Christmas in Ireland

Christmas in Ireland is a time to honor religious customs and family. Many of Ireland's Christmas traditions are similar to those celebrated in other western cultures, however Ireland also has a few special traditions of its own. Check out the links on this page to find out more about how they celebrate Christmas in Ireland.

In Ireland, children put their stockings, and sometimes even a pillowcase, at the end of their bed so it can be filled with small trinkets and gifts. In hard economical times, children have been known to receive pieces of peat or coal in their stocking. This was not considered a punishment, but a gift, as there was nothing else to give them.Kaboose: Christmas in Ireland

Many families light candles that burn in their windows. This candle display is a representation of hospitality to Mary, Joseph and the Christ child.Guide to Ireland: Christmas in Ireland

After Christmas Eve dinner, the table was cleared and a loaf of bread, a pitcher of milk and a burning candle were left in the center. The household door was left unlocked so Mary and Joseph, or any other weary traveler that happened by, could take advantage of the household's hospitality.Ireland: Irish Christmas Traditions

The custom of decorating with a wreath of holly originated in Ireland. It is considered bad luck to take down holly decorations before the Feast of Epiphany on January 6th.