Christmas is upon us! Join us in getting ready to celebrate with a look at the top five Irish Christmas songs that everyone knows.
Ireland is a land rich with tradition, and Christmas traditions are no exception. One of the most cherished aspects of Irish Christmas celebrations is the music.
It’s no secret that Ireland and music go hand in hand, so it’s no surprise that many of these songs have become hits all over the country and elsewhere around the world.
These songs have a unique appeal that captivates the hearts of listeners around the world. In this article, we’ll explore the top five Irish Christmas songs that everyone knows, showcasing the cultural richness and festive spirit of the Emerald Isle.
IB4UD’s fun facts about Irish Christmas songs:
- ‘Fairytale of New York’ is probably the most famous Irish Christmas song as it is sung and celebrated worldwide.
- ‘The Wexford Carol’ is believed to be based on a 12th-century Irish poem written by Nahum Tate.
- Belfast boasts a vibrant choral tradition, with numerous choirs performing Christmas songs during the holiday season.
- George Millar, a member of the Irish Rovers, has written several original Irish Christmas songs that have gained popularity over the years.
- Many Irish Christmas songs, like the ‘Enniscorthy Carol’, beautifully depict the nativity story, keeping the true meaning of the season alive.
- Singer-songwriter, Danny O’Flaherty, has contributed to the Irish Christmas song repertoire with his soulful renditions.
5. The Wexford Carol −a timeless classic
Also known as the ‘Enniscorthy Carol’ thanks to its origins in Enniscorthy, County Wexford, ‘The Wexford Carol’ is one Irish Christmas song that any Irish person will have fond memories of.
Like many traditional Irish Christmas songs, the topic of this festive tune is the nativity of Jesus Christ.
Based on the style and lyrics, it is likely that this piece of music was composed sometime around the 15thor 16thcentury. However, one of the most popular renditions of ‘A Wexford Carol’ comes from the beautiful vocals of Julie Andrews.
A snippet of the song lyrics are as follows:
“Good people all, this Christmas time
Consider well and bear in mind
What our good God for us has done
In sending his beloved sonWith Mary holy we should pray
To God with love this Christmas Day
In Bethlehem upon that morn
There was a blessed Messiah bornSee AlsoNine of the best Irish Christmas songs to get you in the festive spirit11 Best Irish Christmas Songs (2023 Guide)Essential Irish Christmas Songs for the Best Festive PlaylistDie besten irischen Weihnachtslieder für deine PlaylistNear Bethlehem did shepherds keep
Their flocks of lambs and feeding sheep
To whom God’s angels did appear
Which put the shepherds in great fear”.
4. Christmas in Killarney –a beautiful melody
One of the lesser-known, but still beautiful, gems is ‘Christmas in Killarney’. This festive tune captures the joy of the holiday season and paints a vivid picture of the beautiful town of Killarney.
With lyrics that transport you to the heart of Ireland, it’s no wonder this song remains a holiday favourite.
SEE ALSO: 32 Irish songs: the most famous song from every county of Ireland.
3. Christmas the Way I Remember, the High Kings –remembering Irish traditions
While Ireland is known for its traditional, old-school, classic Christmas carols, it also has a sprinkling of modern Christmas songs that we know and love.
‘Christmas the Way I Remember’ is a beautiful track released in 2019 about the traditions of many Irish homes and homes around the world at Christmastime.
The presents, the frost outside, the warmth of the fire, and the hugs and love of your family are all the things that make Christmas what it is. The singer says, “I’m coming home, back to the place I love, I’m coming home this December”.
RELATED READ: Top 10 Irish CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS.
2. Silent Night, Sinead O’Connor –hauntingly beautiful
While the Irish have created an abundance of amazing Christmas tunes, they have also covered some classics, too.
The late Sinead O’Connor was one of Ireland’s best and most treasured musical artists, and her unparalleled vocals, while sung softly, give this classic Christmas song a whole new depth never heard before.
1. Fairytale of New York, the Pogues and Kirsty MacColl –the most famous Irish Christmas song of all time
While many entries on our list have deep roots in tradition, ‘Fairytale of New York’ by the Pogues and Kirsty MacColl stands as a modern classic.
This iconic ballad narrates the tale of an Irish immigrant in New York and has become a staple in Christmas playlists worldwide. It’s arguably the most famous Irish Christmas song of all time and, in our opinion, the best.
READ NEXT: The 10 best Irish songs of all time, ranked.
Notable mentions
The Bells of Dublin by the Chieftains: This album features collaborations with various artists and offers a unique blend of traditional and contemporary Irish Christmas songs.
Christmas in Ireland by James Cavanaugh: This album showcases the festive spirit of Ireland through a collection of beloved Irish Christmas songs.
‘Curoo, Curoo’ by the Clancy Brothers: Believed to date back to the 1800s, this traditional Irish Christmas carol was graced with a wonderful rendition by the Irish folk band the Clancy Brothers.
‘Whilst Shepherds Watched Their Flock by Night’: The lyrics of this classic Christmas song can be attributed to poet and lyricist Nahum Tate.
Your questions answered about Irish Christmas songs
What makes Irish Christmas songs unique?
The use of traditional Irish instruments, like violins and tin whistles, and the unique lilt of Irish voices are what make Irish Christmas songs different from the rest.
Are there any famous Irish Christmas carol choirs?
Ireland has some internationally recognised choirs, such as the National Chamber Choir of Ireland. You can actually buy their Christmas album, On Christmas Night.
Are there modern Irish Christmas songs, or are they all traditional?
Most Irish Christmas songs are traditional, but the likes of ‘Fairytale of New York’ is a modern classic that is sung and adored around the world.
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