Ireland

Image source: Flags of the World. CIA: The World Factbook. Retrieved November 2, 2010, from []

= __IRELAND __ =

[|Christmas]
Christmas in Ireland is celebrated with many of the same traditions as the United States, with charming local variations. People in Ireland begin celebrating around December 6 through decorations and installing of trees, but the official Christmas season is December 24 through January 6 (Epiphany). It is an important time for families to gather together, enjoy good food, and exchange gifts. Children are visited by Santa Claus but he doesn't leave gifts under the tree here. Instead, pillowcases or other sacks are left at the foot of children's beds and filled with Santa's gifts on Christmas Eve night. Another tradition unique to Ireland is the Candle in the Window. Irish homes place a candle (or often electric light these days) in the window to serve as a beacon for Mary and Joseph as they traveled and sought shelter. Priests in Penal times also used this light as an indication that it was safe to practice Mass at this place. The source used in the link above is the project of an independent Western traveler who fell in love with Ireland and has spent years traveling and chronicling the history and people of Ireland. media type="youtube" key="nyIL29KgkbM?fs=1" height="385" width="640"

The Irish Christmas Cake
One of the sweetest traditions for an Irish Christmas, the Christmas cake is not your typical fruitcake though it is laced with lots of fruits and some nuts! True Irish Christmas cake is baked days in advance with many of the ingredients being soaked in Irish whiskey.  Image source: Christmas cake time (2009, December 13). Retrieved November 3, 2010, from http://maidennz.wordpress.com/page/2/

**References** Ireland-Now.com. //Christmas.// Retrieved November 3, 2010, from []. Peet, Edythe. //Christmas Cake Recipe & Instructions Below.// IrishAbroad.com. Retrieved November 3, 2010, from []

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