News

Evergreen investment makes for tree-mendous festive makeover for Mid and East Antrim

Monday 4 November 2024

Mid and East Antrim is set to sparkle like never before this Christmas, as three spectacular artificial Christmas trees prepare to take centre stage in the Borough’s main towns - promising to make this festive season one to remember!

Pictured is Communities Minister, Gordon Lyons MLA with Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Alderman Beth Adger MBE.

The identical 10-metre cone-shaped trees, funded by the Department for Communities, will tower majestically in Ballymena, Carrickfergus and Larne, creating stunning centrepieces for the Borough's seasonal celebrations. Each tree will feature high-output, low-energy warm white LED lights with cool white twinkle effects, complemented by traditional baubles of various sizes.

Communities Minister, Gordon Lyons MLA said, “I am pleased that my Department has been able to support Mid and East Antrim Borough Council with funding for these new Christmas trees. Each will form a striking focal point, helping create vibrant and attractive town centres for visitors and shoppers during the festive season, and supporting local businesses and communities at this special time of year.”

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Alderman Beth Adger MBE, said: “We are delighted to enhance our festive displays with these magnificent artificial Christmas trees. They will create a magical atmosphere in our town centres and provide a wonderful attraction for both locals and visitors during the festive period, ensuring a consistent and high-quality Christmas experience across our Borough.

“The decision to invest in artificial trees comes in response to the increasing challenge of sourcing live trees of suitable size and quality from Northern Ireland. The new artificial trees will ensure consistency across all three town centres while providing a sustainable solution for years to come.”

The new Christmas trees will be located at Market Place Carrickfergus, Broadway Larne & The Braid Ballymena.  They will be unveiled at the following switch-on events:

  • Ballymena: 16 November
  • Larne: 22 November
  • Carrickfergus: 23 November

These events promise to be memorable occasions for families and communities across the Borough, marking the beginning of the festive season with the illumination of these impressive new centrepieces.

The trees will complement the existing seasonal lighting displays throughout the Borough, creating an enchanting Christmas atmosphere that will attract visitors and support local businesses during the seasonal trading period.