Miracle On Church Road

It’s one of the biggest nights of Greystones’ year, and in 2020, naturally, it all went a bit pear-shaped.

The one-hour video spectacular that had been carefully constructed and curated and destined to blow our Christmas socks off just couldn’t quite make it through the technical snow storm last Saturday.

And so the big night became all about love and understanding, as the whole town threw their arms around those who had been busy little elves over the previous weeks, putting together what turns out to be a pretty darn remarkable Christmas video, kids.

With Dustin The Turkey, the Flynnstones, Phelim Drew and – gulp! – Hozier In The Highest all taking part, turns out the all-star, all-sparkling Greystones Christmas Lights 2020 video is very much Happy Pear-shaped.

And the fun has only just begun. There’s also a colouring competition for kids and a photo competition for all the family, as well as Greystones Studio’s Design A Greystones Christmas Card challenge (where you can win real-life elves at your house), two festive storytime readings with Trish from Halfway Up The Stairs, and the magical Mary-Kate Hardy, recreating the 12 Days Of Christmas on shop windows all over town.

So, a big, big shout-out to all those who took part, and, of course, all those Greystones businesses who threw a few shekels into the hat to make Greystones shine this Christmas after such a very dark year for many. Including those Greystones businesses.

Most importantly, a big slap on the back to those behind the scenes who made this wonderful video happen – Gráinne McLoughlin, Marlena Murphy, Michelle Lynch, Orla Finn and all the Greystones 2020 gang, plus the wizard who put it all together, Kyle O’Connell from Irish Film & Television Services.

And thanks also to Wham!, Paul McCartney, Mariah Carey and Shakin’ Stevens for taking part too.

And the late, great Bing Crosby, of course.

Consider yourselves honorary Greystonians. But just for December. We’re full to bursting already.