Christmas in Ireland
By Giulia, Asia, and Ashley
Traditions by Giulia
Most families have midnight mass on christmas eve. On the day after christmas they have horse races, they call this St. Stephan's day. Christmas day swims take place all over Ireland but most famously at the Forty Foot Rock. Hundreds of people can be seen taking their dive on christmas day on the famous rock. They also take part in Christmas caroling and wearing ugly sweaters. Just like in America the Irish people put up lights and holly wreaths to decorate their houses.
Beliefs By Giulia
Most of the children in Ireland believe in San Nicolas (Santa Clause). They believe that Christmas day is Jesus's birthday. The majority of the Ireland population believes in different forms of christianity.
Gift giving By Asia
Santa's name By Asia
Food By Ashley
Dinner is usually eaten in the mid-afternoon or early evening on Christmas Day.The meal will begin with a starter, generally of smoked salmon or prawns, soup or melon.This is followed by a main course of roast turkey (or goose) and ham, accompanied by bread stuffing, roast potatoes, mashed potatoes, gravy and sometime cranberry or bread sauce.
The traditional vegetable is brussel sprouts, but celery, carrots, peas, broccoli and others may also be served.
Interesting Facts by Ashley
On December 8th, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, all schools in Ireland are closed for the day. It is traditionally the nation's number one day for Christmas shopping.
One of the most common Christmas traditions in Ireland is to attend Church either at midnight on Christmas Eve or on Christmas morning. Christmas carols are sung at these ceremonies.