On Sunday, November 30th, the LauraLynn campus came alive with festive sparkle as families, staff, and friends gathered for our much-loved Light Up LauraLynn celebration. With twinkling lights, joyful music, and plenty of laughter, the evening marked the start of the Christmas season in true LauraLynn style.
Our host Ray D’Arcy once again brought warmth and energy to the day, greeting families and guests and setting the stage for an afternoon filled with Christmas cheer.
Music and Activities
The grounds rang out with carols and Christmas tunes performed by the Hollypark Girls School Choir, the Kilmacud Crokes Choir, and the LauraLynn Choir. Their voices set the tone for a beautiful and meaningful Christmas afternoon.
Activity coordinators Mags and Niamh ran activities in the Arts and Crafts Tent with someone to suit all ages and abilities. The new Interactive Music Tent with music therapist Katerina went down a treat where everyone could join in with the performances. The magical Sensory Winter Wonderland once again provided a calm space for children and families to relax. Santa was busy in his grotto meeting families, while the Sensory Bus, Gaming Bus and Army with their trucks and tanks, are always a hit.
Festive Flavours
Guests enjoyed a feast of seasonal treats, from posh dogs by Barry and the Aramark team, tacos from Taco Man, and crepes from Crepe Box, to the indulgent new addition of chocolate-dipped strawberries from Dipped. Starbucks and Aramark kept everyone cosy with hot drinks, while The Lep Inn provided sweets and refreshments.
A Time to Reflect
A moving moment of remembrance was led by Breffni McGuinness, our Bereavement Coordinator, who invited everyone to pause and honour loved ones. This reflection brought depth and meaning to the celebration, reminding us of the importance of memory and connection.
The Light Up Moment
As darkness fell, anticipation built for the highlight of the evening. The O’Keeffe family, joined by singer Lyra, pressed the button to turn on the Christmas Lights in memory of their beloved son and brother, Conor. The lights shone brightly, followed by LauraLynn’s first-ever laser show, which lit up the night sky and entertained the crowd.
Lyra returned to the stage with her powerful voice and captivating presence. Her performance carried the audience through moments of joy, reflection, and celebration, and her final song brought the event to a close on a high note, leaving everyone uplifted.
Thank you to everyone who made this day possible:
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Ray D’Arcy, for his warmth and energy as MC
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The O’Keeffe family, for leading the Light Up Moment in memory of Conor
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Lyra, for her breathtaking performance and support
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Breffni McGuinness, for guiding the moment of reflection
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The choirs, Hollypark Girls School Choir, Kilmacud Crokes Choir, and the LauraLynn Choir, for filling the evening with music
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The members of the Irish Defence Forces who are always so generour with their time coming to LauraLynn events
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Our dedicated LauraLynn staff and volunteers for making the day possible
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Our partners at Verve, The Live Agency, for their continued support
And most of all, thank you to our wonderful LauraLynn children and families. Your presence makes Light Up LauraLynn truly magical.
With lights shining, voices raised, and hearts full of joy, Christmas officially began at LauraLynn.
