Embracing Tradition: A Traditional Christmas in Ireland

This time That's Christmas takes a look at a traditional Christmas in Ireland.

As we near the festive season, many countries around the world prepare to celebrate Christmas in their unique ways. Ireland, a country renowned for its rich cultural heritage, has its own special way of embracing the Christmas spirit. 

Christmas in Ireland is not just a day but a season filled with ancient traditions, heart-warming rituals, and a sense of community that genuinely captures the essence of the Christmas season. In this blog post, we will take a journey into the heart of a traditional Irish Christmas.

Decorating the Home

In Ireland, the Christmas season kicks off in early December with the lighting of the first candle in the Advent wreath. Many Irish families also put up their Christmas trees and decorate their homes with festive ornaments and twinkling lights. However, traditional Irish decorations often include sprigs of holly and ivy, which symbolise protection and good luck. Mistletoe is hung above doorways, where a kiss is exchanged beneath it, a custom that dates back to ancient Celtic traditions.

Christmas Eve

Christmas Eve is an important time for Irish families. Many attend a midnight Mass, which is a solemn and spiritual occasion. After Mass, it's customary to return home and enjoy a warm, hearty bowl of soup before heading to bed.

A Visit from Santa

In Ireland, Santa Claus is known as "Daidí na Nollag" or "Father Christmas." Children leave out a glass of milk and some mince pies for Santa, along with a carrot for his reindeer. This gesture is a sign of the warmth and hospitality that characterises Irish culture.

Traditional Christmas Dinner

On Christmas Day, a grand feast is prepared and shared among family and friends. The centrepiece of the meal is typically a roast turkey, ham, or goose. Traditional side dishes include stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and a wide array of vegetables. Christmas pudding, a rich fruitcake, is a must-have dessert. It's often doused in brandy and set ablaze before being served with a dollop of custard or cream.

St. Stephen's Day (Boxing Day)

The day after Christmas, known as St. Stephen's Day or Boxing Day, is marked by a variety of traditions. In rural areas, "Hunting the Wren" is a popular custom, where groups of young people dress up in straw costumes and parade through the streets, singing songs and collecting donations for charity.

Candlelit Windows

A beautiful Irish tradition is the lighting of a single candle in the window on Christmas Eve. This candle is a symbol of welcome and is meant to guide Mary and Joseph on their way to find shelter, a reminder of the true meaning of Christmas.

Christmas Carols and Music

Music is a fundamental part of an Irish Christmas. Local choirs and carol singers often visit homes, hospitals, and care facilities to share the joy of the season through songs and music. Traditional Irish instruments, like the tin whistle and bodhrán, add a unique and lively touch to the festivities.

Wren Boys

The Wren Boys tradition involves groups of young people, known as "Wren Boys," dressing in straw costumes and masks, parading through towns and villages, and collecting money for charity. This custom has roots in an old Irish legend and is a lively and colourful part of the Christmas season.

A traditional Christmas in Ireland is a heart-warming and authentic celebration of the holiday season. It's a time when family and community take centre stage, and age-old customs and rituals bring people together in a spirit of warmth and generosity. While modern influences have shaped some aspects of the holiday, the essence of a traditional Irish Christmas endures, reminding us of the importance of cherishing our heritage and the joy of the season.

(Image courtesy of Ylanite Koppens from Pixabay)

Celebrating Christmas in the Rainbow Nation: A South African Festive Experience

When you think of Christmas, images of snow-covered landscapes, twinkling lights, and warm fires might come to mind. However, Christmas in South Africa offers a unique and vibrant celebration that's quite different from the traditional Western Christmas season. In the Rainbow Nation, Christmas is a time of festive traditions, warm weather, and a rich blend of cultures. Let's take a journey to explore how South Africans celebrate this special time of year.

The Weather

One of the most distinctive features of Christmas in South Africa is the weather. Unlike the wintery Christmas celebrated in the Northern Hemisphere, December in South Africa marks the beginning of summer. The sun shines brightly, and temperatures soar, making it the perfect time for outdoor celebrations. It's not unusual for South Africans to celebrate Christmas with a beach outing or a picnic under the warm, golden sun.

Braai Time

A "braai" is South Africa's version of a barbecue, and it plays a significant role in the country's Christmas celebrations. Families and friends gather around the grill to cook up a feast of meats, sausages, and more. Traditional South African foods like boerewors (a coiled sausage) and sosaties (marinated skewers) are often grilled to perfection. These delicious dishes, along with salads, roasted vegetables, and "pap" (a maize porridge), make for a mouth-watering Christmas feast.

Local Delicacies

In addition to the braai, South Africans have a few unique Christmas delicacies that add a special touch to their celebrations. "Bobotie," a spiced, baked minced meat dish topped with an egg-based mixture, is a must on many Christmas tables. Desserts like "malva pudding," a sweet, sticky cake served with a warm custard, and "koeksisters," twisted and deep-fried dough soaked in syrup, are also holiday favourites.

Carols and Church Services

South Africa is a culturally diverse nation, and Christmas celebrations reflect this diversity. Carols are sung in many of the country's 11 official languages. Zulu, Afrikaans, and English carols are popular choices, creating a rich tapestry of sounds that resonate throughout communities. Many South Africans attend Christmas Eve church services to mark the birth of Christ, with midnight masses being a common tradition.

Decorations

While you won't see snow-covered landscapes, South Africans still go all out when it comes to decorating their homes for Christmas. You'll find Christmas trees adorned with colourful ornaments, tinsel, and lights, as well as wreaths on doors and twinkling fairy lights in windows. Some decorations even incorporate African elements, such as traditional beadwork and fabrics, adding a unique local flair.

Santa Claus and "Sinterklaas"

Santa Claus, or "Father Christmas" as he's known in South Africa, plays a central role in Christmas celebrations. He brings gifts to children, and like in many countries, the excitement of Santa's visit is a highlight for the little ones. 

Additionally, the Dutch tradition of "Sinterklaas" is still observed in some South African communities, especially among the Afrikaans-speaking population. Sinterklaas, a legendary figure similar to Santa Claus, arrives in early December with his assistant "Zwarte Piet" to distribute sweets and presents to children.

Conclusion

Christmas in South Africa is a unique and joyful experience. From the warm, sunny weather to the diverse cultural celebrations and delicious cuisine, this holiday season is a vibrant and memorable time in the Rainbow Nation. Whether you're soaking up the sun at the beach, enjoying a braai with friends and family, or attending a multilingual carol service, Christmas in South Africa is a celebration of unity and traditions, all against the backdrop of a stunning summer landscape.

(Image courtesy of Steve Buissinne from Pixabay)

Elevate Your Christmas With Luxury Cheese and Gift Hampers from the Cheshire Cheese Company

The Cheshire Cheese Company - the multi award-winning, premium cheese producer, has launched two new festive cheese truckles and multiple gift-worthy hampers, which can all be yours in time for Christmas.

And what could be more of a seasonal delight than cranberries and clementines? The zesty, sweet, punchy fruits have been expertly combined with Cheshire cheese to make any cheeseboard pop with flavour this Christmas.

Cranberry (Cheshire cheese with Cranberries – 200g truckle, £5.50) A twist on the iconic Christmas classic, you'll now be able to experience the perfect balance of tangy cranberries and the Cheshire Cheese Company's award-winning oh-so-very creamy Cheshire cheese. Enjoy with crackers, in sandwiches or include in graze boards for a true festive feast.

Clementine (Cheshire cheese with Orange, Cognac and Dried Fruit – 200g truckle, £5.50) Indulge in the exquisite combination of clementine, cognac and dried fruit, expertly blended with the Cheshire Cheese Company's renowned creamy Cheshire cheese. Zesty and smooth, devour as part of a cheeseboard course or any time you fancy a festive snack.

Cheshire Cheese Company's Christmas hampers are the perfect gift for the person in your life who has everything, as well as those you want to say a special thank you to. With options for all price points, ranging from £20 to £100, as well as various combinations of cheese, wine, port, chutney, biscuits and more, there really is something for everyone.

New for Christmas 2023, all hampers are available in brand new black and yellow Cheshire Cheese Company magnetic presentation gift boxes that exude quiet luxury and are delivered to an address of your choice.

Their festive favourites include:

• Cheeseboard for Two - Choose your favourite two flavours from their extensive and unique range of flavoured cheese truckles. Why not try their famous Black Bob Extra Mature Cheddar or Hunter - truffle and cracked black pepper cheddar? Plus, select a jar of chutney as well as a box of artisan cheese biscuits for the ultimate treat. [£19.95]

• Cheese Lovers Hamper - Perfect as a festive thank you gift, pick four award-winning premium cheeses as well as a jar of chutney and a box of crackers for the most lovely surprise someone could wish to receive under the tree this year. [£33.00]

• Duo of Cheese & Wine - Looking for a gift for your special someone? This set is romance in a box - complete with two full size cheese truckles in the bestselling Reserva - caramelised onion and Rioja cheddar, and Black Bob - extra mature cheddar, it comes in a wooden box with a 75cl bottle of Ribshack red wine and a box of caramelised onion crackers. Just add your favourite music and candles et voila! [£33.95]

• Decadent Christmas Cheese & Wine Hamper - The definition of festive luxury, this hamper comes complete with three waxed truckles, a box of caramelised onion cheese biscuits and a jar of caramelised onion chutney all produced by the Cheshire Cheese Company and packaged in its distinctive black and yellow magnetic gift box. Plus, add your preference of a bottle of red or white wine to complete this sumptuous gift. [£49.95]

• No.1 Selection -  They have added their six bestsellers to one gift set ready for you to treat someone this Christmas. Including Red Leicester and cheddar cheese truckles, this supreme selection includes Black Bob, Reserva, Masala, Shamrock, Jerk Spice and Smokewood. [£34.95]

Express delivery options and pre-orders are available. For further information, please go to cheshirecheesecompany.co.uk 

Leading Artisan Ham Company Ramps Up Production Ahead of Christmas

Royal Warrant holding artisanal ham producer, DukesHill is working around the clock to meet the high demand for their gammon, ham and sweet treats like mince pies and handmade Christmas cakes ahead of the festive period. 

The Shropshire-based business is known for its dedication to providing the finest traditionally cured hams, free-range bronze turkeys, and artisanal fine foods. To cope with demand, DukesHill will increase its workforce by 200% over the coming months. 

During the peak Christmas period between October and December, DukesHill plans to cure over 15,000 outdoor bred pork legs across a variety of products, including traditionally cured cooked and uncooked hams, bacon, slices of porchetta, ham hock and pork products.

Over forty thousand hams were sold during the festive season last year, 2022, a number the luxury food producer is hoping to exceed for Christmas 2023. 

They also expect to distribute two thousand of their specially reared turkeys, tens of thousands of handmade mince pies and over seven thousand of DukesHill’s very own handmade Christmas puddings, as people stock up for the big day.

Last year’s statistics show the nation is opting for more gammon around Christmas time than ever before. Data collected by Kantar shows retailers experienced a 23.6% increase in value of gammon sales and 5.1% uplift by volume year-on-year, of gammon products in the four weeks to Christmas Day 2022.

Mark Gallagher, CEO of DukesHill says, “The months running up to Christmas is the busiest time fir us at DukesHill and right now our dedicated team is working hard to ensure there’s plenty of perfectly cured ham and sweet treats for our customers to have a memorable and most delicious Christmas. 

"Ham is one of the nation’s favourite centrepieces over Christmas and it’s no wonder, it’s an incredibly versatile crowd-pleaser that's easy to prepare and absolutely delicious, too. Not to mention the lure of Boxing Day ham, egg and chips! Our Christmas brochures have landed, and we’ve already seen a 35% increase in customers placing their Christmas orders earlier this year.” 

Launching this Christmas, DukesHill forecast the star product to be their new Cranberry Glazed Ham with Pork & Cranberry Stuffing - Half ham, RRP £80 (min 2kg), Whole ham, RRP £125. This special edition Christmas ham is generously stuffed with their very own Pork and Cranberry Stuffing. 

A DukesHill ham or turkey is a celebration of good farming techniques, which is good news for British farming and industry, as they use only the finest quality outdoor-bred British pork and the most traditional curing methods which can take up to six months to produce.

One of DukesHill’s farmers, Andrew Tomson from Peddars Pigs Ltd, plays a crucial role in helping meet the demand. He said: “As a pig farmer of 45 years, our commitment is to ensure the wellbeing of every pig under our care. I really, firmly believe raising healthy pigs on straw is about providing them with a life of comfort and respect in an environment where they thrive. This produces the best quality pork and we know these animals have lived the best life possible.”

As for the traditional choice of turkey for a Christmas Day feast, DukesHill’s free range bronze turkeys are reared especially for DukesHill in Kent by a highly experienced third-generation turkey-farming family who have been rearing turkeys for forty years. Their turkeys roam freely in grassy paddocks and meadows and are fed a natural cereal-based diet.

Customers can book their deliveries to fill the larder for the festive period or order hampers for loved ones on the website www.dukeshill.co.uk. Early orders are encouraged to guarantee timely delivery and to ensure everyone can savour a delicious Christmas with DukesHill.

That's Food and Drink: Distillerie De Grandmont Makes Its UK Debut

That's Food and Drink: Distillerie De Grandmont Makes Its UK Debut: You may have heard of Distillerie De Grandmont, but you wouldn't have been able to purchase their sprits in the UK. Until now, that is. ...

Just in time for Christmas! BZZD Energy, the World's fist Energy Tonic Water

Feel that you need a little extra buzz? Then please allow us to introduce you to BZZD Energy, the world’s first energy tonic water.

Whilst many leading energy drinks use synthetic caffeine, BZZD Energy is powered only by nature – with caffeine extracted from 100% natural plant sources to give the ultimate all-natural, uplifting buzz. 

Not only energised by, but sweetened by nature too, this exciting new launch is infused with the finest pure Blossom Honey and plant-based Stevia to create the perfect delicate flavour experience, nasty sugary aftertastes are a thing of the past!

Expertly crafted to lift and boost your spirits, BZZD Energy is the ultimate guilt free pick me up as it boasts more caffeine per 100ml than the UK’s leading energy brand, while being only 18kcals per can, too.

Perfect for the times you need a naturally powered energising lift, enjoy BZZD Energy on its own or as a mixer for spirits and low/no alcohol alternatives to create a winning highball to enjoy over Christmas, or twist on true classics such as our G & Bee, Queen Bee, or Stinger Winter serves.

BZZD Energy really is the bee’s knees and proud to be British with 100% recyclable packaging and all ingredients ethically produced in the UK.

BZZD Energy tonic water is available via Selfridges and Amazon, available in cases of 8 (RRP £5.50).

Also visit the BZZD Energy website at https://bzzdenergy.co.uk/ for exclusive online offers.

BZZD Energy is, of course, committed to ‘responsible drinking’.

A Kiwi Christmas: Tradition, Sunshine, and Surprises

As part of a series, That's Christmas is looking at how Christmas is celebrated in different part of the world. Today we are looking at Christmas in New Zealand.

Christmas is a time for joy, celebration, and togetherness, and it's celebrated in diverse ways all around the world. In the land down under, New Zealand, Christmas is a unique and delightful affair that combines traditional elements with the beauty of a Southern Hemisphere summer. 

Let's dive into the fascinating world of a Kiwi Christmas and explore the customs and traditions that make it so special.

Summer Down Under

One of the most striking differences between Christmas in New Zealand and many other parts of the world is the season. Christmas in New Zealand falls during the Southern Hemisphere summer, meaning December 25th is a day of sunshine and warmth. While the Northern Hemisphere often experiences a white Christmas, Kiwis enjoy long, sunny days, and average temperatures between 20-30°C (68-86°F). This allows for unique Christmas traditions that revolve around outdoor activities, barbecues, and trips to the beach.

The Pohutukawa Tree

While Christmas trees are common worldwide, New Zealand has its own special version - the Pohutukawa tree. Often referred to as the New Zealand Christmas tree, it's known for its brilliant crimson flowers that bloom in December. These vibrant blooms are a vivid symbol of the festive season in the country, and you'll find them decorating homes and streets.

Outdoor Celebrations

Given the beautiful summer weather, it's no surprise that Kiwis love to celebrate Christmas outdoors. Picnics, barbecues, and gatherings at the beach or in local parks are common. Families and friends often come together for a relaxed and sun-soaked feast, complete with New Zealand's famous barbecue specialties like lamb, seafood, and sausages. Pohutukawa blossoms and native ferns are used for decoration, enhancing the natural beauty of the surroundings.

A Christmas Dip

Christmas Day is often accompanied by a refreshing swim. Many New Zealanders take the opportunity to visit the beach or local swimming spots to cool off. It's a tradition that celebrates the spirit of summer and the joy of the ocean. Children build sandcastles and play in the waves, and families relax on the sandy shores, making cherished memories together.

Santa's Mode of Transport

In New Zealand, Santa's traditional sleigh and reindeer take on a unique twist. To accommodate the warmer weather and lack of snow, Santa is often depicted arriving on the shores in a surfboard or a waka (a traditional Māori canoe). This charming Kiwi adaptation adds a touch of humour and showcases the Kiwi spirit of innovation.

Māori and Pacific Influences

New Zealand's cultural diversity is reflected in its Christmas celebrations. Māori and Pacific Island communities have their own unique customs and add their rich traditions to the festive season. Māori waiata (songs) and Pacific Island dances often make appearances at Christmas events, providing a multicultural blend that truly defines the Kiwi way of life.

Gift-Giving and Family Time

Like in many parts of the world, gift-giving is a cherished tradition in New Zealand. Families come together to exchange presents and celebrate the joy of giving. While traditional Christmas dinners are common, a laid-back approach to the day prevails, with the emphasis being on spending time with loved ones and enjoying the outdoors.

New Zealand's Christmas celebrations are a harmonious blend of tradition, natural beauty, and a unique Southern Hemisphere twist. Whether you're picnicking on the beach, decorating a Pohutukawa tree, or enjoying a barbecue, a Kiwi Christmas is a memorable experience. It's a time to embrace the spirit of the season while appreciating the stunning landscapes and vibrant culture that make New Zealand's Christmas truly one of a kind.

(Image of a New Zealand church courtesy of ApplesPC from Pixabay)