The Christmas market will feature more than 40 local businesses from across the Fermanagh and Omagh Council District.
A festive Christmas market is opening in Fermanagh this week, featuring over 40 local businesses.
Bringing some festive cheer to the Northern Irish town, the market will run from 25 to 27 November, from 11 am to 3 pm, at Enniskillen Castle.
Fermanagh Virtual Market and Craft Fair organised the event, which is sure to be a hit with locals.
The inspiration behind the event – bringing the virtual market to life
The Christmas market opening Fermanagh this week was inspired by a Facebook group set up in 2020.
Michelle McGee from Belleek set up the group, called Fermanagh Virtual Christmas Market, in October 2020 to support small local businesses suffering from a loss of trade.
However, it wasn’t until September this year that plans were set in motion to bring the virtual market to life.
Now, three months on, the highly anticipated Christmas market is opening in Fermanagh this week.
Adapting to virtual business models – learning new skills
Over 40 local businesses from all across the Fermanagh and Omagh Council Districts are coming together to bring to life this fun, festive experience.
Rosie Keaney, sister of Michelle, spoke to the Impartial Reporter about the upcoming market.
She said, “My sister, Michelle McGee, had established a virtual group – Fermanagh Virtual Christmas Market – in October 2020, on Facebook during the lockdown to help support local small businesses.
“It has been running from strength to strength, with 44 local businesses involved. Here, we share information about our products. ”
She explained that the group is also used to provide support and tips to businesses trying to adapt. She said, “The small businesses have adopted to change by learning new skills.”
Something for everyone – lots of small local businesses
The festive Christmas market is opening in Fermanagh on Thursday and will run through the weekend, finishing on Saturday.
Rosie explained that the huge success of the Christmas market in Belfast inspired her to bring the event in Enniskillen to life.
She said, “Belfast have a successful Christmas market, so why can’t Enniskillen?
“I had arranged with the Castle to deliver a three-day event this year and to bring some Christmas magic to our native town.”
Rosie’s family have always been heavily involved in local business in the Fermanagh area. Previously, they have worked alongside the likes of Toddle In and Castle Island.
Thus, she knows the importance of events such as theses to ensure the survival of small, local businesses.
What to expect – bespoke crafts, designers, artists, and more
Over 40 local businesses have confirmed their involvement in the Fermanagh Christmas market. So, there is sure to be something for everyone.
There will be plenty to discover. From bespoke craft items created by local artists and designers to handmade vegan products made using naturally derived ingredients.
Rosie told the Impartial Reporter, “There are a wide range of businesses involved, ranging from holistic therapies to clothing, jewellery, skincare, and handmade crafts.
“This is an opportunity for us to showcase our beautiful county and build on this each year.
“The vision is to have an outdoor event next year in the lead up to Christmas to encourage the community to buy local and further enhance tourism in the area.”
