With the 12 Pubs in swing just before Christmas, this got us thinking about all those Christmas traditions that we still see and others that we think should make a comeback. Here are seven of the nicest Christmas traditions.
1. The Candle in the Window
One of the oldest Irish traditions, candles are placed in the window to let Joseph and Mary know that they can call in if they are looking for shelter. Nowadays, people still keep the candle in the window to let those who are out on the road know that they can stop there for food and shelter.
2. The Unlatched Door
A similar tradition to the candle in the window, in old Ireland, it was customary to leave bread and beer on the table with the door unlatched so Joseph and Mary could come in and help themselves if they needed.
3. Midnight Mass
Let’s be fair, even if you are not very religious, you need to attend Midnight Mass every year. Now, don’t get us wrong, it’s never at Midnight, it’s always at 10pm but it’s an important time to catch up with friends and family.
4. Little Christmas
Little Christmas has taken many forms over the years, but it originally started with the idea that women of the household would abandon their tasks and go out together on the 6th of January when Christmas was officially at an end. Now, it is the day the Christmas decorations come down.
5. The Wren
The Wren is still a massive tradition in Ireland. The Wren Boys tie a fake wren to the top of a stick and go from house to house, singing and asking for money for the wren, ie themselves.
6. The Three Puddings
Traditionally in Ireland, women would bake three puddings for the Christmas festivities, one for each night of the Epiphany, Christmas Night, New Year’s Night and Twelfth Night.
7. The Christmas Swim
Across the country, and after (or just before) dinner, many get into their swimming gear and take part in the Christmas swim. Although this mainly takes place at the 40 foot in Dublin, there is a strong tradition of swimming on Christmas day in Salthill in Galway too!
