Bray Town Centre came alive with joy and excitement today (Saturday, November 23rd) as the official Christmas lights on Main Street were switched on at the Civic Plaza, marking the start of the town’s much-anticipated festive season. Starting at 4:45 pm, the event gathered a large crowd for a magical outdoor celebration filled with music, laughter, and merriment.
The evening’s highlight was the spectacular arrival of Santa Claus, who thundered into town on a Harley Davidson. He was accompanied by an escort from An Garda Síochána, Bray’s 2023 Person of the Year, Dessie O’Toole, and other Harley Davidson riders, heralding the official switch-on of the lights. This year, Francesca Fitzpatrick and her family had the honour of illuminating Bray’s Main Street, revealing new, bespoke Christmas lights that dazzled the gathering. All the festive lights are powered by energy-efficient LEDs, designed to consume 75% less electricity than traditional bulbs—an eco-conscious step in Bray’s commitment to sustainability.
Above is a selection of photos from the launch of Bray’s Christmas Lights Switch-On Celebration—photos by Leigh Anderson
Kieran Ward, President of the Bray & District Chamber of Commerce, said, “A huge thanks to everyone who came along to Bray’s spectacular Christmas lights switch-on event. A special shout-out to Diana Moorhouse, Adam Burke, Square One Theatre Group, the Studio X Dance Crew, along with our service providers, stewards, and volunteers, whose efforts made this evening truly special.”
This event was part of the larger “Unwrap the Christmas Magic in Bray – Your Festive Season Starts Here” campaign, which is a collaboration between the Bray and District Chamber of Commerce, bray.ie and Bray Municipal District, Wicklow County Council.
The campaign encourages the local community to shop, hire, and source locally, emphasising that supporting local businesses not only enhances the festive spirit but also strengthens the town’s economic growth.
Beyond the switch-on ceremony, the Christmas in Bray campaign promises an array of special events, experiences, and activities extending into late November and December. The town invites residents and visitors alike to enjoy everything from Christmas markets to candlelight concerts and family-friendly activities. This year, Bray won’t just sparkle with its brilliant lights—it will offer unique, memorable experiences that celebrate the season.
“We appreciate all the local businesses that have contributed to the Christmas in Bray campaign, events, and activities. If your business would like to contribute, don’t hesitate to email the Bray and District Chamber at info@braychamber.ie,” concluded Kieran.
Main photo 1: Pictured at the launch of Bray’s Christmas Lights Switch-On Celebration (left to right) are Santa Claus, Kieran Ward, President of the Bray & District Chamber of Commerce, local Olympian Daina Moorehouse and the Grinch.
To learn more about the Christmas events and activities in Bray, here. All events and activities are subject to change without notice. Competitions close on Friday, December 20th 2024.
Join the conversation – Use the hashtags #ChristmasInBray #UnwrapTheChristmasMagicInBray #WinterInBray #LoveBray #BestOfBray