​Beloved Newry Christmas charity fundraiser to conclude after 27 years

Since its launch in December 1999, the event has become a cherished part of the Christmas calendar in Newry, helping families during the festive season through the generosity of volunteers, donors, local businesses, and supporters. Over the years, thousands of children and families have benefited from donations and acts of kindness made possible by the initiative and the wider community.

A spokesperson said: “A particularly special note of thanks is owed to the Canal Court Hotel, which hosted the event throughout its 26-year history, both in its earlier lunchtime format and later as the annual evening dinner.

“The McParland family, Louise Young, hotel management and staff consistently provided exceptional support, helping to create an atmosphere of warmth, generosity and festive spirit that became synonymous with the event itself. Their commitment and partnership over more than two decades played a central role in the success of the appeal and the countless lives it touched.”

Over the years, the Newry Business Christmas Charity Dinner and Toy Mountain Appeal welcomed an extraordinary range of distinguished guests and supporters, reflecting the esteem in which the event was held.

These included former President of Ireland Mary McAleese, Taoisigh including Bertie Ahern, Secretaries of State, ambassadors and civic leaders, alongside sporting and entertainment figures such as Nadine Coyle, former NFL player Jason Bell, rugby legend Rory Best and All- Ireland winning manager Jim Gavin.

The event was also honoured by the support of the late Dan Rooney, former United States Ambassador to Ireland, and Jean Kennedy Smith, former United States Ambassador to Ireland and sister of President John F. Kennedy.

Their presence over the years recognised the event as a leading example of cross-community cooperation and partnership between the civic, business and charitable sectors, united in the true spirit of Christmas.

The spokesperson continued: “The decision to bring the event to a close follows long and careful reflection and has not been an easy decision to take. Whilst the event itself will not continue, we are immensely proud of the difference it has made and the lasting memories it has created for so many families.

“We never imagined when we started back in 1999 that the event would grow into something that touched so many lives. The support from our business community has been simply incredible, and we are deeply grateful to every volunteer, donor, corporate sponsor, and supporter who helped make Christmas brighter for local families year after year.

“We believe that the model of the event has gradually become less suited to the changing needs of modern families and charities. In particular, the toy donation element has become increasingly difficult to fulfil in an era where children's needs and circumstances are more diverse than ever before.

“The team also recognises that many families now require support that extends beyond toys at Christmas, with food, fuel, clothing, and other essential household needs often taking priority during this time.”

Throughout its history, the Newry Business Christmas Charity Dinner and Toy Mountain Appeal has: supported deserving local children and families during the festive season; distributed thousands of toys to those in need, brought together volunteers, community groups, and businesses in the spirit of giving, created lasting Christmas memories for families across the community, raised more than £2.1 million for local charitable causes, and supported over 64 local charities across the Greater Newry area.

Each year, the event at the Canal Court Hotel was filled with music, energy, and festive magic. The evening was supported by the dedication of Santa's elves from St Joseph's Primary School, local school choirs and bands, and a host of volunteers whose contributions helped make the event such a success. Their enthusiasm, commitment, and generosity played an invaluable role in creating a truly special occasion for the community.

The spokesperson concluded: “A special acknowledgement is also extended to our 2025 corporate sponsors, whose continued support has been instrumental over the years. They included Rathbane Group, CCL, SAICA, Kingsbridge Healthcare, Fiveways, Canal Court Hotel, Newry BID, O'Reilly's Wholesale, Killowen Contracts, FS Wheels, JMK Solicitors, DXF Engineering, Hughes Camlough, and Surefreight.

“As we close this chapter, we want to celebrate everything that has been achieved together. And

the kindness shown by our community has been extraordinary.

“Most of all, we thank the people of Newry and the surrounding area for helping us demonstrate the very best of community spirit. For 26 years, this initiative brought together businesses, schools, charities, volunteers, public representatives and families from all backgrounds with a shared purpose: ensuring that others experienced the joy and dignity of Christmas.

“That spirit of generosity, compassion and community will remain the lasting legacy of the Newry Business Christmas Charity Dinner and Toy Mountain Appeal.

“We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to every single person who contributed to the event's success over the past 27 years, whether it was buying a raffle ticket, attended the dinner, volunteered, donated a toy, performers, sponsors, and the many families who have been part of its journey.

“This is the end of an amazing achievement that touched the hearts of thousands of people over the years. For 26 years, the Newry Business Christmas Charity Dinner and Toy Mountain Appeal brought people together in the true spirit of Christmas, providing hope, support and joy to those who needed it most. As this chapter closes, it deserves to be recognised with the respect and appreciation that such a remarkable community effort has earned."