COMING HOME TO Ireland at Christmas is a wonderful thing to do.
Sure, your family and friends might be the best part of it all, but there are some bits of Christmas magic that only the country itself can provide.
Of course, not everyone is able to come home for the Christmas season. If you’re home, here are the things that will make it special. If you’re still away, here’s a small taste of what it would be like. And remember – there’s always next year.
The airport arrivals gate
Emotional. Having your loved ones waiting for you as you come through the double doors in the airport is a genuienly special moment that every emigrant should experience at least once.
Christmas lights in town
Adding a little cheer to even the most frantic of last-minute shopping.
The Brown Thomas window
Alright, so we’re not exactly in line to compete with Selfridges over in London, but it’s still pretty special.
The familiar ads on the telly
Barrys anyone? Sure, some ads might be the same around the world – but it’s more about seeing them come on the telly at home for the first time in the run-up to the big day.
The bustle
There’s nothing like the hustle and bustle of your hometown in the run up to Christmas. Wrapped up warm in your hat and scarf, battling your way down Henry St, or Patrick St, or Shop St, buying a few last-minute crackers or selection boxes.
Your stocking fillers from Penneys
You might be able to get all many of fancy notions stocking fillers abroad, but nothing really beats a new pair of cosy fleece pyjamas and an unbelievably fluffy dressing gown on Christmas morning.
Seeing Santa set off on RTE
Although it might be a while since the clip of Santa on Christmas Eve had us racing up to bed, too excited to sleep, it’s still a pretty wonderful thing that RTE do. Long may it continue. (This in-depth reports on the science behind how exactly Santa delivers to all the houses in just one night is unmissable).
If you’re back for it, welcome home and enjoy it! Feel free to share this with any emigrants who can’t make it home this Christmas, to let them know you’re thinking of them. Nollaig shona daoibh, have a great one.
