15 Interesting Facts About Christmas in Ireland

Introduction:

When people think of Christmas, the first image that comes to mind is usually a wintry scene of snow, a Christmas tree, and Santa Claus with his reindeer in tow. But around the world, the traditions of the holiday season look differently based on where you are. In Ireland, Christmas takes a unique twist as it combines elements from the Irish culture into its celebration. Here are 15 interesting facts about Christmas in Ireland!

Fact 1: Ireland Has One of the Longest Christmas Seasons

Unlike many countries around the world, the Irish Christmas season extends from December 8th to January 6th. This season is known as the “Twelve Days of Christmas”, and the Irish take these twelve days very seriously. During this time, people get enough time to overindulge in traditional Christmas activities. The days culminate with a bang on January 6th, which is known as Little Christmas. During this festive day, people gather together to enjoy a big meal and exchange of gifts.

Fact 2: Christmas Trees Can Be Artificial-Free

The Irish are known for their environmentally-friendly policies, and Christmas is no exception. Many Irish households opt for artificial-free Christmas trees, using a natural “holly bush” instead. This tradition dates back to the 1700s, when Irish families would bring home a holly bush and dress it up with ribbons and trinkets. To this day, holly bush decorations are a beloved Christmas tradition in Ireland.

Fact 3: Ireland Boasts a Unique Santa Claus

Santa Claus is an integral part of the Christmas celebrations in most countries. But in Ireland, his look is slightly different. The Irish Santa Claus, or as they call him, “Santa Iorras” wears a long green coat and carries a sack of presents on his back. He also carries a sign that reads, ‘God Bless All’.

Fact 4: Ireland Has a Unique Way of Wishing One Another a Merry Christmas

The Irish have an expression for wishing one another a joyous holiday season. This expression is called the Gaelic Christmas phrase “Nollaig Shona Dhuit”, which translates to “A Merry Christmas to You”. The phrase is said to bring good luck and fortune throughout the New Year.

Fact 5: December 8th is St Nicholas Day

December 8th is a special holiday in Ireland, as it’s the day when St. Nicholas, a patron saint of children, visits homes. On this day, children put out their best shoes in the hopes that St. Nicholas will come to fill it with sweets and treats. Of course, it’s all a secret, and parents must pretend they know nothing about the magical visit.

Fact 6: The Irish Have Specific Foods for Christmas

During the festive season, Irish traditions include some very special and unique dishes. This includes an old-time favorite called boiled bacon with cabbage, which is served with potatoes. A typical dinner could include turkey or ham with dried fruits, and traditionally served with a side of mashed potatoes, roast carrots, and parsnips.

Fact 7: St Stephen’s Day is a Major Holiday

St. Stephen’s day, which falls on the day after Christmas, is a major public holiday in Ireland. On the day, people can take part in a variety of activities, including horse riding races, parades, and other activities. The most famous activity, however, is the traditional “hunting of the wren”. This involves dressing up as a wren and parading through the village.

Fact 8: The Irish Play an Ancient Christmas Music Instrument

Another unique aspect of Irish Christmas celebrations is the music. The Uilleann pipes, also known as the Irish Pipes, are a type of unique bagpipe that is only native to Ireland. These pipes have been used in Christmas celebrations for centuries, and they create a unique ambient sound that resonates with the traditional carols.

Fact 9: Irish Christmas Symbols Have Interesting Origins

The symbols associated with Christmas in Ireland have unique origins. For example, the candle on the Christmas tree is said to represent the star that guided the three wise men to Jesus’ birthplace. The mistletoe is also said to be the twig that saved Christianity by binding the hands of a Viking invader.

Fact 10: The Irish Enjoy a Unique Christmas Day Tradition

The Irish also have a unique tradition that is followed on Christmas Day. This is the “Twelve Pubs of Christmas” where people go on a pub crawl and visit twelve pubs in total. At each pub, they often have to perform a task, such as singing a carol or drinking a shot of whiskey.

Fact 11: The Carollers are a Part of Irish Christmas

The Irish also have a unique practice involving carollers and a custom called ” Showing the Sheaf”. This involves visiting family and friends in the area and knocking on their doors to sing a carol. Afterwards, they receive gifts or treats from their hosts in return.

Fact 12: The Irish Bred a Special Christmas Pig

The Irish also have a unique breed of pig called the “Christmas Pig”. It is usually black and white in color, and it is thought to bring good luck. According to legend, the pig brings joy and plenty at the dinner table.

Fact 13: Christmas lights have Special Meaning in Ireland

There is an old Irish belief that decorating houses with Christmas lights brings luck and wealth. This tradition has evolved, with houses now being decorated with colored lights and other decorations. Some streets in Ireland even take part in a Competition of Lights, where streets battle against each other to have the best-lit houses.

Fact 14: Fireworks Are Banned During Christmas

Even though fireworks are usually associated with Christmas celebrations, they are banned in Ireland due to safety reasons. A popular pastime during this period is to go caroling through the streets and enjoy the firework displays of neighboring towns.

Fact 15: Christmas Day is the Biggest Event in Ireland

Christmas Day is by far the biggest event in Ireland. Celebrations start early in the day and go on until midnight. Many families hold large gatherings with traditional music and dancing, while others go for a drive in the countryside to take in the breathtaking views.

Conclusion

Christmas in Ireland is a special time filled with unique customs and activities. From the Twelve Days of Christmas to Showing the Sheaf, Ireland has many unique and interesting traditions that make it a special place to celebrate this festive holiday. Whether you’re Irish or not, spending Christmas in Ireland is sure to be a memorable experience.