Traditional Irish Christmas Carols

In Ireland, Christmas is all about gathering together to celebrate the season with music, laughter, and good company and traditional Irish carols hold a special place during the festivities.

Here’s our list of top 10 traditional Irish Christmas carols…

1. Wexford Carol

One of Ireland’s oldest Christmas carols, Wexford Carol comes from County Wexford, on Ireland’s east coast, and dates back to the 12th century but its exact author is unknown, as it was passed down through oral tradition. This hauntingly beautiful tune tells the story of the nativity, drawing listeners into the peaceful wonder of Christmas night. 

Over the years, the Wexford Carol has transcended its Irish origins to become a favorite among choirs worldwide. Artists like Alison Krauss from the United States and Canada’s Loreena McKennitt have brought their versions of the traditional Irish carol to the global stage, but its roots remain in Ireland. 

2. Don Oíche Úd i mBeithil (That Night in Bethlehem)

Sung as Gaeilge (meaning in the Irish language), Don Oíche Úd i mBeithil is an Irish carol that tells the story of Bethlehem’s peaceful night. Its gentle melody makes it a favourite for candlelit moments and intimate gatherings, where the Irish language truly shines.

Like many traditional Irish carols, this song has no single attributed author but it is deeply rooted in the Irish oral and musical tradition. Whether performed by a traditional choir or during a pub singalong, this tune is one of our favourite traditional Irish Christmas carols.

3. Fairytale of New York

Although not a traditional carol, Fairytale of New York by The Pogues and Kirsty MacColl is arguably the most iconic Irish Christmas song of all time. Released in 1987, the bittersweet ballad tells the story of a couple reminiscing about their dreams and struggles against a backdrop of a snowy New York Christmas. 

In Ireland, it’s not uncommon to hear this tune belted out passionately during the Christmas season. At The Temple Bar Pub, this one always gets everyone singing, filling the room with a Christmas atmosphere!

4. Oíche Chiúin (Silent Night )

Oíche Chiúin is the Irish version of Silent Night, giving a Gaelic twist to one of the world’s most traditional Christmas carols. The Irish version maintains the traditional hymn’s tune with the lyrics translated into the Irish language. 

The calming tune of Oíche Chiúin offers a gentle reminder to pause, reflect, and share a moment of calm during the season.

5. Curoo, Curoo (The Carol of the Birds)

The Carol of the Birds, or Curoo, Curoo, is a uniquely Irish Christmas carol that tells the fun story of birds singing their praises on the night of Jesus’ birth. The lyrics of this traditional Irish carol celebrates nature’s role in Christmas, with sparrows, robins, and larks joining the chorus.

This playful tune is steeped in Irish folklore and tradition, making it a perfect choice for festive gatherings in Ireland. It’s a carol that gets toes tapping and faces smiling, perfectly capturing the lively spirit of Ireland during the festive season.

6. Bells of Dublin

Bells of Dublin is a lively Irish Christmas song that perfectly captures the magic of the season in Dublin. Made famous by The Chieftains, this carol mixes Irish music with the festive spirit, with jingling bells and an upbeat rhythm, the song paints a picture of Dublin at Christmas time. carolers singing, church bells ringing, and the streets bustling with excitement. It’s the perfect Irish Christmas carol that makes you tap your feet along to the beat.

7. Christmas in Killarney

Christmas in Killarney is an upbeat carol, full of warmth and fun, that paints a vivid picture of a traditional Irish Christmas filled with family gatherings, warm fires, and plenty of laughter. First written in 1950 by a trio of Irish-American songwriters – John Redmond, James Cavanaugh, and Frank Weldon – Christmas in Killarney has become a firm favourite in Irish-American communities. At The Temple Bar Pub, this lively tune often has everyone joining in, celebrating the magic of an Irish Christmas together.

8. While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks by Night

While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks by Night is one of the oldest traditional Irish Christmas carols, written by Dublin-born poet and hymnist Nahum Tate. Tate, who later became Poet Laureate of England in 1692, composed the song based on the nativity. Sung to various melodies over the years, the carol remains a staple of the festive season in Ireland and around the world.

9. Bells Over Belfast

Bells Over Belfast is a Irish Christmas song that captures the festive spirit of Christmas while reflecting on the city of Belfast’s history and resilience. The song paints a picture of Christmas in Belfast, with bells ringing out across the city, spreading hope and bringing people together. It’s both uplifting and emotional, making it a favourite during the holiday season. It’s often sung by choirs or enjoyed during festive gatherings, reminding everyone of the importance of community at Christmas time.

Overall, Christmas in Ireland is more than just a holiday, it’s a celebration of music, stories, and loved ones. These traditional Irish carols are made to bring the festive spirit to life.

Thank you for reading our blog ‘Traditional Irish Christmas Carols’.  If you find yourself in Dublin, pop into The Temple Bar Pub for a pint, a singalong, and a warm welcome. From all of us here at The Temple Bar Pub, Nollaig Shona Duit – Merry Christmas!