The lights will go on in the "big house" at 4pm today when the interior of Duckett's Grove (above), a magificent gothic ruin near Carlow, is illuminated to launch a two-day Christmas Craft and Food Fair.
The fair will be held in the courtyard of the house, which was acquired, along with its walled gardens and lawns, by Carlow Co Council three years ago. A 20ft tall Christmas tree, a nativity scene, and a guest appearance from Santa will set the mood. Carlow musicians will also perform seasonal favourites over the two days of the fair, which runs from 2pm to 6pm today and tomorrow. When you've filled your stockings with gifts from the craft fair, you can enjoy a glass of mulled wine or apple juice with a hot mince pie. Christmas cakes, breads, puddings, tarts, jams and relishes will also be on sale. There are signposts for Duckett's Grove walled gardens and pleasure grounds, on both the Dublin and the Kilkenny approach roads to Carlow town. See www.carlowtourism.com.