One in five Irish people will go to the pub on St Stephen's Day, survey says
Eva Osborne
One in five people will go to the pub on Thursday (St Stephen's Day), according to a new survey uncovering the nation's favourite ways to celebrate December 26th.
16 percent will go shopping and four percent will take a wintry dip in the sea, according to the research from Lottoland.
The survey showed that St Stephen's Day celebrations are dominated by enjoying Christmas Day dinner leftovers (46 per cent), visiting friends and family (41 per cent), doing absolutely nothing at home (31 per cent), and watching sports on TV (29 per cent).
Going to a Christmas panto (six per cent) and taking part in ‘Hunting for the Wren’ (four per cent) are two of the least popular St Stephen's Day options.
The top St. Stephen’s Day traditions are:
- Relishing leftovers: Across all demographics, tucking into Christmas dinner leftovers is the most widely-embraced tradition;
- Men and their sport: Nearly three times as many men than women will watch sports on TV at home and twice as many intend on going to the pub as their way to extend the festive cheer;
- Shopping: Shopping has emerged as a popular activity, particularly among a younger crowd. Notably, shopping habits are evenly split between men and women, showcasing an equal enthusiasm for retail therapy whilst those aged 18-34 are leading the way in bagging post-Christmas deals;
- Relaxation preferences: Those aged 35 and older were more likely to focus on family visits and savouring the calm of the day;
- Dublin swims and pantomimes: Dubliners are more likely to go for a Stephen's Day swim, go to the pub, and go to a Christmas panto than any of the other regions in the country.
Lottoland’s vice president of global corporate affairs, Laura Pearson, said “St. Stephen’s Day is a unique part of Ireland’s festive calendar, blending relaxation with community connection.
"This survey sheds light on the enduring importance of traditions and how people across generations make this day special.”
