Just 12 days to get knitting for Christmas jumper record bid

Dubliners plan to sew up a new record with the 'Geansai Nollaig' charity challenge.

Woolie reindeers, snuggly Santas and cheesy Christmas tree designs will all be unleashed on O'Connell Street on Sunday, November 24, at 4.30pm.

Participants are looking to better the record of 583 jumpers set in Dublin two years ago when funds were raised for children's hospitals in the city.

This winter woolie invasion fundraiser is just one of many events being promoted by the 'Dublin At Christmas' initiative which is highlighting the city centre as a truly special place in the coming festive weeks.

CELEBRATIONS

The DublinatChristmas.ie website is a one-stop shop to promote festivities including shopping, eateries, family events, celebrations and New Year's Eve in Dublin.

Shoppers can celebrate the start of Christmas beneath a festive glow when Dublin City Business Improvement District and Dublin City Council bring more than 30 streets alive with Christmas lights.

Key dates listed include:

* Thursday, Nov 14 – Switching on Grafton Street and Dublin's Creative Quarter Christmas lights;

* Sunday, Nov 17 – Switching on Henry Street and North Earl Street Christmas lights; and

* Sunday, Nov 24 – Switching on O'Connell Street Christmas tree lights by Lord Mayor Oisin Quinn along with the Geansai Nollaig 2013 world record breaking challenge.

Back by popular demand this year is 'Shop and Drop' when city centre shoppers can avail of a free bag minding service from November 21 to December 30 in locations north and south of the city.

THE WOOLTIDE SPIRIT: SEE PAGE 30