Limerick IFA celebrates Nollaig na mBan in Adare

WITH a jazzy Christmas playlist and a mulled wine reception, Limerick IFA hosted its annual lunch to mark the traditional Nollaig na mBan, also known as Little Christmas.

Organised by Limerick IFA’s farm family committee, the event took place this Friday at the Woodlands House Hotel in Adare.

January 6 calls for celebration as it is the twelfth and final day of Christmas. In many cultures, Little Christmas is known as the Feast of the Epiphany, which refers to the visit of the wise men to worship baby Jesus. 

But, in Ireland, it is traditionally known as Nollaig na mBan – also called Women’s Christmas. For many, it marks a day off for women after the busyness of the Christmas period.

On Nollaig na mBan, traditional roles were reversed and men would take over household duties, while women would meet up to share a well-deserved drink around a Christmas cake with their friends.

In recent years, many organisations and charities have used this day in a bid to celebrate women’s contributions.

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Prior to the event, Mary Breen, Chair of Limerick IFA’s farm family committee, commented: “It is the first time since 2020 that we are having our Nollaig na mBan celebration lunch due to Covid, so we are hoping to have a big crowd and meeting old friends and new.”

Limerick attendee, Eileen Hannon, told Limerick Live she was happy to be here surrounded by friends to celebrate the very special day that is Nollaig na mBan.

“We look forward to enjoying time out together, and the men folks at home can look after themselves,” she smiled.