PICTURES: Taste of Christmas brings winter wonderland to Roscrea

ROSCREA was rocking for the twelfth annual Taste of Christmas event in Roscrea, which brought a winter wonderland to the historic heart of the beautiful heritage town.

The Taste of Christmas festival and market, which is now in its twelfth year, once again gave a nice boost to busines in the town of Roscrea.

Approaching the Round Tower, the visitors were treated with the sound of music as all the choirs from the local schools sang out in their turns.

Impressive festive coloured lighting hung over the scene as the hive of activities for the two-day event unfolded with cheers and smiles all around as lifetime memories for families were forged.

St Cronans NS Rosemount provided the beautiful carol singing at the Taste of Christmas event and are pictured above with their Teacher, Clodagh Lawlor and Santa Claus and his Elves. Photo: PJ Wright

The Black Mills in all its splendour was host to over 40 stalls with something for everyone.

From woolen mills products, to honey galore, a cure for arthritis, timber products, flowers, candles, crafts and Christmas gifts and many other culinary delights.

Pictured above are Alice, Judy May, Majsie and Ailbhe all on the Christmas train. Photo: PJ Wright

Roscrea GAA launched their annual yearbook of the 'Year in the Red' at the event and Autism Awareness was supported generously by the visitors.

Children enjoyed a fun ride on the train as they made their way to see Santa. Over 500 children from a wide hinterland visited with Santa Claus and the legendary bearded fella was in brilliant form.

The Christmas Train - always a favourite with the children at the Taste of Christmas Festival. Photos: PJ Wright

The photographs will be in many a home this Christmas. As well at supporting the taste of Christmas, the turnout was good for local commerce and many other nearby businesses.

Councillor Michael Smith, Chairman of the Organising Committee and founder of the event, thanked all who helped to make this years’ Taste another success.

Pictured above is Rita Conlon with twins Sasha and Saoirse with Santa Claus in the Black Mills. Photo: PJ Wright

He gave particular thanks to the Office of Public Works for their customary co-operation and goodwill.

“The County Council once again came up trumps and this financial support made it possible to be generous towards many families with young children”, Cllr. Smith said.

Sasha Conlon with her beautiful hand made jewelery. Photo: PJ Wright

NEW IDEAS FOR NEXT YEAR

“We are always looking for new ideas”, Cllr Smith said, “to promote events of this nature and to make them more attractive. We want to see the smiling faces and happy children.

“Given the enormous amount of tragedy and sadness we have witnessed in recent months with war and conflict, it is important to always remember to be hopeful, and to remember the true spirit of Christmas”, he said.

Pictured above is Sean Rowland with his wood craft on sale at the Christmas Market. Photo: PJ Wright

“Our aim is to be in a positive community led organisation, always ready to embrace new ways of doing things and brining the best in our people.

“Everything we try to do is aimed at improving our society and ensuring the talents and business acumen of the local people in these challenging times get an opportunity to showcase their talents”, Cllr Smith said.

Pictured above displaying his work at the Christmas Market in the Black Mills is Graham Clark with his Bottle Art and below is Ciarad Keeffe with her Ceramic Arts. Photos: PJ Wright

Pictured above is Councillor Michael O'Meara with his award winning honey and below is Para Havatitye with one of his beautiful bog oak creations. Photos: PJ Wright

Pictured above is founder of the event, Councillor Michael Smith, thanking Santa for coming to Roscrea during the busy pre-Christmas period and below is Aisling O'Meara and Lila Carroll with beautiful hand knitted wear for all ages. Photos: PJ Wright

Pictured above are Elowen and Marissa Hayes after their visit with Santa and pictured below are Mary McNamara and Caroline Phelan with their buttons and beads craft work. Photos: PJ Wright

Pictured above is Monica McNicholas with her jewelry craft and below is Aileen Dooley with her handmade cards for all occasions. Photo: PJ Wright

Pictured above is Kevin Dooley from Roscrea Wool with bedding made from pure Irish wool and below is Maura Ryan with her handmade knitted garments and toys. Photo: PJ Wright

Pictured above is Siobhan Dignam and her handmade journals and below is Gaelle Schultz with her wood craft for the kitchen and home. Photos: PJ Wright