Revealed: The most popular names for babies born around Christmas last year

The most popular names for Irish babies born in December of 2023 in Cork and around the country have been revealed by the Central Statistics Office (CSO).

There were 75 babies born on Christmas Day last year, of which 38 were boys and 37 were girls.

While the CSO said it was unable to reveal the names chosen for babies born on Christmas Day, it said there seemed to be a seasonal influence when it comes to choosing a name for girls born in December.

The most popular names chosen for baby girls in December 2023 were Holly (30) and Éabha (30), both in joint first place; followed by Sadie (28); with Sophie and Grace (both 27) in joint fourth position.

When it comes to the most popular names chosen for baby boys born throughout December 2023, Jack (53) was the most popular name, in line with all-year round trends, followed by Noah (46); Liam (33); Cillian (31); with Theo and Rían (both 28) jointly in fifth position. In December 2022, four of the five names chosen for boys had a biblical influence, with only Noah making that connection in December 2023.

With 75 babies born in Ireland last Christmas Day, it was 38 babies fewer than were born on the same day in 2013, marking a 33.6% decrease on the same day 10 years ago.

In 2013 there were 113 babies born on Christmas Day, 65 boys and 48 girls.

For boys born throughout the whole of December 2013, the most popular names were Jack (69); James (55); Noah (54); Conor (50); and Daniel (49).

The most popular names chosen for baby girls in December 2013 were Holly (83); Sophie (50); Ella (45); Emily (42); and Lucy and Amelia jointly (38).

Commenting on the release, Seán O’Connor, Statistician for Vital Statistics, said the most popular names for babies born in December 2023 showed a seasonal influence when it comes to naming girls.

“Throughout the whole of 2023, there were 104 girls born that were named Holly, a name that ranked 50th in terms of popularity, but it was the joint top name, along with Éabha, for girls born in December 2023 with 30 girls called Holly,” he said.

“Holly has been the most popular or joint most popular name for baby girls born in December for the last 10 years.” 

The list of most popular Irish baby names in 2024 is due to be published by the CSO in February 2025.