Frostival's Carnival of Light parade takes place in Dundalk this evening

This year’s Dundalk Credit Union ‘Frostival Winter Festival’ kicks of this evening, Friday 17th, with the Carnival of Light parade.

The highlight of the festival is the Carnival of Light parade at 7pm this evening which promises to be a magical family affair and the biggest carnival performance to date, with a few surprises along the way!

The parade route will animate and illuminates the town centre as it weaves its way through Clanbrassil Street, Crowe Street, Francis Street and Park Street, turning at Oscar’s corner and towards the Demesne to its final destination at the Longwalk SC.

Martin Mc Elligott, Town Centre Commercial Manager, is encouraging the public to “Come and celebrate the start of the festive season in style with family and friends, from far and wide, inviting them to join us in Dundalk for County Louth’s biggest Christmas celebration!”

A very special guest, Kate O’Connor, has been invited by Dundalk Credit Union to celebrate the official Christmas Light Switch On – together with Dundalk Fire Service Kate will place the star on the top of the Frostival Christmas Tree, which in turn activates the festive streetlights and heralds the start of the Carnival of Light parade!

Billy Doyle, CEO of Dundalk Credit Union revealed that “We are delighted Kate O’Connor, a local sporting star, European U-20 heptathlon silver medallist, Commonwealth games heptathlon silver medallist, and Irish indoor pentathlon record holder will help us light up the town for Christmas at Frostival on Friday.

“We are thrilled to be part of Frostival again this year and all that it brings in terms of festive warmth and cheer for families and businesses across our community.”

Also launching at 7pm this evening, Friday,  as part of the festival will be Dundalk Credit Union’s Christmas Animated Light Show which will transform Market Square into a shimmering canvas of images, special effects and other surprises!

These awe-inspiring illuminations will take place daily from 4pm over the festive season.

The Christmas Artisan Fair, open from 11am to 8pm on Friday at Market Square, is the perfect place to discover sweet treats and bespoke festive gifts.

The Little Elves Fun zone is ideal for younger children and open from 4pm until 8pm.

On Saturday the Artisan Fair re-opens at 11am, and the Fun Zone kicks off from 12 noon.

There will also be performances from Elite Star School of Performance and St. Brigid’s pipe Band in the lead up to Saturday’s headline act ‘FIRESTORM’ by Rogu - a fire show like no other at 6pm on Market Square and it’s free.

A perfect evening for all the family to enjoy, and finale to this year’s festival!

Billy Doyle, CEO of Dundalk Credit Union, emphasised the Credit Union’s commitment to promoting sustainability for our community, our businesses, and our future.

He stated, "Dundalk Credit Union is thrilled to continue its support of Frostival, a celebration that brings our community together and continues to champion ecofriendly choices across all events and activities.

“We believe in the power of events like Frostival to delight and engage with families and promote local businesses, and we are excited to be a part of this event that embodies the spirit of community, stronger together. Together, we'll light up Dundalk with the warmth of the season and a commitment to a greener future."

Colette Moss, Senior Executive Officer, Louth County Council: “Louth County Council are delighted to sponsor the 2023 Frostival festival.

“This fantastic festival is a wonderful additional to the calendar of events being run throughout the year by Dundalk BIDS. It will enhance the visitor experience in Dundalk in the run up to the Christmas season.

“I extend my best wishes to Martin and the team in Dundalk BIDS for another successful event.

Martin McElligott said: “Frostival is the perfect community event to bring everyone together to celebrate the start of the festive season.

“We would like to express our sincere thanks and appreciation to our main commercial sponsor Dundalk Credit Union, and our civic sponsor Louth County Council for their kind support and sponsorship of this year’s events.

“It would not be possible to organise and deliver a festival of this magnitude without their generosity and commitment, and also the support of our associate sponsors An Táin Arts Centre, The Urge Stage & Lighting, and Dundalk Tidy Towns.

“A special word of thanks also to An Garda Síochána, Dundalk Fire Brigade, The Civil Defence, Dundalk Football Club Security Team, and all the wonderful volunteers for their help!”

Keep an eye on @frostivaldundalk social media channels for updates!