Originally published at National Catholic Register
The 12th Day of Christmas, Epiphany, has special significance in Ireland. It is known as “Little Christmas” — Nollaig Beag — or “Women’s Christmas” — Nollaig na mBan.
The tradition of this day is to recognize and appreciate the hard work the women of the Irish home put into the Christmas holiday festivities. So they are thanked and recognized — and granted a break from household chores.
Traditionally, on this day, the menfolk would take on domestic tasks and make the tea, which often included a barmbrack cake, which is a type of fruitcake. This gave women a break to rest and meet their friends and neighbors, taking time to visit people and enjoy a cuppa and the last of the Christmas cake, as well as share a gift of some candy or chocolate kept just for this day. It was deliberately purposed to reflect a culture of appreciation for the contributions of women during this festive season. The ladies might even retire to the local pub, usually the preserve of menfolk.
On Nollaig na mBan 1951, convent-school friends gather for post-Christmas catch-up.(Photo: Courtesy of Patrick J. Passmore)
Dolores Marshall of Tyrone, in the north, recalled to the Register her
