THE first annual Santa Paddle on the Shannon, a new initiative to bring a fairy-lit flotilla along the river to celebrate Christmas on the water takes place on Saturday December 6.
It is hoped the festive new event will be a magical way to shine a light on the beautiful River Shannon while gliding along on the water.
Setting off from 5.15pm on December 6 from the slipway at St Michael’s Rowing Club, the flotilla will be led by the Limerick Dragons, travelling along the Shannon underneath Shannon Bridge and Thomond Bridge, and returning on the same route.
Independent councillor Ursula Gavan, one of the organisers of the Santa Paddle, got the idea after seeing a similar event in Copenhagen and thought it would be great for Limerick.
Cllr Gavan told the Limerick Post that the event acknowledges the importance of the Shannon to all its many users and organisers want to showcase it in a positive light.
“We are a sporting city and have amazing water-based clubs from swimmers, paddlers, kayakers, rowers, and dragons who use the river daily – and our rescue services will be present on the night too,” Cllr Gavan said.
“The idea is to light up our beautiful river and signal the excitement and hope that Christmas brings. However, this event was driven by our very own dragon lady, Vidette Ryan Molyneaux of the LImerick Dragons, who are heavily supporting this event.”
Cllr Maria Donoghue, also involved in organising the inaugural event, expressed her gratitude for the support of Brendan Troy and Craig Power from Limerick City and County Council, and Enda Power from Limerick 2030, for providing free parking at Cleeves from 4pm on the day.
The iconic Cleeves chimney will also light up for the occasion.
“The Hunt Museum are delighted to also get involved and will light up their gardens to celebrate this voyage,” Cllr Donoghue revealed.
All river users are invited to attend with vessels lit up and Santa hats on. The public are also welcome to join on the quays and bridges with lights and Santa hats to view this unique spectacle and help the flotilla on its way.