For many of us, Valentine’s Day is a yearly treat, awarding us opportunities at every turn to spread a little love around. Such as wives and mothers of legendary Irish fishermen who knit thick and robust Aran wool sweaters for their husbands and sons to keep them warm and express thei …

There’s no place like home during the Christmas season—but there’s no doubt that scenic, welcoming Ireland comes in at a close second. Every year, countless families from all over the world travel to the Emerald Isle during this special time to experience the hospitality the country is famous for, e …

You hang your stockings by the fireplace every Christmas season, hoping that Santa Claus will fill them with goodies on Christmas Eve night. But how and why did stockings become such an integral part of the holiday season?Stockings have been part of the Christmas tradition for centuries, although no …

Traditions often provide comfort. The holidays are a time where we get back in touch with our roots and relish those customs as well as make new ones. Food is a distinguishing signifier of culture, and a significant means of keeping our heritage alive and thriving. Crafting a holiday meal and breaki …

There is no accounting for taste. And this the season for a showy display. Wearing garish kitschy Christmas sweaters has become a significant fad and the theme for many holiday fêtes. Contests to find the ugliest and most obnoxious has even influenced several youth-focused apparel labels to oblig …

You know that you’ve got one of the best Christmas sweaters ever. It’s the most gorgeous… or tacky … or ugly Christmas sweater ever made. Whatever it is, you love it and it’s yours.You can’t wait to wear it to your yearly family Christmas get-together to show it off to Aunt Betty, Uncle Charlie and …