Brought to you by Laois Tourism
Christmas is very much in the air this weekend with Santa in at least four locations in Laois.
We’ve craft fairs and markets so there is lots of opportunity to get some unique Christmas gifts without leaving the county.
The Portlaoise Musical Society takes to the stage this Saturday night for a week long run of Titanic the Musical. This high quality production should not be missed and is selling out very fast, so don’t miss out.
THURSDAY NOVEMBER 22
Hospital Table Quiz
This is another chance to test your general knowledge and support a great cause at the same time.
Tables cost just €40 for a team of four and all money raised will go to the very deserving Special Baby Care Unit in the Midlands Regional Hospital.
So come along to Hume’s Pub, Portlaoise at 8pm for some brain teasers. There will also be lots of prizes to win on the night.
FRIDAY NOVEMBER 23
Smash Hits
Its back to the 90’s with the well-known and much love Smash Hits the 90s tribute act.
This nostalgia filled feel good night kicks off at 9.30pm in Kavanaghs Bar & Venue and tickets cost €20. To get tickets see here.
Abandoman- Pirate Radio
Kavanaghs Bar & Venue also host hip hop musical comedian, Abandoman this Friday night.
Enjoy a great blend of audience interaction, songs and captivating tales all delivered with razor sharp wit. Tickets are just €12 and the event begins at 9.30pm.
Little Black Dress Night
Seize the opportunity to get dressed up and come along to Bennys, Abbeyleix Friday night at 9.00pm.
This is a novel fundraiser with all proceeds going to the Christmas Lights fund. There will be a great DJ and a raffle on the night. Donations are also requested.
Errill Community Alert Table Quiz
Errill Community Alert is holding a Table Quiz in Ray’s Bar at 9pm. A table of four is just €20 and promises to be a fun filled evening.
SATURDAY NOVEMBER 24
Santa’s Grotto Emo Court
Christmas has to be just around the corner when Santa begins his visits to Laois. This weekend he can be found at Emo Court and he’ll be there on certain dates until the December 24.
Each child will be greeted by Ellie Elf & brought to Santa’s beautiful grotto where they will help Mrs Claus prepare her cookies, have a chat with Santa & receive a gift.
Afterwards, they will have hot chocolate & a cookie in the Tea Rooms. €15 per child. Adults go free. Booking by prior reservation. Ph: 057 8633964 (9.30am-16.00pm)
Christmas Craft Fair – Stradbally
This Saturday sees the first Christmas Craft Fair in Stradbally. There will be over 25 stalls set up in Napper Tandy’s from 11am to 7pm.
Enjoy the festive atmosphere with music and sample the tastes of home baking, mulled wine and hot chocolate. For more information contact 05786 41694.
Slippery When Wet – Live Music
All Bon Jovi fans should not miss Slippery When Wet this Saturday night in Kavanaghs Bar & Venue. This Bon Jovi tribute act is full on and fans will not be disappointed. Doors open at 9.30pm and tickets cost € 19. For more information see www.kavanaghsportlaoise.com.
Slieve Bloom Guided Walk
The Slieve Bloom Walking Club’s next guided walk is the Lost Village Loop This walk is a 6km Grade C walk and takes 2 hours so suitable for most. Meeting point is at the Ridge of Capard carpark at 11am. €5 per walk or €20 annual membership.
Titanic the Musical
This is one that we have all been waiting for. Portlaoise Musical Society presents one of their most spectacular productions to date, Titanic the Musical.
This show is running from the 24 November to 1 December and is almost sold out so you will need to be fast if you want to see the show.
Kicking off this Saturday in Dunamaise Arts Centre at 8pm (6pm Sunday). Tickets cost €18/€15/€12. For more information or to book see www.dunamaise.ie or call 057 866 2255.
Social Dance – Mountmellick
The monthly social dance will be held in the Owenass Hall from 9.30pm to 12.30pm. Great music by The Kelly Family. Light refreshments will be served and all are welcome.
SUNDAY NOVEMBER 25
Slieve Bloom Guided Walk
The Slieve Bloom Walking Club’s next guided walk is the Two Rivers. This walk is a 10km Grade A walk and takes 4 hours so suitable for good level of fitness.
Meeting point is Clonaslee Community Centre at 11am. €5 per walk or €20 annual membership.
Portlaoise Christmas Market
There are so many opportunities to shop local this weekend. The main street in Portlaoise will be transformed into a winter wonderland with a large market running from 11am to 6pm.
Come along and browse the wonderful stalls full of crafts, food and Christmas present ideas. Santa will be popping along at 2pm and will also officially turn on the Christmas lights at 4.30am.
This is a wonderful initiative by Downtown Portlaoise and promises to be a very enjoyable day.
Walk A Mile For P.A.T.H.
Walk A Mile for P.A.T.H. (Portlaoise Action To Homelessness) is another very deserving charity that should be supported if you can.
Come along at 12 noon to walk a mile from Heritage House. Afterwards return to Heritage House for refreshments.
Cash donations welcome or bring along a Christmas Goodie Bag with items like toothbrush, toothpaste, hoodie, hat, blanket, crisps, chocolate bars, scarf, gloves etc.
GAA Annual Auction
Rathdowney Errill GAA host their annual auction in St Bernadette’s Hall Errill. The day begins at 2.30 and will have lots for both young and old.
Enjoy the wheel of fortune, cake sale and monster auction. Santa will also make an appearance at 1pm. A great way to support a local club.
If you would like to have something included in our What’s On Guide email us on info@laoistoday.ie or call 057 8670722.
SEE ALSO – Fundraiser launched to make little Laois girl’s Christmas wish come through
