Much may have changed over the years but this brilliant tradition of celebrating the women in your life is alive and well
Women’s Little Christmas, or Nollaig na Mban as it’s also known, occurs on 6 January and is celebrated in many parts of Ireland. Traditionally, it was a day where women got together and enjoyed each other’s company, forgetting about the daily chores. And while times may have moved on, it’s day that many still love to celebrate as a great start to the New Year.
So gather your gals and take a look at these fabulous options to mark the illustrious occasion!
A rejuvenating retreat – Co Cork
Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa, located just outside the colourful West Cork town of Clonakilty, is keeping this fun tradition alive and marking Women’s Little Christmas with a special package. The resort, located right on the Atlantic Ocean, is well known for its fabulous views, seawater treatments and therapy pool and delicious locally-sourced food. The newly opened yoga studio only adds to the sense of wellbeing that this wonderful retreat offers. Add in a Gin Afternoon Tea with your pals and you have the perfect get away! See inchydoneyisland.com or call 023 88 33143 for more details.
A glamorous ball – Co Meath
We all deserve to feel like a queen after the stress of Christmas and now you can at the Knightsbrook Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort. Find your longest, most elaborate gúna and prepare to be treated like royalty for the evening. Guests will have prosecco and canapés at 7pm, followed by a three course dinner and live music by Laura Colgan and Hazel O’Connor. There will be spot prizes on the night as well as a 360 photobooth. What’s not to love? Click here for more details.
A night of jazz – Dublin city
As part of the Nollaig na mBan festival, two of Ireland’s pre-eminent jazz artists have combined their considerable talents to create a magical night of music. Honor Heffernan, a superb interpreter of the American songbook and contemporary song, returns to jazz after her highly acclaimed Whistling Girl theatre show. Carole Nelson is a pianist and composer best known for her work with Zrazy and, more recently the Carole Nelson Trio. Together they bring their joy of making music to the stage, accompanied by Cormac O’Brien on bass for this Nollaig na mBan concert. Click here for more details.
Dinner, drinks and entertainment – Co Waterford
There’s nothing quite like getting your dinner served to you in beautiful surroundings with your closest pals by your side. And that’s exactly what’s on offer at The Park Hotel Dungarvan on 6 Jan to celebrate Nollaig na mBan. You’ll be treated to a canapés and prosecco reception followed by a four-course menu after which you can kick back and enjoy some live entertainment. Tickets cost €40 per person. Click here for more information.
A sea swim for charity – All around Ireland
If you’re near a body of water, do a cold dip on 6 January to show support and solidarity for women escaping domestic violence. Women’s Aid is asking people to take on the challenge to help raise funds for their services which help women in crisis who need support. And, even if you don’t have time to register, you can still get a group together to have a fun swim in the sea, take a picture and raise awareness for this great cause on a day that celebrates the power of female solidarity.
