With a prevalent festive atmosphere very much to the fore, the Athlone Christmas market will be a focal point within the town’s Civic Square with cabins open for shop local trade from Friday, December 18 to Sunday, December 20, inclusive.
Speaking to the Athlone Advertiser this week, Cllr Frankie Keena, welcomed the festive initiative as he encouraged members of the local community to give of their shop local support to the Christmas market.
“The attractive timber market cabins secured by the Athlone Festival and Events Project Group in 2019 will again be provided for the traders. These cabins create a marvellous festive atmosphere and will compliment the fantastic array of products that will be on sale by local traders from both the Athlone and wider district areas.
“Working in tandem with the Athlone Chamber of Commerce, we have decided to reduce the number of cabins from twelve to ten this year to allow for adequate space for social distancing enabling the public peace of mind as they shop.
“Our location has also changed this year whereby the cabins will stretch from the canopy on Church Street towards the post office.
“We will be implementing all the present public health guidelines for the duration of the Christmas market. All traders will also have hand sanitizer on their stalls available for public use and appropriate signage will be erected.
“I would like to sincerely thank Westmeath County Council for its generous financial support towards this market as it would not be taking place without their assistance,” Cllr Keena stated.
The Athlone Christmas market will be open for trade on Friday from 12pm-7pm, on Saturday from 9am-6pm and on Sunday from 11am-6pm.
“It is vitally important for members of the public to shop local this festive season and a vibrant Christmas market will certainly attract further trade, complementing what is on offer from our high street retailers,” Mr Gerry McInerney, Athlone Chamber CEO, enthused.
Local businesses which are partaking in the Athlone Christmas market include A Room in Bloom, Frame your Name, Dedanu Wellness Gifts, Woodcraft, Peeky Boo Dog Accessories, Candles by Regina, Linda Moran Harte-Candles and Scents, Bastion Kitchen, Praline Chocolates, Athlone Rotary -Christmas Rememberance.
