Grand markets to attract over 150,000

More than 150,000 people are expected to throng the Christmas markets on Cork’s Grand Parade and visit festively decorated Bishop Lucey Park before Santa pops down the chimney.

The markets officially opened last night and a Cork City Council spokesman said that following on their success last year this season they are extending their opening times to include the entire week leading up to and including Sunday, Dec 23.

The markets, which include a variety of artisan food producers and crafts, will open at weekends from 8am-10pm and then every day from Dec 13-23.