A rollup of Christmas traditions here across the pond. The Irish people claim Christmas as their big holiday. They seem to think that thanksgiving is the big one in the U.S. We have explained there all big over there...
Food:
The one similarity to American thanksgiving is the meal. In ireland the Christmas dinner is similar big deal as Thanksgiving meal.
The typical meal is turkey and ham (boiled not baked), stuffing, roast vegetables.
For dessert- mince pies, christmas cake, christmas pudding (note mince pies are everywhere, it is one of the signs of the season in grocery stores, coffee shops, etc...)
We found out the other day that it really is ham and turkey not an or. We were at a restaurant where both are served together. A slice of turkey on the bottom, covered by lump of stuffing with a slice of ham on top. Surprisingly good.
TV:
The season starts off with the late late toy show
Then the nation channels fill the season with movies...
From the english neighbours we have Christmas Day specials for Doctor Who (new doctor introduced on Christmas this year) to Downton Abbey.
Jumpers:
Sweaters to americans... It sounds like this is a new old tradition. Christmas jumpers are available in all the stores. We have the classy ones and the ones that are 3D with baubles hanging off. Mine has a scarf and a bauble nose.
Drinking:
In downtown dublin it is the 12 pubs of christmas. this is where everyone wear the aforementioned jumper and try and visit 12 pubs in one night. Drunken mayhem ensues...
Also tis the season for mulled wine.
Egg nog not so much. The only place you would see this is on the starbucks menu as an egg nog latte. otherwise not an Irish thing.
Pantos:
I have heard it is tradition to see a holiday Panto. From wikipedia pantos are theater style that includes song, dance, slapstick, cross-dressing,jokes. Will let you know, we are set to see one on New Years eve.
Santa Claus:
Obviously his minions and stand ins are here also. The Irish affectionately call him Santy
thats all for now, will see if we learn any other new Irish customs in the coming week
Rob
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