14/10/2026
A big thanks to Kells Nollaig Festival & Christmas Lights for the effort being made to ensure everyone has a chance to be involved in these festivities. Id urge anyone who thinks they might need to use this space to reply to their post so we can assess numbers etc and try to make this as inclusive as possible🥰
🎄❤️ A Sensory Rest Area for Nollaig 2026!
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We would urge anyone who thinks they might need to use this space to reply under this post so we can assess numbers etc and try to make this as inclusive as possible🥰
For years, we've been trying to find a way to provide a sensory-friendly space at our Christmas Lights Switch-On....
Between road access for emergencies, limited volunteers and finding somewhere suitable without isolating families from the celebrations, it's certainly been a challenge!
But this year, we hope we've found a solution! ❤️
Working alongside Kells Autism Inclusion Group and Paddy Jarratt from Youthreach, we're hoping to introduce a Sensory Rest Area near T&J Gavigan's.
This would provide a quieter, sheltered space for children with additional needs when the crowds and noise become overwhelming. Its elevated position may also offer a chance to watch Santa arrive away from the hustle and bustle.
❤️ This is a rest area, not a play area.
❤️This is not a go to for shelter from the harsh Irish weather (We wish we could cover the whole of Farrell Street for this event, but that would require a euromillions ticket and a dream
❤️ Parents or guardians must remain with their children.
❤️ Numbers will be limited and monitored at all times.
But we need your help! 🙋♀️
We're a small voluntary committee, and while we have plenty of ideas, we only have so many hands! This is a community project, and we'll need extra volunteers to make it happen.
We'd love your feedback!
Would your family avail of this space? Please comment below or message us privately. Understanding the demand will help us plan.
🙋 Volunteer: https://www.nollaigfestival.ie/volunteer-sign-up
❤️ Support our GoFundMe: https://gofund.me/c4e9ac7c9
We're still working out the details, but we're determined to make Nollaig a more welcoming and inclusive celebration for everyone.
Our town. Our festival. Our community. ❤️🎄
Image is a proposed mock-up. Final arrangements are subject to confirmation.
