Little Christmas
Celebrating Little Christmas: An Irish Tradition We Cherish
As the festive season winds down, there’s one more enchanting celebration to enjoy before bidding farewell to the holidays. Little Christmas, or "Nollaig na mBan" (Women’s Christmas), is a cherished tradition in Ireland that takes place on January 6th. This delightful holiday marks the official end of the Christmas season and is a time for relaxation, reflection, and revelry—particularly for the women who worked so hard to make the holidays magical for their families.
The Origins of Little Christmas
Little Christmas has deep roots in Irish culture and history. Traditionally, it was a day when women would take a well-deserved break from their household duties and come together to enjoy a meal, share stories, and celebrate the season. While the men took over the household responsibilities for the day, women gathered with friends and family to relax and recharge.
In some parts of Ireland, Little Christmas is more prominently celebrated as the "Feast of the Epiphany," a significant Christian feast marking the arrival of the Three Wise Men to honor the infant Jesus in Bethlehem. This day holds deep religious meaning, and homes remain adorned with Christmas decorations until its conclusion, symbolizing the culmination of the holiday season.
How Little Christmas is Celebrated Today
Today, Little Christmas is seen as a time to come together and enjoy the spirit of community and connection. In Ireland, many families and friends mark the occasion with special meals, music, and perhaps even a visit to the local pub. It’s a day to treasure the company of loved ones and take a moment to appreciate the joy of the season.
Our Wish for You
Here at McGovern Irish Dance, we hope you have the chance to savor the charm of Little Christmas. Whether it’s by sharing a cup of tea with friends or enjoying some quiet time with family, may this day bring a sense of peace and joy to your holiday season.
Studio Classes Resume in January
As we celebrate Little Christmas, we also look forward to welcoming everyone back to the studio to kick off another exciting year of Irish dance. Mark your calendars for our 2025 start-back dates:
Dayton and Troy Studios: Classes resume on Tuesday, January 7
Fort Wayne Studio: Classes resume on Thursday, January 9
Lafayette Studio: Classes resume on Saturday, January 11
We can’t wait to see all of our dancers back in action, ready to tackle new steps, routines, and performances in the year ahead.
A Look Ahead
As we gear up for 2025, let’s carry the spirit of Little Christmas with us: a time to appreciate the little moments, celebrate our community, and embrace the joy of dancing together. We’re excited to see all of our dancers back in the studio soon, refreshed and ready to shine.
From all of us at McGovern Irish Dance, Nollaig na mBan shona daoibh — Happy Little Christmas to you all!
