WATCH: Mayor and hurling star switch on the Christmas lights in Ennis

THE FESTIVE season in Ennis was launched with plenty of Christmas cheer this Thursday night, with the switching on of the Christmas lights.

It was a cold but clear night as the crowds filled the Abbey Street car park to kick of Christmas in great style in the Clare town.

Socks in the Frying Pan got the party underway at 5pm, playing a festive mix of trad and Christmas tunes, with MC Colum McGrath popping onstage periodically to update the crowds on Santa Claus's arrival.

The launch of the Remembrance Tree in aid of Cahercalla Community Care was held, just before the big man himself rolled in not on a sleigh but a big green bus.

Santa was accompanied by Clare's All-Star hurling hero Shane O'Donnell, who did the switching-on honours alongside Mayor of Ennis Pat Daly.

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