FESTIVE FEVER set in on Saturday when in excess of 8,500 people descended on Wexford’s Main Street for the official launch of the inaugural Wexford Winterland festival.
The occasion attracted record numbers to the town’s main thoroughfare and retailers described it as the strongest day’s trade in years.
One established Wexford businessman noted that he enjoyed the “busiest day in over 15 years”.
The organisers are hopeful that the momentum will continue and the festive season will inject a much-needed boost into the Main Street, which has for the past seven years been blighted by shop closures and vacant properties.
The focal point of the event was the official switching on of the festive lights at the Bullring.
Acting as a prelude, a lively parade made its way along the Main Street beforehand. The myriad of colourful performers from Bui Bolg and samba performers from Bloco Garman helped to build the atmosphere and attracted crowds to make their way to the epicentre of the town, where the ceremony began some time afterwards.
Stewards estimated that in excess of 2,000 people flocked to the Bullring for the official launch.
Mayor of Wexford and county councillor George Lawlor along with President of Wexford Chamber Martin Doyle addressed the huge crowd.
The key objective behind the festival is to drive economic growth. This sentiment was echoed in the brief speech made by Mr Doyle.
“Whilst this is the very first Winterland, it is Wexford Chamber’s intention that the festival will grow year on year to ensure that our town is at the forefront of shopping experiences at Christmas time,” said the President of Wexford Chamber.
He continued: “I want to appeal to you all to continue to shop locally, not only at Christmas time but all year round. Your support will ensure that local Wexford businesses will survive and thrive and not only sustain employment, but also create more jobs for you, your family, friends and neighbours.”
Wexford Winterland is a joint venture between Wexford County Council, Wexford Chamber and Lantern Promotions.
The key objective of the project is to make Wexford a so-called Christmas hub, in an effort to stimulate local trade.
Sports Savers Wexford on Ice opened its doors on Saturday morning. The ice rink has been installed in a marquee on Wexford’s quay front.
Selskar Square will be transformed into ‘Selskar Under the Stars’ when a temporary roof is erected on December 12th.
This fully covered venue will host a number of high profile music gigs including Mick Flannery, Corner Boy and The Strypes.
It will also be used to show a number of popular family movies including The Snowman, Arthur Christmas, Miracle on 34th Street and Home Alone.
For ticket bookings to any of the events visit the Wexford Winterland Box Office at 1 North Main Street (top of Anne Street). Tickets are also available at www.wexfordwinterland.com.