The Tradition of the Wren Boys
The Wren Boys tradition is one of Ireland’s oldest customs, dating back hundreds of years. Traditionally celebrated on St. Stephen’s Day (26th December), groups of people would dress in colourful costumes and go from house to house, playing music, singing and performing short plays. This custom was originally linked to the symbolic “hunting of the wren,” a small bird that featured in Irish folklore. Over time, the practice evolved into a joyful celebration of music, storytelling and community spirit, keeping alive the rich heritage of Irish culture. Today, groups like Cleamairí Feirste – The Belfast Wren Boys continue this tradition by sharing stories, songs and drama that connect us to our roots.
Today, our P5–P7 pupils enjoyed a fantastic cultural experience as Cleamairí Feirste – The Belfast Wren Boys visited Windmill Integrated Primary School. Through a lively mix of drama, music, and singing, they brought to life the legendary story of Cú Chulainn, one of Ireland’s greatest heroes.
The performance was both entertaining and educational, giving our pupils a deeper appreciation of Irish heritage and the art of storytelling. It was wonderful to see the children so engaged and inspired by this unique tradition.
A huge thank you to Seán Anton Ó Conalláin from Mid-Ulster Council for making this memorable event possible. Opportunities like this help our pupils connect with history, language, and the arts in a way that sparks creativity and pride in their culture.
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