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Age-old tradition set for Hook Lighthouse this New Year’s Day
Two unique events are set to take place at the oldest intact operating lighthouse in the world this New Year’s Day.
To welcome in the New Year a Sunrise Tour and Food Experience will take place at Hook Lighthouse on January 1st. Visitors will be welcomed with bucks fizz and taken on a bespoke guided tour experience through the medieval tower as over 800 years of history will be brought to life. From the top floor, visitors will get a 360-degree sweeping panorama on the outdoor balcony and take in the views stretching across the Southeast of Ireland. From this magnificent vista, visitors will watch the sunrise on the first day of the year and savour bucks fizz, prosecco, fresh tea, and coffee along with a selection of breakfast canapés made from the finest local produce, including Ballyhack smokehouse smoked salmon on homemade brown bread. Tickets must be booked in advance on hookheritage.ie
Later on New Year’s Day at 1 pm, an age-old tradition takes place on at the 800-year-old Hook Lighthouse in County Wexford as the Dunbrody archers take part in a traditional Arrow ceremony.
The Dunbrody Archers will join the Cathaoirleach of the Municipal District of New Ross Council, Cllr John Fleming, to participate in the Arrow ceremony. This ancient tradition dates back to 1687 when the Mayor and the corporation of New Ross Town Council claimed their authority over the Tower and waters by travelling to the point of the Hook and shooting an arrow into the sea from Hook Head Lighthouse.
On New Year’s Day 2019 the Mayor will cast an arrow into the sea symbolising the Ports authority over the estuary. Members of the public are invited to watch the free historical event at 1 pm.
Commenting on the upcoming event, Ann Waters at Hook Lighthouse said, “This is always an incredible occasion to witness and we are delighted to continue the ancient tradition, right here on the cornerstone of Ireland’s Ancient East.”
Free afternoon entertainment will also be on offer with Captain Hook along with art workshops with resident artist Rose from noon to 4 pm.
Hook is renowned as the oldest intact working lighthouse in the world, from the 5th-century monks lit fires to warn Ships of the treacherous Waters around Hook Head. The Hook Lighthouse tour incorporates 115 steps to the top of the lighthouse tower featuring holograms illustrating the ancient history of the tower and the Hook area and spectacular views of the southern coast.
Hook Lighthouse Visitor Centre and Café closes on December 23rd and re-opens on 26th St Stephen’s Day at 11 am and will remain open throughout the holiday season.
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