christmas in ireland (primary)

Decorations A Christmas tree decorated with lights, ribbons, balls and a star.

We put a holly wreath on the front door.

We have “The Crib” (Nativity Scene) in the house.

It is popular to send Christmas cards to each other too.

Christmas Eve The 24th of December.

We don't really celebrate Christmas Eve.

We light a candle and put it in the window.

We also go to midnight mass.

Santa Claus Comes on Christmas Eve to all the good boys and girls.

He leaves presents under the tree.

He comes in his sleigh with his reindeers.

Children leave cookies and milk for Santa and a carrot for Rudolf.

Christmas Day The 25th of December.

Children open their presents.

Dinner is eaten at 1 or 2 o' clock.

We usually eat turkey, bacon, brussel sprouts, roast spuds and croquettes with gravy.

We also pull Christmas crackers before dinner. Inside there is a toy and a hat.

St Stephen's Day The Wren Boys killed a bird called the Wren.

They went from door to door singing to get money.

They dressed in costumes with their faces black.

They also played traditional instruments.

Little Christmas The 6th of January.

Also called Nollaig na mBán or women's Christmas.

Women get the day off.

Men do the housework. For example the cooking and cleaning.