In pictures: Women’s Collective Ireland-Donegal celebration at the Bluestack Centre

Women’s Collective Ireland-Donegal launched its 2026 programme of activities with a joyful New Year Celebration Lunch held at the Bluestack Centre in Drimarone. Please click on the arrows to go through the gallery

In the pictures, Danielle Bonner WCI-Donegal Coordinator, Mrs Claus, Rhona Hannigan WCI-Donegal Development Worker and RoseMary Ward Bluestack Centre Manager

The event was a collaborative effort between the two community organisations and was inspired by Nollaig na mBan (Women’s Little Christmas), traditionally celebrated on January 6. Due to adverse weather conditions, the original date was postponed, and the celebration took place on Thursday,  January 22.

A total of 66 women attended the event, and the feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Many described the afternoon as deeply meaningful, a warm, inclusive, and uplifting space where women could come together to enjoy good food, music, laughter, and connection. Participants spoke of feeling welcomed and valued, with new friendships formed and old connections renewed.

“The celebration was a beautiful reflection of community spirit, empowerment, and belonging,” said Danielle Bonner, Project Coordinator at WCI Donegal.

This sentiment was echoed in the words of the women who attended: “A beautiful event of women coming together to enjoy good food, conversation, and music.”

“I really enjoyed the afternoon. The food was lovely, and the staff were very friendly and helpful. I really enjoyed Mrs Claus, I felt like a child again getting a present. The positive affirmations on the makeup bag are lovely and inspirational. It was obvious that a lot of work went into creating such a magical afternoon.”

“It was a perfectly planned afternoon, food, company, singing, and then Mrs Santa arrived with a present for everyone. A beautiful gift I will treasure. Thank you to all who were involved in creating such a wonderful memory.”

“It was such a wonderful, fun day and a real celebration of women. The time, dedication, and attention to detail were evident throughout. I met some lovely ladies, and we’ve already exchanged numbers and plan to meet again. This event was a great example of empowerment, participation, and social inclusion in action.”

“Fantastic! Myself and Mam had a great day of fun, food, and frolics, not to mention the music and dancing!”

“I thoroughly enjoyed a brilliant, welcoming event celebrating women involved in Women’s Collective Donegal courses and the amazing community workers in South Donegal.”

The group would like to send a heartfelt thank you to Geraldine Thomas and Grace O’Callaghan for getting everyone on their feet for some fun dancing, to Bernie Canney for leading a joyful sing-along, and to Caroline Breslin for helping bring Mrs Claus to Donegal for the day. Their time, energy, and generosity helped create such a lively and welcoming atmosphere.

Women’s Collective Ireland-Donegal would also like to sincerely thank the local businesses and community members who generously donated prizes for the event raffle. Their support is greatly appreciated. Donations were kindly received from Harvey’s Point Hotel, Allcare Pharmacy (Donegal Town), Christina Irwin Photography, Hanna Hats, The Blueberry Tearoom, Magee’s Store, Barnesmore Wellness, Changing Tides Studio, Bluestack Centre Hostel, and Cora Boyle. A special mention also goes to Antoinette, who generously donated her Mr Bear raffle prize to the Little Blue Heroes Foundation.

They would also like to thank RoseMary Ward and all the staff at the Bluestack Centre for ensuring the day ran smoothly and for extending such a warm community welcome to everyone who attended.

The organisers also wish to extend a heartfelt thank you to all the women who joined on the day. 

A spokesperson said: “Seeing so many incredible women come together, sharing warmth, joy, and connection, reminded us why celebrating women and community matters so much.”

Women’s Collective Ireland-Donegal is a grassroots community development project and one of 17 Women’s Collective Ireland projects supporting women’s equality and human rights nationwide. Throughout 2026, we will be offering a range of activities, workshops, and courses for women across Donegal.

If you would like to stay informed about future activities, please email your name and area to donegal@womenscollective.ie

.