Your Weekly Dose of Irish – December 18th, 2024 🎄☘️
Welcome back to the Weekly Dose of Irish, where we celebrate all things Irish—jokes, trivia, poems, and more! This week, we’re bringing you a festive edition as we count down to Christmas.
From now on I will be sharing the weekly dose in a blog post as well as delivering straight to your inbox every week. You can subscribe to it here.
Thank you to everyone who sent kind words about last week’s post—I truly appreciate it! As promised, your Weekly Dose of Irish will arrive here and in your inbox every Wednesday.
Now, grab a cuppa, get cosy, and let’s dive in!
Looking for that perfect Irish gift? I have put together ten perfect Irish gifts on Amazon. Just double-check the shipping time before you order.
Did You Know?
Did you know that Christmas in Ireland was traditionally celebrated with a lighted candle placed in the window? This beautiful custom symbolizes a warm Irish welcome for strangers and even the Holy Family seeking shelter. It’s a tradition that dates back centuries and still brightens homes today.
Latest Updates
We’re officially just ONE week away from Christmas! And this week, I’m excited to introduce our new supporter—read on below to learn how you can dive deeper into your Irish roots.
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Irish Trivia: Christmas Edition
Question:
What is the name of the traditional Irish Christmas bread served with dried fruit and spices?
(Answer at the end of the post!)
Christmas at the Cliffs of Moher
Christmas at the Cliffs of Moher is pure magic. While the weather might be a bit brisk, the cliffs are quieter during the holidays, offering a peaceful moment to soak in one of Ireland’s most iconic views. Picture the frosty air, dramatic waves crashing below, and a view that feels straight out of a Christmas postcard.
(Insert a stunning image of the Cliffs here.)
Irish Joke of the Week
Here’s one to bring a smile this Christmas:
An Irish dad calls his son in London two weeks before Christmas and says,
“I hate to ruin your day, but your mother and I have decided to divorce.”
“Dad, what are you talking about?” the son exclaims.
“We just can’t stand the sight of each other anymore,” the dad replies. “Now, you call your sister and let her know.”
Panicking, the son calls his sister in Leeds, who absolutely loses it. “Divorce? No way! Leave this to me.”
She calls their dad straight away. “You are NOT getting divorced! Don’t do a single thing until I get there. I’m calling my brother, and we’ll both be home tomorrow!”
The dad hangs up, turns to his wife with a chuckle, and says,
“Well, that’s Christmas sorted—they’re coming home and paying for their own flights!”
Irish Poem of the Week: ‘A Cradle Song’ by Padraic Colum
This week’s featured poem, A Cradle Song by Padraic Colum, perfectly captures the spirit of Christmas. It’s a tender reflection on rural Irish life and the nativity, full of warmth and reverence for the season.
A Cradle Song
By Padraic Colum
O men from the fields,
Come gently within.
Tread softly, softly,
O men coming in.
Mavourneen is going
From me and from you,
Where Mary will fold him
With mantle of blue!
Answer to Irish Trivia
Answer: Barmbrack!
This traditional Irish bread, filled with dried fruit and spices, is enjoyed year-round but gets a festive twist at Christmas.
A Note from Stephen, Founder of Irish Around the World
For those wondering who’s behind all this craic—hi, I’m Stephen Palmer from Co. Cork! While it may look like this website is run by a full team of Irish enthusiasts, it’s actually just me.
I started Irish Around the World in 2013 as a way to connect Irish people globally. It’s grown into a community of over 70,000 members, and I’m so grateful for all your support over the years.
Want to join the fun? Follow us on Facebook or sign up for the weekly newsletter here: Join Irish Around the World
Final Thoughts
Thank you for reading this week’s Weekly Dose of Irish! As Christmas approaches, may your home be filled with warmth, laughter, and plenty of craic.
Until next week,
Slán agus beannacht,
Stephen
P.S. Don’t forget to invite your friends to join the Weekly Dose of Irish! Share this link with them: Irish Around the World