Gaeltacht Mhúscraí initiative, Margadh na Nollaig, showcase ICH products online this Christmas

In Ireland, like in many countries at this time of year, Christmas markets are a common sight. In Gaeltacht Mhúscraí these markets give local producers, artisans and artists the opportunity to advertise and sell their products to a wider audience who are looking for unique gifts. However, due to Covid-19 restrictions many of these markets have been unable to take place this year, leaving many local traders without a platform to sell their handmade products.

To prevent the loss of this wonderful tradition and encourage people to support local, Comharchumann Forbartha Mhúscraí (local community co-operative) have launched a new initiative, which has bought an Margadh na Nollaig ar líne (the Christmas market online). The website showcases the products of ICH providers from the Gaeltacht Mhúscraí region including local musicians, food producers, artists, photographers and crafts people.

Manager of Comharchumann Forbartha Mhúscraí, Caroline Ní Nualláin has stated that,  “Tuigeann  pobal na háite, agus pobal na tíre cé chomh tábhachtach is atá sé seasamh taobh le taobh le na gnólachtaí áitiúla i mbliana, ach anuas air sin is údar broid é go bhfuil tairgí álainn sa cheantar, lámh dánta, agus saothair éalaíne den chéad scoth”. (The local community and the country understand how important it is to stand side by side with local businesses this year and they are proud to have such beautiful, handmade and top class products in the area.)

View the Christmas Market online: www.muscrai.org/siopadoireacht/