December 26, 1871

St. Stephen’s Day or the Feast of St. Stephen is celebrated in Ireland as one of nine official public holidays.  It has been celebrated in Ireland for hundreds of years and became a public holiday following the Bank Holidays Act, 1871.  This day honors Stephen who is historically recognized as the first Christian martyr after being stoned to death. The day in Irish is known as “La an Dreoilin” or Wren’s Day. Wrenboys or mummers parade still in some parts of Ireland. A Mummer’s festival is held on this day every year in New Inn, Co. Galway and Dingle, Co. Kerry.