Nollaig na mBan, or Women’s Christmas, is a unique tradition in Ireland, historically celebrated as a day of rest and recognition for those who need it after the demands of the holiday season. The day, January 6, is marked as a broader celebration of achievements and empowerment.
This year, the spirit of Nollaig na mBan is beautifully embodied in events all around the country, including Empower Her, a new portrait exhibition now open at St. Peter’s Visitor Centre in Cork.
While the portraits stand alone as compelling works of art, the exhibition also includes words of wisdom from each woman. One such example is that of Black queer presenter and journalist Zainab Boladale who is photographed and quoted in the exhibition as saying: “A lot of young people are worried about the future and worried about the future and worried about the outcome of their dreams. Take it easy and don’t overthink everything.”
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The work also emphasises the power of connection; while the women were photographed individually, an underlying sense of sisterhood began to emerge as the project unfolded. This shared spirit of resilience and empowerment resonates throughout the exhibition.
Nollaig na mBan celebrations continue elsewhere, including at the Irish Writers Centre in Dublin, which will hold its annual event. Featured speakers include poets Jessica Traynor and Anne Tannam, novelists Sophie White and Nuala O’Connor, and multidisciplinary artists such as Zoé Basha and Chandrika Narayanan-Mohan. This gathering encourages attendees to exchange wrapped books by female authors, fostering an atmosphere of community and literary celebration. Complimentary drinks will round out an evening that reimagines the essence of Women’s Christmas for the modern age.
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Elsewhere, Foxgluv, a space for underrepresented creatives, is celebrating its two-year anniversary with a special Nollaig na mBan event on January 6. The group has teamed up with Pawn Shop in Dublin to host an open decks night for FLINTA DJs, offering 30-minute slots on a first come first served basis from 9pm until midnight.
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Whether you plan to celebrate through art, literature, or reflection, Nollaig na mBan continues to inspire new generations while honouring its deep-rooted tradition of recognising women’s achievements. With events like Empower Her and gatherings at the Writers Centre, the day is a powerful reminder of the extraordinary contributions of women in Ireland and beyond.
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