On Saturday 7 December, President Michael D. Higgins switched on the Christmas tree lights at Áras an Uachtaráin.
Each year, the President and Sabina Higgins welcome families to Áras an Uachtaráin, to be present for the official switching on of the Christmas lights.
Since his inauguration, President Higgins has made a determined effort to open Áras an Uachtaráin to members of the public, and he has invited countless people and organisations that work on initiatives to promote social change, inclusion and practical solidarity to visit the house and surrounding gardens.
