Mayor host special Festive Derry Welcome
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.
The event – taking place from 1.00pm to 6.00pm on Saturday and Sunday - is open to everyone and entertainment will continue throughout the weekend with music, song and plenty of family fun for the kids.
Mayor Councillor Elisha McCallion (pictured), 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 will also welcome 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, 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.
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 Tuesday . 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 [email protected]