From the balcony of Bewley’s in Dublin’s city centre on Thursday it was clear that the greatest time of the year is just around the corner of Grafton Street. As the Christmas lights were switched on to initiate the start of the merry season, families and passersby looked on as the magic spread from near St Stephen’s Green to the edge of Wicklow Street. With 40 days left until Christmas, all are now welcome to indulge in the festivities they had been waiting for as Dublin dons its winter coat.
Aine Nolan with a garda after switching on the lights on Grafton Street. Photo: Bryan Meade. The decorations, courtesy of Dublin Town, have become a part of the landscape for over 15 years and will continue to provide Christmas lighting across 25 streets for the 16th year running.
“There is nowhere quite like Dublin City centre at Christmas,” said Dublin Town CEO, Richard Guiney. “The Dublin Town Christmas lights are by far the biggest task we undertake for our business members and people of the city, and beyond, each year.” Alyssa Reid with a Garda after switching on the Christmas light at Grafton Street.
Photo: Bryan Meade. Mr Guiney said that the lights were the major catalyst of the city centre Christmas buzz and attracted footfall. “Shopping and socialising in Dublin City centre under the iconic Christmas lights is a key Christmas experience for many.
“We invite everyone who can to come to town and make new Christmas memories under the magic of the Dublin Town Chri.
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