Nollaig na mBan
Published on 4th January 2023
"God rested on the seventh day, but women didn't rest until the twelfth day of Christmas."
The twelfth and final day of Christmas, January 6th, is known in Ireland as Nollaig na mBan or Women’s Christmas. Goose was the traditional meat served on Women's Christmas.The custom was that women made social calls to the homes of their friends and neighbours and enjoyed tea and the last of the Christmas cake.
The idea of Nollaig na mBan might seem twee but the day is not filled with the patronising umbra of its past. Galas and charity fundraisers for women's causes are part of the lineup; and many organisations have embraced the day to celebrate women's contributions.
Nollaig na mBan is in vogue with hotels and restaurants advertising ladies’ afternoon teas and evenings out, accompanied by a glass of prosecco. The Irish Writers' Centre run an annual event.
James Joyce’s short story The Dead from Dubliners (1914) takes place on the Epiphany. Browse our online Dublin City Libraries catalogue here.
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