A Magical Christmas at Ardgillan Castle: Thank You to Our Volunteers and Supporters!
This festive season Ardgillan Castle had the pleasure of hosting a truly special event that brought joy to children and families while supporting a cause close to our hearts. Over the course of two magical days, local families visited the castle for a Santa experience like no other, one that not only spread festive cheer but also gave back to the community.
CHARITY DONATION
At Ardgillan Castle, we’ve hosted numerous Christmas events over the years, but this year, we wanted to make it even more meaningful. Partnering with Skerries Youth Support Services, a wonderful local charity that supports young people in our community, we were able to create an experience that was both fun and impactful. All proceeds from the event were donated to the charity, helping them continue their important work
THANKS TO OUR VOLUNTEERS
The magic of the event wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication and creativity of our volunteers. Former employee and incredibly talented event planner, Carolyn Croke, truly brought the holiday spirit to life. Carolyn volunteered her time and transformed the kitchens of Ardgillan Castle into a stunning winter wonderland—a Grotto where every young visitor could meet Santa, take photos, and experience the magic of the season. The Grotto was a sight to behold, filled with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that made everyone feel like they were stepping into a fairytale.
We were also fortunate to have two local legends—Dermot Higgins and Fran Crowell—volunteer as Santa Claus for the event. Both Dermot and Fran generously donned the red suit, bringing their warmth and charm to every child who visited. Their kind hearts and dedication made the experience even more special for all who attended. The Grinch even made a special appearance!
ANNUAL GIFT FAIR
But the magic didn’t stop there. The same weekend, we also hosted the Ardgillan Gift Fair, where local artists and craftspeople displayed their beautiful work. From handmade jewelry to unique gifts, visitors had the chance to explore a variety of local treasures, making it the perfect place to pick up something special for the holidays. The fair was a true celebration of local talent, and we’re grateful to everyone who participated.
LOCAL MUSICAL TALENT
Adding to the festive atmosphere, the Balbriggan Gospel Choir graced us with their beautiful voices, filling the Drawing Room with the sounds of Christmas carols. This performance was the pinnacle of the weekend, creating a magical moment for families as they gathered to sing along and celebrate the season together.
Throughout the weekend, we were also treated to performances by Edel Murray, Mursheen Durkin, and Gabor Zazjon, whose music added even more festive joy to the occasion. Their talent and generosity made the event even more memorable for everyone who attended.
GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY
The event was a wonderful success, thanks to the support of our incredible community. Not only did it bring joy to families, but it also raised much-needed funds for Skerries Youth Support Services, which plays a crucial role in supporting young people in our area. We’re so grateful for the generosity of everyone involved—whether it was through volunteering, attending, or contributing in other ways.
Thank you to everyone who made this event so special, and we wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!