Little Christmas, Nollaig na mBan or The Feast of the Epiphany, whatever you call it, January 6th has a special place in the heart of many Irish people. Traditionally, the date was an opportunity to celebrate the women of Ireland who worked so hard over the Christmas period while also being the last day of the twelve days of Christmas, and the day on which the Three Wise Men visited a now famous crib. Sadly (or happily depending on your persuasion) January 6th also marks the day that Christmas decorations are taken down and packed away for yet another year. Whatever January 6th means to you, here are some ways to mark the occasion.

Main featured image: McGill Library via Unsplash.com

Knightsbrook Resort, Co Meath

Grab the girls and head to Knightsbrook Resort in Co Meath for the Nollaig na mBan getaway package on January 6th. The package includes one night bed and breakfast, a festive afternoon tea, a luxury facial and a spa gift. The package also includes full access to the onsite gym and leisure centre along with full use of the Thermal Suites in The River Spa. Prices from €298 for two sharing in a double room. www.knightsbrook.com

Nollaig Na mBan 2022: Emergence, Empowerment, Evolution at The Irish Writers Centre

Celebrating the achievements of women in Ireland and internationally, this annual event will be continuing the spirit of Nollaig na mBan in 2022 virtually, bringing the sense of community and connection to your homes. The theme for 2022 is Emergence, Empowerment, Evolution; three strands that represent the present, past and future of women in society, with readings and discussions on these subjects. Tickets are available from Eventbrite.

The All-Female TEDx

To celebrate Nollaig na mBan on January 6th 2022, a free, virtual TEDx Talks event featuring all women speakers will be streamed from Merrion Square. The organiser of the event, Áine Lenihan, said she hopes to make it an annual celebration of the old Irish festive holiday. Speakers already lined up for the event include Irish menopause coach and workplace educator Catherine O’Keeffe (pictured), communications consultant Sally Murphy, and psychologist and author Susannah Healy, with more speakers have yet to be announced.
www.tedxmerrionsquarewomen.com

Nollaig na mBan Ladies Lunch at The Royal Saint George Yacht Club, Dun Laoghaire

On January 8th, hockey player Anna O’Flanagan will be the guest speaker for RSGYC Nollaig na mBan Ladies Lunch. Three years ago, Anna and her green army were awarded the silver medal at the Vitality Hockey Women’s World Cup London which led to the Irish women securing Olympic qualification for the first time in Irish history. The event kicks off at 1pm and will be followed by a three-course lunch. Tickets are priced at €40 per person and are available from www.rsgyc.ie. 

Lunch at The Ivy, Dublin 2

The ultimate venue for a post-Christmas get together with the females in your life, The Ivy delivers that festive feeling in spades with its Art-Deco detailing, polished marble floors and striking burnt orange banquettes. Kick off the celebrations with a glass of Laurent-Perrier Cuveé Rosé before tucking into roasted scallops, truffle arancini or crispy duck salad. www.theivydublin.com