The Headford and District Association is appealing to the community for urgent support as it faces a €5,000 shortfall following the installation of this year’s Christmas lights in Headford. We launched an appeal prior to Christmas and were overwhelmed by the generosity of local businesses. Unfortunately, given the increased costs this year, the funds raised did not fully cover the expenses.
The total cost of providing the 2025 Christmas lights display, including the supply and installation of the lights and Christmas trees, amounted to €11,519. In recent years, the cost of delivering the display has risen significantly due to increasing energy prices, higher installation and insurance costs, enhanced safety and compliance requirements, and the ongoing maintenance, storage and replacement of equipment.
In addition, changes to insurance regulations mean that community volunteers who previously assisted with the installation are no longer permitted to undertake work at height. As a result, the committee was required to engage qualified external contractors to ensure the lights were installed safely and in full compliance with health and safety standards. While essential and in the interest of public safety, this has added considerably to the overall cost.
In previous years, a Government Christmas Lights Fund, administered through the local council, helped to offset some of these expenses. As this funding is no longer available, the voluntary committee is now facing an outstanding shortfall of €5,000 which must be addressed.
The Association, a volunteer-led group dedicated to the improvement and development of the town and its surrounding areas, has now launched an iDonate fundraising campaign and is asking residents, businesses and the wider community for support.
The Christmas lights play an important role in creating a festive atmosphere for residents and visitors alike, while also supporting local businesses by increasing footfall and enhancing the overall appearance of the town during the winter season. Any contribution, no matter how small, will go directly towards clearing the outstanding balance and ensuring the continuation of the Christmas lights display.
Those who wish to support the campaign can donate via the Association’s iDonate page. Alternatively, anyone who would like to contribute in another capacity can contact the committee directly at [email protected] or by phone at 089 267 0052.
The committee extends its sincere thanks to the community for its continued generosity and support.
