Viral ad ‘reminder a pub is for life, not just for Xmas’
Charlie’s Bar in Enniskillen, Co Fermanagh published the advert last week (Friday 24 November).
The video, which has racked up millions of views on social media, shows a bereaved man laying flowers and paying his respects to a loved one before he walks through the town, seemingly being blanked by passers-by.
The man then enters Charlie’s Bar at the same time as two other guests and their dog before the man is served by a member of staff.
The dog joins the man followed by the couple and the group are shown enjoying their drinks together.
Warm welcome
The video ends with the WB Yeats quote ‘There are no strangers here, only friends you haven’t met yet’.
The post on social media mentioned the same quote and added: “Christmas can be such a joyful time for some and painfully hard for others.
“One thing [is] for sure – you’ll always received a warm welcome when you walk through our doors.
“We will be open on Christmas Day so if you are alone this festive season, drop in for a chat.”
Civic pride
PubAid co-founder Des O-Flanagan said the huge response to the advert served as a powerful reminder of the profound impact local pubs have on communities.
He added: “It reflects an unwavering sense of civic pride and recognition of the influential role played by our local pubs.
“While this advert particularly resonates during the festive season, it serves as a reminder that pubs continue to be the heart and family for many throughout the year in local communities. A pub is for life, not just for Christmas.”
Furthermore, the trade body representing pubs in Northern Ireland, said the video was “impossible to watch without a tear in your eye”.
Impossible to watch without a tear in your eye ❤️ https://t.co/7nGbYIpxCX
— HOSPITALITY ULSTER (@HospUlster) November 26, 2023
