As we eagerly step into the new year, many of us are looking forward to what 2024 has in store for us.
For those who have been enchanted by the beauty and sustainable ethos of SOLAS Eco Garden Centre, there’s even more reason to be excited.
SOLAS has some exciting plans on the horizon, and they are ready to take their offerings to new heights in 2024.
Container Gardening Service
One of the most anticipated additions to SOLAS in 2024 is the introduction of their Container Gardening Service, set to be rolled out in January.
This service aims to offer special rates to local businesses on containers, window boxes, hanging baskets, and large planters. In collaboration with local establishments, SOLAS plans to brighten up towns and villages in the surrounding area with lush and vibrant greenery.
Co-owner of SOLAS, John Carey, expressed his enthusiasm for this new service, stating, “Here at SOLAS, we have the perfect setup and expertise to offer incredible value and a quality product to local businesses, schools, and tidy towns.
“Together with our suppliers in plants, our on-site horticulturalists, and our large greenhouse, we can create the perfect hanging basket or planter for you.”
Local businesses interested in availing themselves of this planted container service can reach out to John at solas@thegardenshop.ie for more details.
Christmas Extravaganza
Following the resounding success of their Christmas festivities in 2023, SOLAS is set to go bigger and better for Christmas 2024.
SOLAS became a Christmas destination for families in the previous year, drawing large crowds. John Carey shared his excitement for the upcoming holiday season, saying, “It was clear from the crowds that visited us in December 23 that we are becoming a Christmas destination for families, and that has really given us the motivation to go bigger for next year.
“We want to introduce a Christmas lights experience and a more immersive experience for our customers.”
With this promise, SOLAS is poised to create unforgettable holiday memories for families in the coming year.
Seasonal Food Hampers
Another exciting development for 2024 is the introduction of seasonal food hampers at SOLAS.
These hampers will be a regular feature, offering a delectable selection for every season and occasion throughout the year.
The range of SOLAS food hampers is truly wonderful, filled with handpicked, locally sourced delights that capture the essence of the seasons.
Homegrown Herbs and Salads
In the realm of food, SOLAS is taking a giant leap towards sustainability by growing their own herbs and salads on-site.
They are currently in the process of constructing a new greenhouse to cultivate fresh, flavourful ingredients, including salads, tomatoes, herbs, rocket, sprouts, and leafy greens.
This initiative aligns perfectly with SOLAS’s commitment to supporting the local community and sourcing ingredients locally.
SOLAS’s reputation for utilizing local produce is well-earned. From onsite honey production to milk sourced from cattle grazing a stone’s throw away, they champion local suppliers and artisans.
Even their coffee is roasted in nearby Portarlington, and they recently earned the distinction of becoming a Laois Taste Ambassador, celebrating the wealth of local produce available at their shop.
As 2024 unfolds, SOLAS Eco Garden Centre is gearing up to offer an array of exciting new experiences and services.
From enhancing the beauty of local towns through their Container Gardening Service to creating magical memories during the holiday season and crafting delectable food hampers, SOLAS is set to continue its mission of promoting sustainability, supporting the local community, and providing unforgettable experiences for all who visit. Stay tuned for a year filled with growth, innovation, and eco-friendly adventures at SOLAS.
Upcoming Events & opening Hours
Normal hours resume January 2nd 2024
Coming in January
Health and wellbeing event is returning in January. If you wish to take part or want to find out more contact George events@thegardenshop.ie
Farmers’ Market – Saturday, 11am-4pm
Our farmers market will return on Saturday the 6th January. We will have all your favourites including local meat, organic vegetables, delicious hand made cakes, fresh bread, honey and fish
Craft Markets
Our craft markets will return in February 2024
If you wish to join our market you can email George events@thegardenshop.ie
Christmas Tree Shredding Service – January 13 and 14
Christmas Tree Shredding Service at SOLAS
Eamon O’Reilly and Bartletts Tree Experts will be on site with their big shredder to shred your tree!
The service is free but donations are welcome as they raise money for Portarlington Meals on Wheels.
Food @ SOLAS
New year, delicious new menu items in our food court: Cheesy garlic pizza bread, made from fresh dough, hand stretched and served daily.
For breakfast, our new additions are hot Belgian waffles served with fruit compote and fresh whipped cream and Black pudding hash, topped with a fried egg and sriracha sauce.
As a proud supporter of Laois Taste and we want to say thank you to all our local makers that helped and inspired us in creating the food and drinks menu in Solas Food Court.
SEE ALSO – Check out the Solas Eco Garden Centre website here
