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Kick into the Holiday Season with these Irish Christmas Traditions
Luke McLeod
| Last Updated: Thursday, 1 August 2024
| Minute Read
Luke McLeod
Last Updated: Thursday, 1 August 2024
Minute Read
- Christmas is a special time of the year for many people all over the world, but Ireland has its own unique traditions that make the holiday season even more memorable. Some traditions began centuries ago such as delicious Christmas puddings to more modern times like braving the cold of a sea swim, there are many ways to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year in the Emerald Isle.
Let’s dive into some of the most cherished Irish Christmas traditions that make this season truly enchanting.
The Beloved Christmas Pudding
The festive period is a time when people around the world dust off their recipe books and make traditional food for Christmas. One of the most iconic Irish Christmas traditions is the beloved Christmas pudding. This rich and fruity dessert is a staple at every Irish Christmas Dinner table. Made with ingredients like raisins, breadcrumbs, and citrus, it is a sweet and indulgent treat that has been passed down from generation to generation.
The preparation of the Christmas pudding often begins weeks before the big day, known as “Stir-Up Sunday”, the last Sunday before Advent. Family members gather in the kitchen, each taking turns to stir the pudding mixture and make a wish for the year ahead. If you have a busy schedule or missed the Stir-Up Sunday, you can always visit your local supermarket and buy a readymade one (saves time on cleaning up too).
The pudding is typically steamed for several hours and then stored away, allowing the flavors to mature and develop. On Christmas Day, it is then steamed again. Many families will have their own recipes, making each pudding unique however, one thing for certain is that every family in Ireland pours Irish whiskey over the whole pudding once it is on the table. Then, typically the youngest member of the house sets alight to the pudding. Once the blue flame has gone out, the pudding is then served with a dollop of ice-cream, cream, or custard.
Braving the Elements: The Christmas Sea Swim
Another popular activity during the holiday season is braving the chilly Irish waters for a Christmas Day swim. While this may seem like a strange Irish tradition to some, it is a fun way to celebrate Christmas in Ireland. Many local communities organize sea swims on Christmas Day, and sea swimmers often dress up in festive red bathing suits and Santa Claus costumes for added festivities. It’s a great way to get some fresh air, energize and start the day off right while the turkey and ham sunbathes in the oven.
There are many famous spots for this brave tradition such as the Vico Baths, Forty Foot Pier, and Dollymount beach which is close by to Clontarf Castle. Find your local sea swimming points if you’re staying with us over the Christmas period and wish to take part in the tradition (Travel Tip: Don’t forget to pack your Santa costume).
Hundreds of swimmers take the plunge every year, this annual tradition is about the social gathering as a community on a festive day but mainly to raise money for chosen charities. A great humble way to begin your Christmas Day.
On the 12th Pub of Christmas…
One fun tradition, especially popular in Ireland, is the 12 Pubs of Christmas. The idea is simple: visit 12 pubs in one night, having a drink with friends at each. This tradition likely started in Dublin 20 years ago as a festive way for friends to celebrate.
Young adults and students quickly picked it up, adding fun rules like wearing Christmas jumpers and walking between pubs hopping on 1 leg. Some places have set pub crawl routes, while others choose their own. Many groups also use the event to raise money for charity, adding a feel-good aspect.
The 12 Pubs of Christmas has spread worldwide, including to the US, Canada, and Australia, each adding their own twist. It’s become a perfect excuse and beloved holiday tradition full of socializing, giving, and festive cheer.
Late Late Toy Show: One for Everyone in the Audience!
One of the most anticipated holiday traditions in Ireland is gathering in the living room all in matching pajamas to watch the Late Late Toy Show. This cherished show captures the hearts of families across the country and has become an unmissable part of the holiday season for many of families.
For those who may not be familiar, the Late Late Toy Show is a TV special that airs annually on RTE, (the national broadcaster of Ireland). It features children from all over the country showcasing the most popular toys of the year, as well as heartwarming moments and special performances from past big acts such as Ed Sheeran and Niall Horan. The show has been a beloved tradition since its debut in 1975 and has since become a staple of Irish holiday celebrations.
The Late Late Toy Show typically airs on the last Friday in November and this year, it is taking place on the 24th of November 2024.
On Grafton Street ♩ ♪ ♫ ♬
For those looking to do some Christmas shopping in Dublin City Centre, the famous Grafton Street is a must-visit, especially during the most popular shopping days of the year. This iconic street is transformed into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and a lively atmosphere that will fill you with holiday cheer. It’s the perfect place to find unique gifts for your loved ones while enjoying the festive spirit of the city.
Street performers, also known as buskers, add to the festive ambiance with their renditions of Christmas classics, making your shopping experience even more delightful. The lights on Grafton Street are switched on at a special ceremony, often attended by family, friends and even celebrities, marking the official start of the Christmas season in Dublin.
Dublin Castle: Christmas Market
Another must-visit spot in Dublin during the festive season is Dublin Castle. This historic landmark is transformed into a Christmas Market, filled with vendors selling everything from handmade crafts to delicious festive food and drinks. It’s a great way to get way into the holiday spirit and experience the vibrant culture of Ireland. It’s not very often that you get to have castle walls as a backdrop, seize the moment and capture festive photos while there.
The Dublin Castle Christmas Market is renowned for its festive atmosphere and high-quality goods. You can find beautifully crafted gifts, from handcrafted knitwear, ornaments, Christmas decorations and jewelry, ensuring that your Christmas shopping is both enjoyable and meaningful. The market also features live entertainment, carol singers, and seasonal treats like mulled wine, traditional minced pies, and roasted chestnuts, making it a must visit during the holidays.
The Wren Boys
Lastly, another cherished tradition that is unique to Ireland is the Wren Boys. On St. Stephen’s Day, groups of people go from door to door dressed in traditional costumes, carrying a fake wren on a pole. This tradition dates back to ancient Celtic times and is said to bring good luck and blessings to the household. It’s a fun and light-hearted tradition that is still celebrated in many parts of Ireland.
The Wren Boys tradition has fascinating roots in folklore. According to one legend, a wren betrayed St. Stephen by making noise and revealing his hiding place, leading to his capture. To remember this event, people used to hunt the wren and parade it through the village. Nowadays, the wren is just a symbol and no longer harmed, but the fun tradition of dressing up, singing, and collecting donations is still alive.
Wren Boys often wear colorful costumes made from straw or old clothing, and they sometimes paint their faces or wear masks. They sing traditional songs and perform dances as they go from house to house, creating a joyful and festive atmosphere. The money they collect is usually donated to charity or used to fund community events.
Christmas at Clontarf Castle Hotel
If you’re keen to soak up all the festive celebrations in Dublin this Christmas, Clontarf Castle Hotel is the place to be. Clontarf Castle is transformed into an enchanting wonderland during the Christmas season, adorned with lavish decorations. Guests can indulge in a delightful festive itinerary, featuring exquisite cuisine and captivating entertainment. Our dedicated team ensures that every guest’s stay is truly extraordinary, making it an unforgettable holiday experience.
Festive Itinerary:
Christmas Eve: Enjoy citrus spiced mulled wine on arrival in the glorious setting of the Atrium lobby, followed by a sumptuous four-course dinner in the majestic Great Hall.
Christmas Day: Begin with an artisan castle breakfast accompanied by chilled Prosecco, then savor a traditional Christmas Day buffet lunch in the regal Great Hall. Later, enjoy an evening light fare and unwind in Knights Bar as Christmas Day draws to a close.
St. Stephen’s Day: Start your day with St. Stephen’s artisan castle breakfast.
This itinerary promises a festive time filled with culinary delights and joyful moments, all set within the magical ambiance of Clontarf Castle Hotel. If you’d love to experience the castle adorned in its festive decorations without staying over Christmas, check out our special seasonal offers like our Winter Retreat package.
The Wrap Up
Christmas in Ireland is a time of cherished traditions and unique celebrations that make the holiday season truly enchanting. From the rich, indulgent Christmas puddings to the invigorating sea swims, each tradition adds its own special touch to the festivities.
The 12 Pubs of Christmas bring friends together for a night of fun and giving, while the Late Late Toy Show and the lights of Grafton Street fill hearts with festive cheer. The historic Dublin Castle Christmas Market and the age-old tradition of the Wren Boys add to the vibrant cultural tapestry of Irish Christmas.
For a truly magical experience, Clontarf Castle Hotel offers a festive itinerary that promises an unforgettable holiday season. Whether you’re participating in beloved traditions or exploring new ones, Christmas in Ireland is a time to create lasting memories with loved ones.
At Clontarf Castle Hotel, these traditions come to life in a magical setting, offering guests an unforgettable Christmas experience filled with warmth, culinary delights, and festive cheer.
Nollaig Shona Duit
Luke McLeod
Luke is a seasoned travel writer, with years of experience around Europe, America and at home in Dublin.
If it’s not discovering some of Clontarf’s finest coffee shops, Luke can be found in the city centre tracing over historic steps of Irish history or chatting with some of his favourite artisan producers in the town.
Wether it’s a pub for a quiet pint, a day trip from the capital or a dainty market to spend your Saturday morning, Luke’s travel tips will ensure your stay at Clontarf Castle Hotel is a unique experience.
