Shop ‘n Spraoi a seasonal success

Shop ‘n Spraoi a seasonal success


Áine Ryan

Westport's scenic Mall transformed into a winter wonderland over last weekend as thousands of people sampled the festive delights and quality produce on sale at the inaugural Shop ‘n Spraoi traditional market.
With sympathetic weather gods, the town’s twinkling seasonal lights reflecting in the frost-covered trees, Santa and his sleigh in the old Bank of Ireland courtyard, a live crib, carols agus ceol celebration was the theme of the weekend.  
“The Christmas Market was a great success and really caught the imagination,” observed Cathaoirleach of Westport Town Council, Cllr Myles Staunton.
“Importantly, it succeeded in attracting a significant number of additional visitors to the town which was a key objective. I want to compliment everyone involved in the organising and running of such a festive event. It was extra special to see the team work, partnership and cooperation of all the different strands that make Westport special. Well done to everyone involved,” Cllr Staunton said.
The Westport Shop ‘n Spraoi na Nollag Christmas Market, which ran from Friday to Sunday last, attracted visitors to the town from all over the country.
“We’re delighted with the success of the market. So many people travelled to Westport over the weekend to attend this authentic market and that can only be good for everyone in the town,” said President of Westport Chamber of Commerce, Danny McLaughlin..
“We have all heard about the Christmas Markets in Munich, Prague, Edinburgh and Vienna and now we have one just as good in our own town. The atmosphere all weekend in Westport was very special.  There was a real buzz around town and the market seemed to cheer everyone up,” he continued.
Artisan craft and food producers from all over Mayo participated in the fair, which offered an Alladin’s Cave of goods – from jewellery to pottery, wooden craftworks to Christmas cards, as well as cakes and jams, chocolates and fudges. 
“I want to sincerely thank everyone that supported and participated in the Westport Shop ‘n Spraoi na Nollag. So many people worked around the clock over the weekend to make the event a success and without the entire support of the community it would not have worked,” added Danny McLaughlin.
Westport Shop ‘n Spraoi na Nollag was supported by the Westport Chamber of Commerce, Westport Town Council, South West Mayo Development Company under the Rural Development Programme 2007-2013, The Mayo News, FΡilte Ireland, Western Development Commission and Gnó Mhaigh Eo.