As Christmas approaches, we wanted to know how the Irish are handling the festive season in 2013’s austerity climate compared to the last time we polled our readership in the boom times of 2006. 577 of our super readers answered our call and here are the results.
It seems we’re taking a less traditional approach to the festive season. 56% of us now choose to spend the 25th in our own homes, compared to 48% in 2006. That means family has to do without us on Christmas day, when, by the way, we’re eating less traditional turkey and ham than ever.
This year, 86% expect to eat this most traditional of festive foodstuffs, but when we last polled our readership seven years ago, 93% confirmed they’d be having it for dinner. As we become a nation of foodies, we’re tucking into options like Beef Wellington, goose, salmon and duck instead.
What else has changed since the recession hit? Unsurprisingly, we’re spending less on décor at Christmas time. In 2006, 30% of us spent between €100 and €199 on decorations alone. Contrast that with 2013 when many of our readers say they'll be spending less than €100 on decorations, and 40% of those polled said they'll be spending 25% less than in previous years.
The survey also reveals that only 70% of Irish people plan to say they’ll attend a festive mass this year. For 38% of them, this is the only time of year they attend religious ceremonies.
Other issues raise their heads over the festive period too. How do those separated with children cope? 12% said they took turns having their children. 4.5% said their ex-partner had them every year while a surprising 83.5% said there is no established pattern.
So what about you? Have you changed your decorating habits? Planning a new Christmas dinner menu? Tell us what you're planning for this year's festivities!
