As we embrace the holiday spirit, SOLAS is not just a garden centre; it’s a place of wonder and enchantment.
This week, we celebrated some remarkable achievements, starting with the visit of Deric, the weatherman from Ireland AM.
He graced Portarlington with his presence, bringing national TV coverage to our town.
John Carey, Co-owner of SOLAS, expressed his excitement, saying: “The visit of Deric from Ireland AM on Thursday morning was an absolute triumph.
“Not only did it bring national TV coverage to SOLAS, but it also showcased the beauty and charm of Portarlington to the entire nation.”
But that was just the beginning of a week filled with accomplishments.
Our staff member, Fiona Melvin, seamlessly integrated into our Farmers Market, demonstrating her remarkable talent. Her presence is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit that thrives amongst our team at SOLAS.
As the week unfolds, more excitement awaits as Christmas descends upon SOLAS, promising a festive season filled with joy and activities for the entire family.
Events @ SOLAS
Saturday:
- 10 am to 2 pm: The weekly Farmers Market, a haven for the finest local farm produce and crafts.
Sunday:
12 Noon & 2pm: Christmas Wreath making at SOLAS
Unleash your creativity, embrace the festive spirit, and join us for a delightful journey of crafting your very own personalized Christmas wreath.
Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or a complete beginner, our Christmas Wreath Making Course is designed to cater to all skill levels. Revel in the joy of hands-on creation and take home a stunning wreath that will be the envy of your holiday decor.
Course Highlights:
- Guidance from Experts: Our experienced instructors will guide you step-by-step, ensuring that your wreath reflects your unique style and captures the essence of the season.
- Quality Materials: Dive into a treasure trove of high-quality, seasonal materials, from fragrant evergreens to vibrant berries and festive ribbons.
- A Festive Atmosphere: Immerse yourself in the joyous ambiance of the holidays as you mingle with fellow participants, sharing stories and creating lasting memories.
Book online: https://www.thegardenshop.ie/wreath-making-class/
CHRISTMAS @ SOLAS
SOLAS Santa Grotto
- From Friday 1 December to Saturday 23 December, directly from the North Pole, Santa will be bringing his ‘Green (Plastic-Free) Christmas’ Experience to SOLAS. Tickets cost €10 each and include a gift and reindeer food. Book online.
- For Group bookings for schools or clubs, contact our Georgina at events@thegardenshop.ie
Christmas & Vintage Markets
- Throughout December, we will be hosting Craft and Vintage markets every Sunday and Thursday evening, with live music to get you in the festive spirit. Ideal for that perfect unique, handmade gift. Contact Georgina at events@thegardenshop.ie or see our Events Page.
Other Events
- Sunday November 26, 12 pm: Christmas Wreathing making Workshop – €65
- Saturday December 9: Christmas Themed Afternoon Tea €25, a range of times available at www.thegardenshop.ie/family-afternoon-tea/
- December 1: Post a letter to Santa in his special SOLAS Letterbox – FREE event
- Sunday December 10: Chocolate Making €20, a range of times available
- Christmas Colouring Competition: See www.thegardenshop.ie/colouring-competition/
- Saturday December 16: Children’s Christmas Craft Workshop at www.thegardenshop.ie/christmas-craft-ideas/
- Sunday December 17: Pop-Up Cinema Experience (Classic Christmas Movies) at www.thegardenshop.ie/pop-up-cinema/
Food @ SOLAS
Winter is here and so are our new flavoured coffees: Cinnamon Latte and Gingerbread Latte, both sprinkled with ION oil’s organic Sugar & Spices.
With a hitch of orange peel, hibiscus blossom and cinnamon, these spices are blending perfectly with our locally roasted coffee from Seccoto and locally sourced milk from The Village Dairy.
And if lunch is what you are looking for come and try this weekend only our Pulled pork sambo, served with kimchi slaw and mustard gherkin mayo.
Solas Heated Food Court open daily Monday – Friday 10-4pm and weekend 10-5pm
Plant of the Week: Ilex aquifolium (Holly bush)
This super hardy, glossy evergreen is familiar to most of us, especially at Christmas.
In sun or part shade it’s tough enough for coastal zones, it makes perfect hedging.
Birds love it as it provides cover for nesting and berries in the winter. Pollinators also benefit from the flowers in Summer.
Product of the Week: Christmas Lights & Holly Bushes
Tis The Season to be Jolly, Time to get those Christmas lights up. We have a wide variety of Christmas lights available in Solas.
From Warm white to Bright white, Indoors and Outdoors. We have Battery, Mains, and Solar lights to brighten up your Christmas. Large discounts on some varieties instore now. Ask Staff for details
Don’t forget SOLAS Christmas Sale event is coming Next Thursday, November 30, with 20% off ALL Christmas lights, trees, decorations tableware and more
SOLAS Weather
The weekend weather forecast sees temperatures start to drop at night, but the daytime temperatures quite mild reaching 10 degrees Celsius on Sunday.
Overall we are due a dry weekend with sunny conditions all Friday, somewhat overcast on Sunday. Be sure to warm up with a SOLAS hot chocolate or barista coffee to keep the chill at bay
Join us for a special winter weekend at SOLAS Eco Garden Centre, situated in Portarlington, Co. Laois R32 RPX8.
We extend a warm invitation to visit us daily from 10 am to 6 pm. We can’t wait to welcome you!
SEE ALSO – Check out more from SOLAS here.
