Ah, the most wonderful time of the year has arrived! As school winds down and workplaces grant us a well-deserved respite, Christmas unfolds its magic, casting a joyous spell on us all. 

 

Here at Rí na Mara, the holiday season is particularly lively, whether we’re showcasing our products at the Galway Christmas market or participating in the National craft fair. Like you, we eagerly anticipate the warmth of familial bonds and the cosy embrace of winter. In the spirit of Irish holiday traditions, here’s an extended list of delightful activities to make your Christmas truly special.

 

  1. Gather ‘Round the Turf Fire with Loved Ones

 

There’s nothing quite like the warmth of a turf fire and the joy of spending quality time with family. Make the most of these festive days by huddling, discussing the Christmas menu, organising family Kris Kindle, and sharing stories. While the menu might remain somewhat consistent, the charm lies in the collaborative effort to plan and prepare. In our household, the younger generation often excels at creating delightful distractions from the kitchen duties, yet never fails to savour the festive feast.

 

  1. Board Games and Christmas Stories for All Ages

Christmas isn’t complete without a healthy dose of friendly competition and heartwarming tales. Engage the family with classic board games like Charades, Five-second Rule, Trivial Pursuit, or Cluedo – the perfect recipe for hours of laughter and bonding. For the little ones, establish the tradition of reading timeless Christmas stories such as ‘A Visit from Saint Nicholas‘ or ‘The Snowman,’ perhaps while donning matching Christmas jumpers for a memorable family photo.

 

  1. Embrace a Seaweed Winter Morning Skincare Ritual

Amidst the hustle and bustle, do not neglect your skin’s well-being. Kickstart your day with a nourishing skincare routine using Rí na Mara natural beauty products. Begin with a gentle cleanse using our purifying micellar water, followed by the application of facial serum and face cream. If the festivities extend into the night, combat tired, puffy eyes with Rí na Mara deeply conditioning eye cream. Treat your skin right; it will glow as much as the holiday lights.

 

  1. Movie Nights: Classic and Hidden Gems

Create a cosy family tradition by watching classic Christmas movies at home. Whether it’s the timeless ‘Home Alone’, the whimsical ‘Elf’ or the heartwarming ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’, ‘Wizard of Oz’ and ‘Sound of Music’. There’s a film for every taste. For those seeking something new, consider lesser-known gems like ‘The Polar Express,’ ‘Arthur Christmas,’ ‘Klaus,’ ‘Jingle Jangle,’ or the unconventional ‘Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas’ for a unique cinematic experience.

 

  1. Indulge in a Nighttime Seaweed Bath Spa

Amidst the holiday chaos, take a moment for yourself with a soothing dried seaweed bath. Rí na Mara’s wild organic Fucus Serratus Seaweed, hand-harvested off the West Coast of Ireland, promises a rejuvenating experience. Transform your bathroom into a spa with scented candles, run a hot bath, and immerse yourself in the mineral-rich seaweed soak. Top it off with a detoxifying face mask from our premium brand; Irish Organics for radiant skin throughout the festive season.

 

  1. Refresh with a Winter Walk in Nature

Escape the holiday hustle by taking a rejuvenating walk in nature. Whether alone or with the whole family, explore scenic spots like Spiddal Prom, Salthill Prom, Barna Woods, or Diamond Hill in Connemara National Park. Bundle up in weather-appropriate clothing, and upon your return, reward yourself with a nourishing seaweed-infused soup for added taste and nutrients.

 

  1. Dive into Cold Water Therapy on Christmas Day

For the adventurous souls, consider a refreshing Christmas day swim. Join the ranks of those braving the elements for a dip in Spiddal Beach or participate in organized charity swims like COPE Galway’s quick dips in Salthill from 20th – 26th December. It’s a unique and invigorating way to celebrate the season while supporting a good cause.

 

As we bid you Seasons Greetings, we hope these suggestions infuse your Christmas with joy, relaxation, and a touch of Irish charm. Did we mention an activity you already love, or did we miss a gem? Share your thoughts with us in person at the Galway Christmas Market until the 22nd of December. Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!