Nollaig na mBan or Women’s Little Christmas falls on January 6 every year, and while it is celebrated all over the country, the tradition is especially strong in Cork.
The celebration dates back centuries and takes place on the last night of the Christmas period. In Ireland of the 19th and early 20th Century, it was a night where women took time out from their chores and gathered socially after the Christmas season to enjoy themselves after all the hard work they put in over the Christmas period.
Historically, this day allowed women to rest after the busy holiday season, while men took on household chores and childcare for the day to acknowledge all the hard work that women put into making Christmas special.
While the meaning has changed since then thanks to greater equality, the day still serves as a celebration of female friendship, community, and solidarity, with women gathering with friends, sisters, mothers and daughters for a special day out.
Here are a few of the events and ways to celebrate Women’s Little Christmas taking place around Cork on Tuesday, January 6.
Women’s Little Christmas at Actons Hotel, Kinsale
Actons is hosting a delightful Afternoon Tea Party in its Fischer Street Restaurant on Tuesday January 6 and Saturday January 10. You can enjoy an array of teas, coffees, and delicious treats, with Traditional Afternoon Tea costing €30 per person, Sparkling Afternoon Tea for €35, and Cocktail Afternoon Tea for €40.
Pre-booking is essential, so contact the hotel on (021) 477 9900 or email res@actonshotelkinsale.com to book.
Dwyers of Cork, Washington Street
Dwyers of Cork is inviting women to celebrate Women’s Little Christmas for festive brunch and crunch, evening menus, handcrafted cocktails, and live music . Walk-ins and bookings are welcome.
Diva’s Little Christmas at The Walter Raleigh Hotel in Youghal
Taking place from 7.30pm to 11.30pm at The Walter Raleigh Hotel in Youghal, this fun night out for women features drag entertainment, sparkling wine, finger food and live performances from Lucy Loose and special guests. Tickets available from the venue.
