Christmas magic returns with festive events across Fermanagh and Omagh

Fermanagh and Omagh District Council has announced a packed programme of festive events to celebrate the Christmas season across the district.

The countdown to Christmas begins with the Christmas Lights Switch-On Events in Enniskillen and Omagh Town Centre on Saturday, November 21.

Visitors can enjoy a full day of seasonal entertainment including brass bands, carol singing, festive characters, and arts and crafts.

Local performers will then take to the stage at Omagh Courthouse and The Diamond, Enniskillen, with entertainment starting from 1pm. The main switch-on celebrations begin at 4.30pm, leading up to the official lighting of the Christmas displays at 5.30pm.

Chairwoman of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor Debbie Coyle, said she is delighted that council is once again offering a wide-ranging programme of festive events and activities across the district, from the Christmas Lights Switch-On celebrations and seasonal outdoor music performances to family-friendly workshops, markets and festive experiences.

“There are plenty of opportunities for residents and visitors of all ages to enjoy the Christmas season.

“We are also pleased to welcome performances from Willowbridge School, Enniskillen, and Arvalee School and Resource Centre Omagh, whose talent and enthusiasm will help create a wonderful festive atmosphere at our Christmas Lights Switch-On events. Their contributions will reflect the spirit of community and celebration that is at the heart of Christmas, and we are delighted to provide an opportunity to showcase local talent.

“The Christmas Lights Switch-On heralds the start of the festive season in both Omagh and Enniskillen. I encourage everyone to shop local in our towns and villages this Christmas. By supporting local businesses, we can help sustain a vibrant and prosperous local economy while enjoying all that our District has to offer.”

A wide range of festive activities and entertainment will be on offer across council venues. At Marble Arch Caves, visitors can enjoy Christmas Willow Weaving, the Elf Escape Sensory Space, Mrs Claus's Cottage, Carols in the Cave and extended festive Guided Cave Tours.

Strule Arts Centre will host a variety of seasonal workshops, including Christmas decoration, wreath-making and Christmas Angel workshops, while Enniskillen Castle will offer festive activities and seasonal markets for adults and children. Christmas art workshops will also take place at Strule Arts Centre and Ardhowen Theatre.

Festive entertainment will also be available at both Ardhowen Theatre and Strule Arts Centre, with seasonal shows ideal for a festive get-together or Christmas night out. Highlights include Christmas Country with The Stars and the Caritas Choir Christmas Concert at the Ardhowen Theatre.

Omagh Christmas Lights Switch-On is being supported by the Department for Communities and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive’s ‘Housing for All’ Shared Housing Programme. Arbour and Radius Housing are delighted to support this event. Through the Omagh Advisory Group, members help shape inclusive activities that reflect and respond to local community needs. Their ongoing commitment encourages participation, strengthens community relationships and supports the aims of the Housing for All Shared Housing Programme in building a more connected and cohesive community.

The Shared Housing Programme originated from the Northern Ireland Executive’s Together: Building a United Community Strategy, which aims to improve community relations and foster a more united and shared society.