Annual St Kieran's Christmas dinner will not go ahead

By Rebekah O'Reilly

The annual St Kieran's Christmas dinner will not go ahead in 2026.

Organiser Lisa Malone made a statement this week announcing that she will not be able to proceed with the charity dinner this year, due to private family matters.

"Given the amount of time that is required in organising it and the lead up to it, it's not viable this year. My family's needs must come first," Lisa wrote.

Lisa extended her thanks to the volunteers who gave their time to helping out at the dinner on Christmas Day over the last three years.

Those involved included the staff of St Kieran’s Community Centre, and volunteers Michelle Mullin, Geraldine Hudson, Anna O’Kane, Emily Clarke, Deirdre Joyce, and Aisling O'Kane.

"It meant so much to be able to help others if only in a small way. To the great team that helped out every year thank you, it couldn't have happened without you all."

Local businesses showed their support for the event, which provides hot meals for homeless and those living alone.

The Creggan Court Hotel has supplied the dinner for three years, while Magico Bakery provided treats at last years dinner.