In Ireland, Christmas celebrations take place with great pomp and show. It is the biggest celebration of the year and lasts from 24th December to 6th January. Like all other countries of the world, Ireland also has its own set of Christmas traditions and customs, which are strictly followed by the people. Most of these traditions belong to the ancient Gaelic culture, which have survived into modern times. Moreover, gift traditions form an integral part of the Irish Christmas celebrations. To know more about the various Irish Christmas traditions, read on.
The Candle in the Window
On Christmas Eve, a lighted candle is placed in the window of each house. This practice is primarily a symbol of welcome extended towards Mary and Joseph, who traveled looking for shelter in the Biblical times. It also signifies a safe place for priests to perform mass, as during penal times this was restricted. In addition, the candle should be lit by the youngest member of the family and should only be extinguished by a girl with the name 'Mary'.
The Laden Table
After the evening meal on Christmas Eve, the kitchen table is once again set. The table is laid down with a loaf of bread filled with caraway seeds and raisins, a pitcher of milk and a large lit candle. The door to the house is left open symbolizing that Mary and Joseph or any wandering traveler, can avail of the welcome.
The Wren Boy Procession
This is the procession, which takes place on St. Stephens's Day, wherein a pole with a holly bush is carried from house to house. The families dress up in old clothes and participate with blackened faces. In olden times, an actual wren was killed and placed on top of the pole. However, though this custom is not followed any more, the tradition of visiting people from house to house on St. Stephens Day is still prevalent on Christmas.
This is the procession, which takes place on St. Stephens's Day, wherein a pole with a holly bush is carried from house to house. The families dress up in old clothes and participate with blackened faces. In olden times, an actual wren was killed and placed on top of the pole. However, though this custom is not followed any more, the tradition of visiting people from house to house on St. Stephens Day is still prevalent on Christmas.
