Christmas Around the World: Ireland

Christmas in Killarney is wonderful to see
Listen to my story and I'll take you back with me

With the international flavor of Christmas Around the World I thought it might be fun to explore some of the customs and traditions associated with countries represented by the songs on the album. And what better place to begin then the beautiful Emerald Isle of Ireland and the song Christmas in Killarney. Because even though my last name is DeLuca, me dear Grandmother was a Shaw, don’t you know.

An Irish Christmas

The Christmas season in Ireland traditionally begins on the Feast of the Immaculate Conception (Dec 8), lasting until Epiphany (or Little Christmas) on Jan 6. As in many countries, Christmas Trees and Nativity displays abound – but if you hang a Holly wreath on your front door at Christmas time you can thank the Irish, as that tradition actually originated there.

On Christmas Eve, it’s traditional to place a candle in the window as a welcome to Mary and Joseph, as well as providing a beacon of hope to travelers in need of shelter. And for Christmas dinner it’s a sumptuous feast of turkey, cranberry sauce, potatoes, spiced beef and Christmas pies.

Up for a Swim?

Each year, thousands in Ireland brave the elements Christmas morning to take a swim in the sea, where the water temperature at this time of year typically ranges from 6°C to 10°C (43°F to 50°F). While the event is often used to raise funds for charity, many simply join in for fun!

After diving in for a brisk swim, you might be ready for a traditional hot Irish whiskey punch: whiskey, lemon, cloves, and a touch of brown sugar. Just the thing to warm up during the coldest months of the year.

And be sure not to miss Wren Day on December 26^th, where the “Wren Boys” of the town dress up in straw suits and masks (or face paint) and parade through the village carrying a decorated pole topped with a (now symbolic) wren.

Christmas in Killarney

While the song Christmas in Killarney was first recorded in 1950 by Dennis Day (a regular on Jack Benny’s radio show), the most famous and enduring version came from Bing Crosby the following year. I tried to retain the festive spirit of this piece with an arrangement leaning into a lively Irish jig to get your toes tapping! 🎻