Here's how to celebrate Christmas in Mullingar

Christmas Carols, twinkly lights, evergreen trees, bright stars and Christmas Markets – Mullingar will be a magical place this Christmas and even the council is getting in the spirit by offering free car parking for every weekend in December.

Mullingar Chamber president, Pat Whelan says: “Every cent is in important as people manage their money for Christmas and the free car parking will make a big difference for people using Mullingar for the Christmas shopping. We are grateful to the council and the councillors for this generous decision, which we believe will make a big difference.

“But that is only the beginning of the wonderful time people will have if they come into Mullingar for their shopping.

“The chamber is working really hard on creating a beautiful Christmas streetscape in Mullingar, including wonderful Christmas lights to dispel the winter gloom, gorgeous Christmas trees, beautiful window displays, craft and food markets to add colour and character and the perfect expression of Christmas – carol singers.

“Christmas is special. It is important and it is something we should celebrate. This has been a long, tough year for people. So I would say to people: come into town, meet your friends for lunch and stay out all day.

“Sons, take your mum shopping, or daughters, take your dad out for tea and scones.

“Treat your children to marshmallows and cream on their hot chocolate before heading to the Panto.

“Celebrate this year and celebrate Christmas by spending time with the people you love” says Pat, “knowing that by doing so you are supporting not just local business but local people, your community.”