Farmers in Kilkenny and Tipperary are raising money for local charities while helping communities celebrate Christmas together.
Agricultural Contractors of North Tipperary is bringing the Christmas spirit to Nenegh on Saturday 21 December. There will be up to 30 tractors, loaders and combine harvesters hitting the streets of Tipperary, fully dressed in Christmas lights.
All proceeds raised will go towards two local charities; EMBRACE farm - a support organisation for those affected by farm accidents - and Billy’s Recovery – a local boy Billy Goulding who is rehabilitating after suffering from a virus at two years old.
Event organiser Albert Purcell told the Irish Farmers Journal: “The whole day will be a family day. We will have a fire brigade coming looking for Santa and they will collect him and bring him to his sleigh at the mart.”
The celebrations on the day will start at 2pm, with circus performers and entertainers. The machinery parade will then start at 5.30pm.
Last year, approximately €18,000 was raised for local charities.
A suicide awareness event will take place this new year’s eve in the form of a truck and tractor run.
‘Light Up The Night’ will take place on Tuesday 31 December from 4pm to 7pm in Ballyragget, Co Kilkenny. This is the fourth successive year of the run, which has raised over €35,000 for local charities that work with mental health issues.
Organisers aim to illuminate the two highest points in north of Kilkenny, namely Spa Hill, Johnstown, and Ballymartin, which both overlook Ballyragget.
According to the organisers: “This is an awareness-raiser, but donations will be accepted by all drivers who wish to participate.”
Registration will take place from 1pm to 3.30pm, with refreshments served before departure at 4pm. Flashing lights on vehicles are encouraged. Hi-vis clothing is also encouraged on the night.
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