Countdown is on for Abbeyleix's biggest ever Christmas lights and market

There's a palpable buzz around Abbeyleix ahead of the Christmas Lights & Market this weekend which is set to be bigger and better than ever before.

Market Square will transform on Sunday, 6 December from 2pm to 7pm as Santa Claus will arrive to light up the town for Christmas. Not only this, but there will be street performers, music, food and drink, as well as 32 market stalls for people to enjoy. 

This year's event has been revitalised with an abundance of festive features on offer. Speaking to the Leinster Express / Laois Live, the Abbeyleix Christmas Lights & Market committee member, Saundra Shier, told us that this year's event is taking "a brand new approach."

Saundra said: "Our lights were very old, we got them originally from The Lions Club over 20 years ago. So we have revamped the whole town this year - new committee, new start, new everything."

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The lamp posts on the street will also be lit up for the first time and the lighting on the street has been completely rearranged.

However, there's more than just the new lighting to be seen on Sunday. With 32 market stalls, from jewellery, crocheting, knitting, and lots of food and drink, there's something for everyone at the event.

Saundra also revealed that the streets will be alive with stilt walkers, fire eaters, cartoon characters and even Jeca the Clown. To set the atmosphere, there'll be music right through from 2pm to 7pm including a ukulele choir.

The star of the show, Santa Claus, will arrive onboard the fire engine at 2.30pm and turn on the lights at 5pm. Saundra promised it will be a "magical arrival" and families are encouraged to come out and meet Santa.

It will cost just €2 for a child to meet Santa and receive a present.

Speaking about the event, Saundra said: "I'm very mindful of giving back because people have been very, very good to us. Businesses have donated and families too." She emphasised that families have been particularly generous to their fundraising, helping out in many different ways. 

The committee member said that lots of fundraising has been done and money set aside for this year's event which is hoped to create a wonderful atmosphere in Abbeyleix for families this Christmas.

Looking towards the future for the festivities in Abbeyleix, Saundra said if this year's event is a success "we're hoping it'll be even bigger and better next year and become something to put in people's diaries."

This one not to be missed!