Spectacular symphony of light and music to illuminate St Patrick’s Cathedral this December

‘Cathedral - A Symphony of Light and Music’ will transform the iconic facade of St Patrick’s Cathedral in Dundalk into a kaleidoscope of colour, imagery, and motion - a vivid celebration of the cathedral’s enduring role as a place of peace and reconciliation in the heart of the community.

Not to be missed, this three-night open-air experience showcases the power of music and creativity to inspire peace, and is made possible by the support of main commercial partner Dundalk Credit Union in association with Dundalk BIDS, The Cross Border Orchestra of Ireland and St Patrick's Cathedral. 

The majestic audio-visual shows will take place on Friday 12th (6 - 7pm), Saturday 13th (5 - 6pm) and Sunday 14th of December (4.30 - 5pm and 6.45 - 8pm).

Audiences of all ages are invited to gather for this free community celebration where light, architecture, and music combine to create an unforgettable festive experience in the centre of Dundalk. Attendees are encouraged to dress warmly and arrive early to enjoy the atmosphere and secure the best viewing points.

Read also: Must see Christmas toy exhibition opens at County Museum in Dundalk

Adding to this spectacular visual display, on Sunday a magnificent concert by the internationally acclaimed Cross Border Orchestra of Ireland (CBOI), renowned for its musical excellence and its mission of peace, will take place in the Cathedral. This ticketed event fully sold out in record time, which is a testament to these exceptionally talented young musicians from across the island of Ireland.

Founding Director of CBOI, Sharon McArdle said, “We’re so thrilled to bring our Christmas concert ‘Peace & Light’ to St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Dundalk this year, especially as we celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Cross Border Orchestra of Ireland.

"Music has a way of bringing people together, across borders and across generations; and we hope this concert will be a really special moment for our hometown of Dundalk - a chance for families and friends to share something magical, meaningful and memorable at Christmas.

"We’re hugely grateful to Archbishop Eamonn Martin, the team at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, TCCM Manager Martin McElligott, Dundalk Credit Union, the Goodman Foundation, Thomas Sharkey, Principal and everyone at Coláiste Chú Chulainn where we rehearse each Sunday, all at LMETB, our wonderful CBOI volunteers and friends, and everyone who helped in any way to make this very special event possible. We can’t wait to celebrate with the whole community.”

Billy Doyle, CEO of Dundalk Credit Union, added "Christmas is a time for celebration, reflection and remembrance. We hope this event will draw people together to enjoy the spectacle of light and music at St Patrick's Cathedral, and also to step inside to light a candle for the loved ones our community has lost this year.

"We are incredibly proud to support an event that celebrates peace, unity and the enduring sense of community that defines the North East.

"Through our ongoing partnership with Dundalk BIDs, we continue to invest in initiatives that strengthen connection, celebrate heritage, and foster civic pride. We encourage families, friends and neighbours to join us to mark the season and celebrate all that is special about our town"

Town Centre Commercial Manager, Martin McElligott said "We are thrilled to bring this ambitious and uplifting event to the people of Dundalk.

"Symphony of Light and Music is a celebration of our town’s heritage, our young musicians, and the power of creativity to connect communities. We invite everyone to join us for this unforgettable festive experience at one of Dundalk’s most treasured landmarks."