In Irish Christmas folklore, the annual event on 26 December associated with groups visiting homes and carrying a decorated pole is Wren Day.
Wren Day, also called Lá an Dreoilín in Irish, is traditionally observed on Saint Stephen’s Day, 26 December. Participants known as wrenboys historically traveled from house to house, singing, performing, and collecting money. In older versions, a wren was hunted or represented, and the group carried a decorated pole or a symbolic wren.
The custom has several competing explanations. Some accounts connect it with pre-Christian midwinter practices, while others associate it with legends about a wren betraying Saint Stephen. The historical meaning is therefore not entirely settled, and modern celebrations often emphasize music, costumes, and community fundraising rather than an actual bird.
Wren Day should not be confused with Christmas Day itself. Its fixed date is the day after Christmas, when Ireland’s calendar observes Saint Stephen’s Day.