Christmas tractors to light up Nenagh
Following on from last year's hugely successful event, the spectacular 'Christmas Tractors of Nenagh' parade will return on Saturday, December 21st.
Hosted by the Agricultural Contractors of North Tipperary, this second year might not be the original, but it certainly will be the best! Last year's spectacle was the highlight of Christmas in Nenagh, and a huge crowd was amazed by the lighting extravaganza.
From the 'Flying Snowman' to the 'Reindeer on Lawnmowers', the festively illuminated tractors were a joy to be hold. They're back to herald in this Christmas, with the proceeds raised going to two very worthy causes – farm accident support network Embrace Farm, and the recovery of young Billy Goulding of Shinrone.
As well as the tractor parade, there will be popcorn, candy floss and crepe stalls to add to the atmosphere and enjoyment on the streets of Nenagh. There will also be stalls selling hand-held Christmas lights.
Raffle tickets for three car-loads of timber will be on sale all day outside Supermacs.
There will be live Christmas music from 2pm outside the Bank of Ireland. Mickey and Minnie Mouse will be joined by Disney characters and circus performers on the streets from 2pm.
Mrs Claus will be going looking for Santa through the shops of Nenagh from 4.30pm and will need children to join with her to find him. Then the fire brigade will join us at 5.30pm to transport Santa to meet up with tractors before the parade kicks off at 6pm.
Please note that traffic diversions will be in place on Kenyon Street and Pearse St from 5.30pm to 7pm.
This event is hosted by the Ballycommon Sponsored Ride, a non-for-profit organisation, along with the Agricultural Contractors of North Tipperary. It is widely supported by Nenagh Chamber of Commerce, the local council and businesses to bring families in to the town for this wonderful sight so close to Christmas.
Embrace Farm supports those affected by farming accidents, both fatal and serious injuries. Unfortunately, statistics show that one farmer is killed nearly every two weeks in Ireland with over 290 lives lost in the last 10 years alone. Embrace Farm offers emotional support to families after they very suddenly find their lives changed forever after an accident. It holds an annual remembrance service, residential counselling weekends and support groups.
Practical advice is also offered for families picking up the pieces after such a life changing event. For further information, please go to www.embracefarm.com.
Proceeds from the Christmas Tractors of Nenagh will also go to Billy Goulding's recovery. A heart-aching story, Billy contracted a virus and was left paralysed. The funds raised will go a long way towards helping Billy’s parents, Eileen and Victor, in providing him with much-needed support and care as he grows up.
You can read more about Billy’s story at https://www.facebook.com/shanahangoulding/.
For further information and updates about this year's parade, please visit the Christmas Tractors of Nenagh Facebook page, where you will also find details of competition to win a seat for your child on one of the tractors!