Athlone Christmas Lights switch-on a hit despite damp weather

The annual Christmas lights switch-on at Athlone Civic Centre last Sunday was a resounding success, despite the cold, rain, and wind.

Over 1,000 people gathered for the festive event, which ran from 4.30pm to 6pm, organised by Caoimhe O’Connell, Cllr. Frankie Keena, and Cllr. Aengus O’Rourke, with support from Athlone Family Resource Centre and An Post Workers Union.

John Henson, Chairman of the Festival and Events Committee, expressed his delight with the turnout: “We were absolutely delighted with the successful annual ‘switching on’ ceremony of the Christmas Tree at the Athlone Civic Centre last Sunday evening despite the rain, wind, and bitter cold.”

Henson went on to acknowledge the contributions of sponsors and the local community: “Special thanks to our main sponsor Westmeath County Council for its generous support and indeed the West Midlands Credit Union.”

The evening featured performances by the Mary Fox School of Drama and Attitude School of Dancing, while a colorful Christmas Tractor Run, coordinated by Andy Donoghue, brought Santa to the crowd.

The highlight of the night came when the Athlone Town FC Senior Ladies, who’ve had an incredible year, were given the honor of switching on the lights, joined by Mayor Vinny McCormack and Cllr. Paul Hogan.

Henson concluded: “The Christmas lights display was once again spectacular and gives a lift to the mood of shoppers and visitors to our town for the festive season.”

* SEE INSIDE TOMORROW'S PAPER: Photos from the Athlone Lights Switch-On*