Kilkenny's Christmas Tree Festival set to return to St Canice's Cathedral

Is your Christmas tree beautifully arranged with a coordinated colour scheme, a mass of sentimental homemade decorations or is it a bit lopsided looking?

Well, if you are ever in need of new ideas and inspiration, the upcoming Christmas Tree Festival at St Canice’s Cathedral might just inspire you to enter one yourself.

Every Advent, the Christmas Tree Festival is held in the ancient cathedral transforming the area into a winter wonderland. Local people, voluntary groups, schools and businesses are invited to enter their tree creations, that in some way represent themselves, their group or business, for display at the festival.

All this takes place over the second weekend of December. Local singers and musicians will perform, plus activities for children including a visit from Mrs Claus. Seasonal stalls, teas and coffee, home baking, help to create the festive atmosphere, plus that rare chance to climb the cathedral bell tower.

There is still time for you to enter a tree in theChristmas Tree Festival. This forest of trees has evolved over the last eight years and looks to have a bumper crop for 2023.

Entry forms to be returned by December 1 for trees to be set up on Tuesday, December 5. The festival is aimed at reflecting and illuminating what is good in the local community, with everything from natural fir trees to those sculpted from recycled materials all expected in what will be a magical beginning to the Christmas season.

Donations from the income are shared between parish funds, and this year’s chosen charities for a donation are Laura Lynn, Christian and Protestant Aid.

All details are on the Christmas Tree Facebook Page. A family ticket is only €10 , and is a lovely way to spend a few hours. It runs from December 7-12.