Christmas in Roscrea, Tipperary, Ireland

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

Roscrea, Tipperary

How long have you lived there?

7 months

If locals celebrate Christmas or Hanukkah where you are living now, how is it celebrated differently?

The traditional Christmas foods are different. Hard to find the ingredients for the things we would consider traditional at home. Amazing how they have "black Friday" even though they don't celebrate Thanksgiving! Not as much exterior decorating. But otherwise, mostly similar to US.

If locals do not celebrate Christmas or Hanukkah (and you do), what do you do for the holidays?

Not applicable.

Do you mix your own traditions with those of your expat location? If so, describe.

We did.. We decorated the outside of the house. Still trying to find a u-cut Christmas tree lot as we are used to. Seems like most people use artificial trees.

What is your favorite thing about celebrating Christmas or Hanukkah in your overseas location?

Our town is so quaint, with a castle in the middle, it looks like something that could be on a Christmas card. The Christmas Fair held in the courtyard of the castle looked like a fairytale.

Beside family and friends, what do you miss from home during the holidays?

The ease of shopping on line. At home, I did most of Christmas shopping that way, but not a lot of availability here. Most online stores are British and often will not deliver to Ireland.

How is New Year's typically celebrated in your expat location?

Similar to at home - we have the US Football station and will spend the day as usual - watching football, reading Christmas books and eating left overs!