Ireland

On Christmas Eve, an Irish home is very inviting. Traditionally holly and ivy decorations abound, the smell of caraway seed bread fills the air, a candle glows in a window to welcome the Holy Pilgrims, and children prepare for Santa. On St. Stephen’s Day, December 26, many observe the Wren Boys Procession, when costume participants go door-to-door reciting a poem and collecting treats.

The Celtic knot work adorning this Santa’s robe is an ancient art form. Its origins and meaning are unclear, but many believe the patterns–never-ending loops that cross over and under–symbolize life’s continuity and connectedness.

According to legend, another ancient Irish symbol, the shamrock, was used by St. Patrick in the fifth century to explain the doctrine of the Trinity. The three-leaved plant that was once believed to have mystical powers is now one of the most recognized emblems of Ireland.

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