The popularity of the Athlone Christmas Market was clearly evident this past weekend as members of the public flocked en masse to sample the various wares on offer from local producers within the surrounds of the civic square in the heart of the town.
Speaking to the Athlone Advertiser this week, Westmeath County Council Cathaoirleach, Cllr Frankie Keena, noted that “fantastic feedback” had been received from members of the public during the opening two days of Athlone Christmas Market trade.
“The fantastic feedback received from members of the public following the first two days of the Athlone Christmas Market this past weekend was immensely pleasing and heartwarming to hear.
“The twelve timber market cabins which are provided this year are fully occupied by fantastic local traders selling a wide variety of fabulous gifts.
“I am delighted to witness the popularity of our Athlone Christmas Market evolve each year and I can now confirm that we have a waiting list of local traders seeking a cabin from which to display their produce. We have always stated that we want to keep the market to a high spec and now I am glad to see our plan paying dividends.
“So much work has been afforded towards the organisation of this market by both this group and Athlone Chamber of Commerce with the main objective being the creation of a festive atmosphere for the public and to attract more people to the town,” Cllr Keena stated.
Gerry McInerney, CEO of Athlone Chamber of Commerce, said the Christmas Market was just one of a number of initiatives which the Chamber supports.
“We are strong advocates of the need to shop local and our Athlone Gift Card initiative is one prime example of our work. Christmas markets such as this provide another opportunity for the public to enjoy the atmosphere of the festive season and at the same time to support local traders,” Mr McInerney commented.
Concluding, Cllr Keena stated that he would like to thank Westmeath County Council for its financial support towards the Athlone Christmas Market and also Spectrum Signs for sponsoring the promotional materials.
“The Athlone Christmas Market will be open once again next weekend from Friday, December 17 to Sunday, December 19, and we would encourage the public to come early so as not to miss that special bargain.
“In addition to the Christmas Market next weekend, the Midlands Polish Community are providing a musical extravaganza in the our civic square next Saturday. This is a show not to be missed so please come along and enjoy,” Cllr Keena remarked.
