Enniskillen: Let the Festive Season Commence!

Enniskillen came alive on Saturday 23 November as large crowds gathered for Fermanagh and Omagh District Council’s Christmas lights switch on. Young and old braved the cold weather to celebrate the light switch on, marking the beginning of the festive season for traders and the community alike.

Visitors to Enniskillen Castle enjoyed ‘Lunchtime Carols’ by Harmonise Choir and St Mary’s and Ballyreagh Siver Band welcomed shoppers in the town as they played a selection of Christmas songs. At the diamond, Aiden Scott Browne entertained the crowd whilst children enjoyed facepainting and meeting festive characters.

On stage, Buddy the Elf, Santa’s lively helper and compere, introduced local group ‘Just Us’ to the stage to perform their favourite Christmas songs. A heartfelt Christmas blessing was offered by Fermanagh Churches Forum, setting the tone for the season.
Buddy the Elf then guided the audience on an enchanting journey around the world, showcasing Christmas traditions from various countries with special guest characters Rapunzel from Germany, Belle from France, and Anna & Elsa from Norway, sharing songs and customs from their homelands leading to the much anticipated arrival of Santa!

Santa Claus made his way through the skies over Cuilcagh’s Stairway to Heaven, Lough Erne and Enniskillen Castle to finally touch down on the Island Town to meet excited families. He then joined the crowd to count down to the magical Christmas light switch on, followed by singing and dancing under the sparkling lights with Destiny’s Elf Girl Band.

Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor John McClaughry, shared his thoughts ahead of the switch-on saying:

“The Christmas lights switch on in Enniskillen and Omagh heralds the start of the festive season in both towns, bringing joy and family-friendly fun to our communities. I’m especially pleased to see Enniskillen’s ‘Just Us’ taking part this year, making the event even more special.

I encourage everyone to shop local this festive season. Supporting our local businesses helps to ensure a thriving and prosperous local economy”.

The festive atmosphere continues in the lead up to Christmas with the Seasonal Outdoor Music programme featuring live performances by local artists and bands every Saturday afternoon at the Diamond, Enniskillen from 30 November and continuing on 7, 14, and 21 December.

Explore the full Christmas Programme, including sensory-friendly events in the Events & Festivals section of the Council website at www.fermanaghomagh.com.