A town in Tipperary revives ancient 'Hunting the Wren' tradition on St Stephen’s Day

One of Ireland’s oldest seasonal customs was brought to life in Cashel on St Stephen’s morning, as musicians and spectators gathered in the town centre for the annual Hunting the Wren.

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The event, organised by Cashel Comhaltas, took place on the Plaza at 11am and drew a steady crowd despite the winter chill. Traditional music and colourful displays filled the square, creating a festive atmosphere that has long been associated with the St Stephen’s Day ritual.

In a post on his Facebook page, independent councillor Liam Browne said Cashel Comhaltas was “delighted to keep one of Ireland’s oldest traditions alive this St Stephen’s Day”. He described the gathering as an opportunity to bring “music, colour, and a bit of festive mischief” to the heart of the town.

Following the public performance, musicians continued the tradition of community outreach by visiting several local nursing homes. There, they played music for residents, sharing seasonal cheer and continuing a custom that links celebration with generosity.

Hunting the Wren is a traditional Irish folk custom closely associated with St Stephen’s Day and is observed in many parts of the country.

It typically involves groups of musicians, often known as wren boys, moving through towns and villages playing music, singing and sometimes wearing distinctive or colourful costumes.

The tradition is believed to have originated in pre Christian Ireland and is often linked to ancient Celtic rituals marking the winter solstice and the turning of the year.

In Irish folklore, the wren was regarded as the “king of the birds” and carried symbolic associations with renewal, cleverness and the natural cycle.

Historically, the custom involved the symbolic hunting of a wren, which would be carried from house to house on a decorated pole or holly bush.

Performances were given in exchange for food or small donations, which were later shared or used for community purposes. In modern celebrations, the practice is entirely symbolic and no bird is harmed.

Councillor Browne encouraged people to take part in whatever way they could, whether by singing along, listening, or enjoying the atmosphere. He said the event was “a lovely way to keep our heritage thriving and our community connected”.

He ended his message with a seasonal greeting, wishing “Nollaig shona daoibh go léir see you on the Plaza”.

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