with around the country," said the business group.

The Committee also thanked Downtown Portlaoise member and long-standing business man, Jack Nolan, who was MC on the evening.

Downtown also thanked the Children's Choir under Sarah Troy for making the night "so special".

The Children's Choir will be followed this year by Laois Community Choir.

"They are a brilliant choir who will add great razmataz to the event,". said the business group.

Downtown summed up the event.

"Altogether the evening is the sum total of all that is good in Portlaoise and shows how a good community spirit can always ‘get the job done’.

There will be a street closure in operation on Friday from 4 pm. Businesses are also asked to remind their customers and staff about the road closure to ensure no one gets boxed in.