Photos by Aaron Pang
Over 20,000 people gathered on O’Connell Street on Sunday, November 18, to celebrate the switching on of the city’s Christmas lights.
Dr Vicky Phelan and her family were selected as special guests of honour to switch on the lights and were joined onstage by Mayor of Limerick James Collins and Anna, Elsa and Olaf from Frozen.
Dr Vicky Phelan and family. Photo: Aaron Pang, Limerick Voice
Dr Phelan spoke about her excitement and how much it to her to be selected as special guest of honour:
“The biggest reason for me to be excited was that I didn’t think I’d be here at the start of the year.
“That’s what makes it all the more special for us this year.”
Photo: Aaron Pang, Limerick Voice
The Light Up Limerick event began shortly after 4:30pm when a variety of talented acts performed on the main stage before the official countdown.
Moyross Corpus Christi Choir and Limerick Gospel Choir provided the musical entertainment through their crowd-pleasing renditions of classical festive songs.
Photo: Aaron Pang, Limerick Voice
They were then accompanied by members of the Limerick Panto Society from upcoming productions such as Alice in Wonderland and Snow White.
Photo: Aaron Pang, Limerick Voice
Santa Clause himself made a brief appearance and was incredibly well-received by the children before the countdown commenced.
Limerick’s Live 95FM presenter JP Dillon had the duty of counting the clock down and when the switch was pulled dazzling lights swiftly illuminated the city’s main thoroughfare.
Photo: Aaron Pang, Limerick Voice
Snow cannons started spraying foam into the crowds and a short fireworks display added to the spectacle of the occasion.
Photo: Aaron Pang, Limerick Voice
Mayor James Collins described the event as “a fantastic occasion that shows Limerick at its very best.”
Light Up Limerick officially marks the beginning of the Christmas in Limerick programme.
Photo: Aaron Pang, Limerick Voice
The Christmas in Limerick programme is being co-ordinated by Limerick City and County Council (LCCC) who intend to run a number of special festive events and initiatives over the coming weeks.
Photo: Aaron Pang, Limerick Voice
Speaking on behalf of LCCC, Head of Marketing and Communications Laura Ryan said:
“A six week campaign showcasing just how special Limerick is at Christmas time is now underway.”
Photo: Aaron Pang, Limerick Voice
