Kilkenny’s Christmas Fairs Launch This Weekend with Santa Visits!

UPDATE: Kilkenny is set to kick off its festive season with a series of **exciting Christmas fairs** starting this weekend! Communities across the county are teaming up to support local artisans and food producers while welcoming a special visitor from the North Pole.

The **Winter Fayre** at Kilkenny School Project NS will transform into a vibrant festival space on **Sunday, December 7, from 12pm to 2pm**. Parents and school staff are gearing up to create a fun-filled atmosphere, eagerly anticipated by children and families alike. This event is not only about joy and festivities; it also plays a crucial role as a **significant fundraiser** for the school, with proceeds directly benefiting educational initiatives.

Expect a delightful array of activities including **traditional crafts**, **handmade gifts**, and **family games**. Special attractions include **cookie decorating**, a **wheel of fortune**, and a **disco**. And yes, **Santa** is expected to make an appearance, adding to the magic of the day!

Beyond Kilkenny City, several towns will host their own festive events. The **Yulefest Christmas Market** on The Parade kicks off **Saturday, November 29**. Visitors can enjoy charming wooden huts filled with seasonal treats and locally made gifts every weekend leading up to Christmas.

In **Callan**, the **Advent Fair** will be held on **Saturday, December 6, from 12pm to 4pm**, featuring **handmade crafts**, **candle dipping**, and a **puppet theatre** that promises to enchant children and adults alike.

Meanwhile, the **L’Arche Kilkenny Christmas Fair** is scheduled for **Sunday, November 30**, at **L’Arche, Green Lane**. Attendees can enjoy Christmas carols, baked goods, and a visit from Santa. Remember, it’s cash only!

The excitement continues with the **Visit Callan Annual Christmas Market** on **Sunday, December 14** at **11:30am**, and **Fennelly’s Christmas Market** on **Saturday, December 13**, featuring local crafts and a traditional music session.

In **Thomastown**, the **Christmas Market** at the Scout Den takes place on **Sunday, November 30, from 12pm to 5pm**, culminating with the **Parade of Light** at **5pm**. Families will gather as Santa arrives at the Thomastown Community Centre.

**Graignamanagh** will host a festive market this weekend, featuring almost **30 stalls** with local crafts and bakes from **10am to 5pm** each day.

Don’t miss the **Windgap Christmas Craft Fair** on **Saturday, December 6, from 10am to 3pm**, showcasing locally made arts and crafts.

The **Ballyragget Yulefest** annual market and the community lighting ceremony will also take place on **Saturday, December 6**, starting at **2pm**, with Santa arriving at **3:30pm** to delight the children.

In **Clogh**, the community invites everyone to the **Christmas tree lighting** on **Friday, November 28, at 7pm**, featuring festive drinks and a visit from Santa.

If you’re in **Paulstown**, the Christmas festival is on **Sunday, December 7, from 1pm to 5pm**.

Residents of **Gathabawn** will welcome Santa as he lights up the village on **November 30**.

Lastly, the **Castlecomer Festival of Light** and the **Stoneyford Christmas Craft and Food Fair** will both take place on **Sunday, November 30**, from **12:30pm to 4:30pm**, showcasing local enterprises and festive cheer.

These events are more than just markets; they are a celebration of community spirit and local craftsmanship. Make sure to mark your calendars and join in the holiday festivities across Kilkenny this season!

Tickets for various events can be purchased online, such as at **www.kilkenny-school-project-pta.sumupstore.com** for the Winter Fayre raffle.

Don’t miss out on the chance to support local artisans while creating unforgettable memories with family and friends this Christmas!