Credit: Chronicle.lu
On Sunday 11 December 2022, the Irish Club of Luxembourg held its traditional Children's Christmas Party at the Black Stuff in Luxembourg-Hamm.
Around 80 children attended the event, along with parents and grandparents, from the Irish community, as well as children of other nationalities; the Irish Club had also reached out to LUkraine asbl, inviting children of refugee families to also attend.
Santa Claus welcomed, and spoke with, each child in turn, asking if they had sent him a letter yet, and presenting them with chocolate gifts and a drink. The children and family members then enjoyed party food including cakes, sweets and fruit.
For many children, the Irish Club's Santa's Grotto has become an essential part of the run-up to Christmas in the Grand Duchy, with many dressing up for the occasion including in Christmas jumpers. For others, it was their first time visiting Santa, with some singing songs to him that they had practised beforehand.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Irish Club's Children's Christmas Party evolved to a Santa's Grotto, and was held (within the confines of health restrictions) in both 2020 and 2021, with those attending being allocated specific time slots so as to avoid queues and people congregating. That approach formed the basis of this year's event too, enabling the large numbers to enjoy the event in a safe environment.
Most children attending - there were a couple overawed by the occasion - were delighted to see Santa and to talk with him, telling him what they wanted for Christmas.
Cactus sponsored the event as they had done in previous years.
