Cork Airport Welcomes Festive Season with Christmas Lights Ceremony

Cork Airport officially welcomed the festive season on December 5, 2023, as the Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr. Fergal Dennehy, and Lady Mayoress, Karen Brennan, switched on the Christmas lights in the arrivals hall. This annual ceremony marks the beginning of a bustling month, with an expected over 217,000 passengers traveling to and from the airport during December.

The airport is poised to conclude the year with a record-breaking total of 3.4 million passengers, making it the busiest year in its history. The peak travel period is anticipated to occur between December 18 and 22, coinciding with the festive celebrations.

Festive entertainment was provided by the pupils of Scoil an Spioraid Naoimh from Bishopstown during the lighting ceremony. They are the first of more than 1,200 performers scheduled to take part in a series of events at the airport. From now until December 23, primary and secondary school children, local orchestras, traditional music groups, and community choirs will perform at a specially designated Christmas stage located on the ground floor of the terminal.

In preparation for the holiday season, the airport’s asset care team has meticulously installed Christmas decorations throughout the terminal to enhance the atmosphere for arriving and departing passengers. Cork Airport will also participate in the city’s “Corkmas” festivities, offering giveaways to passengers arriving between December 19 and 22 in collaboration with Cork’s RedFM.

During the event, Cllr. Fergal Dennehy expressed his joy at the festive spirit: “Christmas at Cork Airport is such a special time. As families reunite with loved ones ahead of the festive season, it was an honour to switch on the Christmas lights at the airport today.” He also highlighted the collaboration between Cork City Council and the airport as a means to create a welcoming environment for travelers returning home.

Niall MacCarthy, Managing Director at Cork Airport, shared his enthusiasm for the holiday period, stating, “Christmas is really our favourite time of the year where we get a chance to interact more personally with our passengers, as they travel in and out for the festive season. The warmth and joy of the choirs make Cork Airport a really special place to travel through and work in at this time of year.”

As travel increases, passengers are encouraged to arrive at Cork Airport at least 90 minutes before their scheduled departure time. This allows for a smooth experience, particularly for those checking in bags. For tips on preparing for security screening, travelers can refer to the airport’s website, corkairport.com. Additionally, passengers carrying gifts are advised not to wrap them, as they may need to be inspected by security personnel. It is also important to note that Christmas crackers are prohibited onboard aircraft.

With festive lights illuminating the airport and a schedule full of performances, Cork Airport is set to embrace the holiday spirit, ensuring a memorable experience for all travelers this December.