Mayor Elisha McCallion
THE Guildhall will be bursting with festive cheer this weekend as the Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District throws open the doors for her Christmas Welcome Event, taking place on December 19th and 20th.
The event is open to everyone and entertainment will continue throughout the weekend with music, song and plenty of family fun for the kids.
Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District, Councillor Elisha McCallion, said: “I’ve been invited to share in so many Christmas events across the district in the last number of weeks and I am delighted to be able to return the invitation to our citizens this weekend with my own festive celebration here in the Guildhall.
“The events are open to everyone and will feature a showcase of local musical talent with musicians and choirs from across the district taking part.
“I have also sent a special invitation to Santa, who is hoping to pay a visit and join in the fun at the story-telling igloo. I would like everyone to come along and get in the festive spirit this weekend.”
Among the many musical groups taking part are the Colmcille Ladies Choir, the Encore Contemporary Choir, Strabane Concert Brass Band, the Doire Calgach Singers, the Pink Ladies Choir, the Long Tower Folk Group and many more.
The Guildhall also welcomes some seasonal storytellers all the way from the North Pole who invite you to join them in their cosy igloo for stories of festive wonder.
There will be some fun children’s Christmas crafts and heart-warming refreshments available.
On Sunday morning, December 20th, Cornerstone Church will hold a special Christmas service at 10.30am in the Guildhall.
There will be live music, an inspirational message and children’s choir, with mulled punch and mince pies served afterwards.
The Mayor’s Christmas Welcome event will take place over the course of the two days, Saturday 19th and Sunday 20th, from 1pm – 6pm, and people can call into the Guildhall to enjoy some of the fantastic local talent on display.
There will also be a range of other activities taking place throughout the city over the weekend, including some festive markets in Guildhall Square, the Craft Village and Bishop’s Gate.
The Mayor will also be welcoming visitors from further afield to her special Diaspora Reception which takes place in the Guildhall on December 22.
Anyone with roots in the district who is returning to Derry or Strabane for a visit over the Christmas period is invited to come along and meet with the Mayor and share their story.
To find out more about the event and to register go to www.[email protected].
For more information on this event and the full Christmas Programme go to www.festivetime.com.
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