WATCH: Tears of joy at Shannon Airport as families reunited for Christmas

THE SOUND of Christmas Carols echoed throughout the Arrivals Hall in Shannon Airport as teary-eyed family members were reunited for the Christmas period.

People travelling from Perth, Chicago, London and all over the world were reunited with their loved ones this Thursday afternoon in Shannon Airport.

Hayley from Perth and David Burke originally from Murroe travelled home to visit their David's family, bringing with them baby Tadhg, who met his grandparents Richard and Nora for the first time.

All this week Shannon Airport has been geared up and ready to spread festive cheer for airport passengers and visitors collecting loved ones at the airport in the days leading up to Christmas.

The festivities commenced on Tuesday, as the Thomond Primary School choir from Ballynanty, took the stage in the airport.

Festive entertainment continued on Wednesday, with St John's National School choir from Shannon delivering a performance of festive carols and favourite Christmas songs, and this Thursday, featured St Senan's National School from Shannon captivating the audience with their performances of Christmas carols and Irish dancing.

Tomorrow, Friday, visitors can enjoy a live set of festive tunes by singer Chloe Griffin from Nenagh, Co. Tipperary from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm.

The entertainment programme culminates on Saturday, with a special performance by the renowned Shannon Gospel Choir from 11:20 am to 12:45 pm.

In addition to the captivating performances, Shannon Airport staff are dedicated to providing a warm welcome to the 121,000 passengers arriving from around the world during the Christmas season. The halls have been decked and the airport terminal adorned with festive decorations, including a magnificent 12-foot tree in the arrivals hall and a life-size Santa sleigh for memorable photo opportunities.

Members of the public are welcome to come to the airport and immerse themselves in the Christmas spirit, and perhaps enjoy a festive hot chocolate at JJ Ruddles café. While at the airport, visitors can take the opportunity to explore the airport's Aviation Museum in the arrivals hall, home to one of the world's largest collections of diecast model aircraft, and free to access.

To add a touch of Christmas magic, travellers heading abroad over the festive season can participate in a special giveaway courtesy of Shannon Airport. Passengers are encouraged to nominate a loved one by leaving a wish for them on a dedicated Christmas tree in the airport transit lounge, with a prize draw scheduled for Saturday, December 23.

And for anyone wishing for a summer holiday in 2024, the airport’s partners at FlyShannon.ie have just launched a 'Kids Fly Free' promotion, offering a free child place to the value of €300 when you book your family summer holiday on flyshannon.ie. But hurry, offer ends on Thursday, December 21!