Traders and residents react to Christmas market plans for Limerick

MAYOR John Moran has received a double boost after two groups – one made up of traders, the other residents - backed his plans for Christmas at The Crescent.

From the middle of this month until the end of 2026, the area of O’Connell Street around the Daniel O’Connell monument will be fenced off if the mayor’s plans get the go-ahead.

A traditional Christmas market is set to be held in the area.

There is sharp division on the proposals, in particular from small retailers in the urban core of the centre, who fear disrupting access to O’Connell Street in their busiest trading period.

While the issue is scheduled to be discussed at a special meeting of Limerick’s metropolitan district on Tuesday next, November 10, support has come from four hospitality traders based in Georgian Limerick.

Patricia Roberts, the owner of No 1 Pery Square hotel, Libby Hickey, owner of South’s Pub, Cian Conroy of Bobby Byrne’s and Paddy Kelly of Charlie Malone’s have all said they would welcome a festive market at the Crescent.

In a statement, the traders said that the area will provide a “special and iconic backdrop” for such an event.

"The Crescent has a long standing history of gatherings and has hosted successful summer events in 2024 and 2026. These events bring much needed footfall to our business by day and night and also indirectly enhance the safety for all to enjoy the outdoor events,” they said.

Ms Roberts said she believes a festive fair will help keep The Crescent area sustainable for years to come.

She pointed to the fact the area was used for the production of the Angela’s Christmas movie, which is a favourite in Irish households over the season.

Meanwhile, a newly-established city centre residents group have also expressed their hope Mayor Moran’s Christmas activations go ahead this year.

"It is an exciting prospect to see Limerick take its place among other historic cities like Prague and London to play host to artisans, craftspeople and performers in celebration of the festive season. We want to welcome visitors from across Limerick and beyond to enjoy our beautiful medieval city, its public spaces, its heritage, and its growing sense of confidence and optimism,” the Limerick City Centre Residents' Voice said in a statement.