Now a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.
It is a very special time of the year. Home and Style hopes that you’re warm, happy, and with people that you love.
And that the big man in the red suit will be dropping by.
The stockings were hung by the chimney with care.
The Christmas stockings shown in the lead shot are by For Ivor, a range of organic children's homewares and clothing, spark imaginations and nurture a lifelong love of nature and storytelling, about €98 each, ex delivery.
Kildare-based Laura Dempsey’s Pickled Pom Pom neon knit version, €38, above, is already sold out but should be on your list for 2026.
Or you could hang them at the foot of the bed.
If you want to try and catch a glimpse of Santa, you might want to hang your stocking at the foot of the bed rather than on the mantle.
Neptune’s Elden velvet stockings, seen in eucalyptus green but available in cranberry, cost €45.
Candles were placed in every window, lighting the way home for travellers
This tradition is said to have originated in Penal times, signifying safe harbour to any priest and an invitation to say mass.
It is also said to welcome the Holy Family with no place to stay, and it also marks those who will not be home from abroad.
This HD maxi hanging candle holder, €82, from April and the Bear.
In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there
It is an Irish tradition to leave out snacks for Santa.
Delicacies are often Mikado or Kimberly biscuits and some carrots for Rudolph and the team.
Hand-paint a message on this plate, €7, from Flying Tiger.
Sleigh stop snacks
Santa and his team of reindeer will need refreshments. In some households, it might be a mug of hot chocolate.
Flag your position in the household with Ma’s Favourite ceramic mug, by HomeBound, €14.00, from Jam Art Factory.
Warming hot drinks
In your household, Santa might be served a nip of whiskey in a hot toddy, or a cup of tea, made using hot water from this Hamish Malvern kettle, €72, from Next.ie.
Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good night
Time for bed.
Climb between the soft flannel king duvet cover set, from H&M Home, €69.99.
It also comes in a green or a white check colourway.
