Author: Padraic Guilfoyle

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Richard Canny

There are plenty of traditions that many people hold dear around Christmas time but it’s fair to say that Dorothy Shannon’s annual event involving free Christmas dinners at her Boyle café for those in need of some company would warm the cockles of everyone’s heart. 

For the sixth year, Dorothy will be transforming her King House Tea Rooms into a place where people can avail of a Christmas dinner free of charge in a friendly, music-filled atmosphere.

The pandemic got in the way in 2020 and 2021 but Dorothy revived her free festive dinners in 2022. It has become a very special day at Christmas where she and her staff are happy to give up their time to make sure that those feeling lonely or living in isolation enjoy the spirit of the season.

This year’s event take places on Sunday, December 22nd from 1-5 p.m.. As is the case every year, Dorothy is very grateful that she can continue to open her doors for this event with the support of suppliers. donations, and not least, her work colleagues.

She and her staff always enjoy these memorable occasions where they and local musicians can spread some Christmas joy for people who might appreciate it the most.

“I look forward to it every year, there’s always a good atmosphere and everyone is in good form. There’s so much made of Christmas and for a lot of people, they’d rather it just came and went and no fuss.

“A lot of my customers would be older so it’s also about giving something back,” explained Dorothy, who also outlined that any monetary donations left over would be given to St. Vincent de Paul.

On the menu again this year will be a full Christmas dinner comprising a starter, main course, dessert and tea or coffee.

Contact Dorothy on (087) 6430326 for more details.