The numbers are in!!
Christmas is a time for traditions—some we’ve cherished since we were kids and others we’ve picked up along the way. Whether it’s rewatching the cheesiest festive films or braving the cold in a Christmas jumper that lights up like a disco ball, we all have those little rituals that make this time of year magical.
But have you ever wondered which traditions are most popular in your county? A recent survey of Irish consumers done by PayPal has revealed the festive favourites from across the country, and honestly, we’re feeling the Christmas buzz just reading them!
The Top of the Pops
Across Ireland, the survey found that the most popular tradition is catching up with friends you might not see the rest of the year. A whopping 70% of respondents said dinner or drinks with those once-a-year pals is a must during the festive season.
Hot on its heels is wearing the beloved Christmas jumper—or onesie if you’re feeling adventurous—coming in at 69%. And, of course, no Irish Christmas would be complete without settling down to watch The Late Late Toy Show, with 62% of people tuning in (and probably crying at least once).
Donating to charity and leaving treats out for Santa rounded out the top five, with more than half of us keeping these heartwarming traditions alive.
A county-by-county breakdown of Christmas cheer
It’s no surprise that different parts of the country have their own unique festive traditions.
Here are some highlights:
Cavan is seriously social, with 91% of people prioritising dinner or drinks with friends.
Longford is leading the charge for festive fashion, with 92% of locals embracing the Christmas jumper or onesie trend.
In Monaghan, it’s all about dropping a tin of biscuits to the neighbours and Christmas shopping on December 8th. Can we move there, please?
Waterford keeps it sweet, with 84% of people combining Christmas jumpers with treats for Santa.
And in Kerry, 74% wouldn’t miss The Late Late Toy Show for the world.
Whatever your county’s festive favourite, one thing’s for sure—Irish Christmas traditions are as charming and varied as the accents you’ll hear at the pub during those catch-ups.
New traditions for a modern Christmas
Of course, some traditions are brand new, with over 40% of us indulging in Christmas movie marathons (yes, that includes all three Home Alone films; not just the first two). Nearly 40% are buying presents for their pets—because why wouldn’t you spoil your furry family members?
And then there’s the Christmas Eve box, which 30% have embraced, and the rise of virtual gatherings and digital Christmas cards, each enjoyed by 22%. It’s clear we’re finding creative ways to keep the festive spirit alive, even when loved ones are far away.
No matter how you celebrate this year, the survey shows that Irish people are keeping traditions alive while adding new ones into the mix. So whether you’re donning your tackiest jumper or sharing a tin of biscuits with your neighbour, one thing’s for sure—Christmas in Ireland is full of heart.
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Research conducted by Censuswide in November 2024 and involved 1,000 consumers across Ireland.
