Crowds brave the rain as Corkmas brings festive cheer to the city

The festive season got under way in Cork last night as large crowds braved a status yellow rain warning to experience the joy of Corkmas.

This year marked the second annual Corkmas parade, which went ahead despite the wet conditions.

Ahead of the event organisers said poor weather contingencies are built into all outdoor events but added that postponing or rescheduling is not possible due to the scale of the production and the long-standing commitments of performers.

“Rain doesn’t bother Santa on Christmas Eve and it won’t bother him tonight either,” organisers had said, advising attendees to dress for wet weather.

Despite the rain, crowds turned out to see angels, reindeer, and flying bicycles weaving through the streets of Cork City.

Santa Claus was there as well, reminding everyone to get their letters sent on time.

Santa’s sleigh, adorned with giant snowflakes and a Christmas tree, rolled by on a huge float, while a troupe of drummers set off from North Main Street at 7pm to the delight of young and old. Their rhythms set the tone for a colourful, Christmas-themed parade.

The man in red addressed the Lord Mayor Cllr Fergal Dennehy, thanking him for the warm welcome, however Santa's speech was cut short following an appearance from the Grinch.

Along the route, floats were welcomed by large, enthusiastic crowds who clapped and cheered, and pantomime performers from the Everyman added even more smiles to the evening.

The night marked just the beginning of the celebrations, as Corkmas runs until December 31. Ice skating, Christmas markets, craft fairs, light shows, candlelight concerts, and party cruises are among the many events planned.

The Christmas Market and Santa Experience at Emmett Place opens next week, running Thursdays through Sundays.

From November 28, the big Ferris wheel and vintage carousel will take centre stage on Grand Parade.

Among the indoor highlights is Candlelight, a series of Fever-presented concerts at University College Cork’s Aula Maxima, illuminated by thousands of candles.