In Ireland, the local population is particularly attached to Christmas and its traditions! It’s an opportunity for the Irish to get together as a family, celebrate a religious holiday (let’s not forget that the Irish are very religious), and share the joy of being together. Here’s an overview of Christmas traditions in Ireland, to help you better understand their customs, and do the same at home if you feel like it!
A holly wreath for Christmas – © lyulkamazur
It’s a tradition that goes back centuries! At the time, Ireland was a country living in misery and poverty. The Irish were already living under the yoke of the British Empire, and Christmas was all about making their homes as beautiful as possible.
To do this, they decorated their doors and interiors with whatever was available: holly in general, and ivy for a more aesthetic look. This brightened up their homes, and diffused pleasant plant scents indoors…
More importantly, the holly and ivy symbolized a happy and prosperous year ahead. A symbol of protection, peace and happiness. All the more reason for the Irish to remain positive and full of hope for the future.
Today, the tradition is still firmly rooted in Irish customs. Countless doors and houses are adorned with holly wreaths! A warm, festive decor that evokes the magic of Christmas!
A fiddle in an Irish pub © dermot
Much more modern, this Christmas tradition was created by Irish students. The aim is to visit 12 Irish pubs in one evening… and to meet pre-defined targets. It’s a rather festive and busy program, but that doesn’t mean you’ll have to be a complete wreck by the end of the evening (alcohol consumption is optional, and must be in moderation).
The aim of this rather original tradition is to give students a fun, convivial time. It has to be said that the tokens are many and varied:
In short, there’s something for everyone!
The Muiredach cross – Felipe Garcia – cc
Let’s not forget: the Irish are deeply religious and the majority of them are Catholics. So it’s customary for them to attend midnight mass on Christmas Eve. It’s a chance for them to get dressed up and keep their faith in God alive.
Churches and cathedrals are usually packed: the ceremonies are in keeping with the usual rituals. Carols, prayers, sermons: everything you need to celebrate Christmas in a religious way!
This tradition is one of Ireland’s Christmas must-haves. It’s customary to leave a candle burning in the window. A gesture to let foreigners know they’re welcome in the home…
But this candle also carries a more religious meaning. It would welcome Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus into the house. A way to give them access to their home.
The Irish love wearing ugly sweaters at Christmas! – gpointstudio
Another modern tradition: the ultra-kitsch Christmas sweater. This tradition is more generally Anglo-Saxon, and can be found in the USA, England and Ireland.
It’s a chance to prove that ridicule doesn’t kill. You’ll have to wear an original Christmas sweater, preferably an ugly one… Local competitions are sometimes organized to cultivate the Irish sense of self-deprecation!
But be careful: you’re not allowed to wear an Aran sweater, which is far too chic for the occasion!
A Plum Pudding – bhofack2
Good to know if you don’t want to choke to death: the Irish are in the habit of slipping a coin into their plum pudding, a traditional Irish cake.
Whoever found the coin would experience prosperity, happiness and health. A kind of bean that makes for a convivial meal!
Forty Foot, during the Christmas ice bath – © Eugene Remizov
It’s got to be one of Ireland’s craziest traditions! December 25 is organized for those who want “an icy dip”. The concept is simple: take a dip in the Atlantic Ocean to get the New Year off on the right foot!
The water is icy cold and requires a certain amount of courage. But the Irish are not easily intimidated. Many people take the plunge: young and old alike… And some, full of humor, don’t hesitate to go dressed as Santa Claus: in underpants and a white beard!
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