Christmas is a national holiday that celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. It is a time for families to spend together, indulging in gift-giving and feasts. It is an important holiday in Ireland.
Upcoming Dates & Where They Are Celebrated
Although Christmas is on December 25, the holiday can be adjusted. When the date falls on a Sunday, the observed day-off will be on the following Tuesday. Here are the upcoming dates and their observations:
- Monday, December 25, 2017
- Tuesday, December 25, 2018
- Wednesday, December 25, 2019
- Friday, December 25, 2020
Where Is Christmas Considered A Holiday?
Christmas is considered a holiday everywhere in Ireland, and in most of the world. There is almost nothing open on Christmas day. Government offices, post offices and banks will certainly be closed. Other businesses choose to close, so workers' may spend time with their families. Some small family-owned businesses may remain open on Christmas to provide emergency needs for their customers. There are many restaurants and pubs that remain open. There is no public transportation in many areas.
Festivities & Events During Christmas
On Christmas, it is traditional to spend time with the family. Many choose to celebrate by visiting their local church and enjoying sermons throughout the day. The sense of community within a church is a great way to spend such an important day. Others may choose to gather around the Christmas tree and simply spend the day together. In the morning, it is traditional for a gift exchange. In the evening, there is often a large feast, including a turkey or other bird. Following the feast, there is often a traditional pudding dessert served. The day before Christmas (Christmas Eve) and the day after (Boxing Day) are often holidays as well. For this reason, many families may choose to travel. This may be to visit other family members, or simply take a vacation to beat the Winter blues. The most important part of Christmas, religious or not, is family.
A Brief History Of Christmas
Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ in the Christian religion. However, many of the standard Christmas traditions actually came from both Pagan festivals and Celtic rituals. From the Pagan festivals comes the concept behind the Christmas tree. Both stringing lights on the tree and decorating it were signs of thanking nature. From the Celtic rituals comes lighting a fire and holding parties/feasts. The tradition of gift-giving comes from the bible, as three wise men brought Jesus Christ gifts.