Christmas Traditions and Upcoming Events
Pic Mike Kinsella
Christmas in North Mayo
Christmas in Ireland is traditionally a large celebration. “Nollaig Shona” is the Irish greeting for “Happy Christmas”. The celebration lasts from Christmas Eve to “Little Christmas” also known in Irish as “Nollaig na MBan” or “Women’s Christmas”. This is celebrated on January 6th each year. Traditionally women got the day off from all housework and cooking duties on this day!!
Christmas Traditions
One old tradition is that of lighting a candle and putting it on the window sill on Christmas Eve. The candle is a welcoming light for travellers to guide them on their way.
On this day, children hope that Santa Clause also known as “Daidí na Nollag” will call to their house and leave some presents for them.
St Stephen’s Day is celebrated on 26th December. An old tradition on this day dates back to ancient times when a wren was carried around a holly bush. The practice of carrying a real wren has been abandoned but many people dress up in costumes and call to houses singing and playing music. A traditional rhyme often sang is:
“The wren, the wren, the king of all birds,
St. Stephen’s Day was caught in the furze,
Although he was little his honour was great,
Jump up me lads and give him a treat.
Up with the kettle and down with the pan,
And give us a penny to bury the wren”
Christmas Celebrations in North Mayo
This magical time of year is celebrated here in North Mayo. There is a jam-packed calendar of family fun events, seasonal activities and markets all full of festive cheer!! A selection of some of these events are:
Frosty Salmon Festival Ballina
Kickstarting the festivities in Ballina is The Frosty Salmon Festival. From the traditional to the modern there is something for everyone in Ballina.
See the iconic Coca-Cola truck in real life as it spreads its holiday magic again this year.
A visit to Santa is always a magical experience. Meet Santa on board the wonderful Polar Express or call to his grotto to meet the man himself and all his helpers.
Crossmolina Market
The Crossmolina Christmas Market is back again this year at the North Mayo Heritage Centre situated in the grounds of Enniscoe House.
Foxford Crafts Fair
Finally the Foxford Crafts Fair is a wonderful event showcasing wonderful Irish Crafts with a fabulous festive atmosphere.
Hope you enjoyed the article and …
Beannachtaí an tSéasúir agus Nollaig Shona Daoibh from Sherry FitzGerald Feeney West.
For further information please click on the following links:
#frostysalmonfestival ballina #ballinatouristoffice #mayonorth #northmayoheritagecentre #ballina.ie&ballinachamberofcommerce #foxford craftsfair #sherryfitz #cocacolatrucktour2018
