Last weekend of the Summer in Tramore
Tramore enjoyed the last weekend of the summer, a final hurrah before the schools start back and the nights creep in.
Tramore enjoyed the last weekend of the summer, a final hurrah before the schools start back and the nights creep in.
By the seaside, locals and visitors strolled along the beach, making use of the last of the summer rays.
Before the madness of the season ended, Waterford News & Star took a trip to Tramore for a wander.
Across the Prom, cafés, shops and stalls were getting ready for a hectic weekend.
Friends gathered together to take in the sunshine and sea air.
At Brooklyn coffee, staff were cautiously looking forward to the last few days of August, saying: "We would get a lot of visitors, especially from Carrick, Kilkenny and thereabouts. It can get really busy."
Over at a nearby kiosk, another staffer commented gleefully: "I organised my days so that I'm off this weekend!"
Tramore Amusement and Leisure Park held their annual Euro Day on Saturday and Sunday, with every ride and attraction costing the grand total of €1.
Park manager Michael Garland was delighted with the crowds over the busy weekend.
He said: "I think we issued only three sticky plasters over the whole weekend, which is a sign of a very well organised weekend."
According to Michael, thousands of people came to Tramore over the weekend, and quickly filled up the carparks and created a tailback of nearly two miles.
He said: "I think we had in the region of around 20,000 people on Saturday, the weather was exceptional, and about 17,000, 18,000 people on the Sunday.
"We finished up at around 10pm on Saturday, and 9pm on Sunday, because school was starting the next morning."
The weekend ended with a fireworks spectacular on the Sunday evening, marking a dramatic ending to the summer for the Park and all of Tramore.
Michael ended: "We were happy to be a part of it and to do our bit for Tramore."
Lafcadio Hearn Japanese Gardens also enjoyed a busy summer.
According to manager Janet, during the year the centre welcomed visitors from 65 countries.
The centre is expected to reach 40,000 visitors by the end of 2024.
Visitors from Japan have complimented the gardens for their authenticity.
Despite the great summer, there are reoccurring issues in local tourism.
As Janet said: "There is a shortage of accommodation around."
With the summer at an end, Janet et al are looking forward to the future, especially the spooky 'Spirits of Halloween' walk in the woodlands.
