Still time to enter Kilkenny's Christmas Tree Festival at St Canice’s Cathedral

There is still time to enter a tree in the Christmas Tree Festival in St Canice’s Cathedral, which will be held over the weekend of December 4-8.

The festival which is run by Kilkenny Union of Parishes has grown from strength to strength but this year we want to make it bigger and better. Entry forms are to be returned by November 18 for trees to be set up on Tuesday, December 2.

The Dean of St Canice’s Cathedral, the Rev Stephen Farrell, has said it is wonderful to see the cathedral transformed into a winter wonderland.

“There are trees of every conceivable shape and size and I marvel at the ingenuity and creativity of those who take part,” he said.
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“I am always delighted to see how many schools, individuals and families make the Tree Festival the start of their Christmas, and it really gets people in the mood for Christmas.

“As ever the Festival will be supporting good causes, The Alzheimer’s Society of Ireland, Kilkenny branch and Special Olympics Kilkenny, our small way of giving back to the community which sustains and supports us throughout the year.”

The trees can be entered from businesses, individuals, schools, sports clubs, musical groups etc. The trees will vary from tall and inspiring to small and delicate but made of all sorts of products associated with the entrant. Some edibles, some wacky, some arty, all with their own take on this special tree that adorns ours homes each year.

All details are available on the cathedral website, but you also can ring or drop in to find out all details of how to enter or what’s on to plan your visit as part of Yulefest.

There will also be lots to see and do, with children’s activities with some festive cheer throughout each day. Tasty treats, teas, and a seasonal stall, raffle are all part of the festival. The popular Giving Tree will be there, where donations that will be passed on to local charities can be left.

The Cois Nore Choir will be welcomed for their first time to sing at the festival Saturday , December 7 at noon.
Irish Music takes centre stage in the afternoon with the Ceoltas Junior and Senior groups. On Sunday, Quartet Pagano will play by the tree and later the Gospel Choir led by Fr Willie Purcell will also join for some Christmas renditions.

All information is on St Canice’s Cathedral website and social media pages.
For further information, visit stcanicescathedral.com.