Wren Day Ireland

Christmas in Ireland doesn’t end on the 25th. In fact, it often extends right into the New Year. One of the longest-running traditions in the country is the celebration of Wren Day. This eclectic festival takes place Dec. 26 to commemorate St. Stephens Day.

Traditionally, a procession of young men and children would parade through the streets dressed in old clothes and blackened faces carrying a pole with a holly bush atop. The bush would be crowned with the body of a wren hunted earlier in the day. For fairly obvious reasons, this tradition didn’t hold up over the years. Today, mummers, or strawboys as they’re called, celebrate by dressing up in colorful outfits, straw suits and masks and go door to door with music.

A parade is held during the celebration with incredible displays of dancing and revelry, along with live music. There are also smaller events scattered throughout towns that include food and family, and many of the traditional Christmas decorations. As one of the longest-running traditions in Ireland, it’s a fantastic opportunity to learn about Irish history and mingle with locals.

Singing plays a huge role in the celebration and, as everyone gathers around a mock wren in the center of town, spectators are expected to join in during the “Wren Song.” It’s also typical of visitors to donate money that is given to local schools and charities at the beginning of the New Year.