If you’re curious about when, where, or what time to tune in to Irish television, join us as we reveal the top ten TV specials to watch in Ireland this Christmas.
The RTÉ Christmas Guide has hit the shelves of shops nationwide, and this can only mean one thing: get the highlighters out and start marking!
However, if you just don’t have time to mull over every TV listing or if this is your first Christmas in Ireland and you’re not sure where to start, let us guide you.
Here is our countdown of the top ten TV specials to watch in Ireland this Christmas.
10. Donal’s Traditional Family Christmas – learn how to make a traditional Irish Christmas feast
Donal Skeehan is an Irish cook, food writer, television presenter, and photographer. This Christmas, he brings us tips and meal prepping ideas to ensure a stress-free Christmas for all.
Cooking a traditional Irish feast for Christmas may seem intimidating, but with Donal’s help, there will be no turkey left unturned.
When: 22 December, 8:00 pm, RTÉ One
9. Rachael Blackmore: A Grand Year – celebrate the first female jockey to win the Grand National
Rachael Blackmore is a hardworking and ambitious Irish jockey who became the first female jockey to win the Grand National in 2021.
This documentary, made by award-winning filmmaker Ross Whitaker, tells the story of her life and how she established her career in horse racing.
This TV special will also feature a cast of horse-racing idols, an interview with Rachel herself and a few words from her friends and family.
When: 29 December, 9:25 pm, RTÉ One
8. Adam Saves Christmas – an Irish TV special to watch with the kids this Christmas
Adam King won our hearts with his appearance on the Late Late Toy Show in 2020, a TV special where children are invited to perform, chat, and review the trendiest toys of the year in front of a live studio audience.
On this show, Adam expressed his desire to send a virtual hug to the nation, which prompted a Christmas card charity fundraiser and the release of a book called A Hug for You in 2021.
This Christmas, join Adam as he stars in an animated short film that also features Ryan Tubridy (the Irish TV host) as the voice of Santa.
When: Christmas Eve, 2:30 pm and 6:20 pm, RTÉjr
7. Fáilte 2022 – count down to midnight with Daithí and friends
Ring in the new year with TV presenters Daithí Ó Sé and Orla Ní Fhinneadha.
Be ready to celebrate and welcome a prosperous new year with tunes and chats. Fans of Irish music and culture won’t want to miss this one!
When: New Year’s Eve, 11:30 pm, TG4
6. Seán Ó Riada: Mo Sheanathair – exploring the true nature of the Irish composer
50 years after the death of the famous Irish composer Seán Ó Riada, his granddaughter Doireann Ní Ghlacáin aims to find out more about the life and work of this iconic figure.
Featuring musical performances from other Irish musicians, the show will act as a moving tribute to Ó Riada or as an introduction to Irish music for the viewer.
When: St. Stephen’s Day, 9:20 pm, TG4
5. Callan Kicks the Year – for comedy this Christmas
Are you ready for a few laughs with a satirical recap of this year’s events? This programme, hosted by the Irish comedian and impressionist, Oliver Callan will surely entertain Irish audiences.
On the other hand, it will also provide hilarious insight into Irish politics and pop culture for those who are new to the country.
When: 30 December, 9:25 pm, RTÉ One
4. Joe Burke: Ceiliúradh – to honour the famous Irish musician
This is a tribute show to Joe Burke, the accordion player from east Galway who died this past February.
Musicians, family, and friends will come together to honour one of Ireland’s best-loved musicians.
When: Christmas Day, 10:20 pm, TG4
3. Mrs Brown’s Boys Christmas Specials – one of the best TV specials to watch in Ireland this Christmas
This Christmas brings not only one but two specials of the hugely successful series, Mrs Brown’s Boys.
This ‘Irish Mammy’ television sitcom features the comedian Brendan O’ Carroll as the witty and sarcastic Mrs Brown.
It is a funny and heart-warming portrayal of family life in Ireland that’s sure to bring a smile to your face this Christmas.
When: Christmas Day 9:35 pm and New Year’s Eve 10:10 pm, RTÉ One
2. The Tommy Tiernan Christmas Special – one of the best TV specials to watch in Ireland this Christmas
Don’t miss this unique talk show hosted by the Irish comedian Tommy Tiernan. This is the only talk show we know of where neither the host nor the audience knows which guest is about to appear next.
This structure gives a fresh and natural layer to the show, highlighting Tommy Tiernan’s excellent skills as an interviewer.
When: 27 December, 9:25 pm, RTÉ One
1. The Way We Were at Christmas – relive Christmas from long ago
This is a must-see on our list of the top ten TV specials to watch in Ireland this Christmas.
The Way We Were at Christmas will feed your nostalgia by retelling the famous traditions of an Irish Christmas and asking people whether these have changed or stayed the same. Be sure to take notes if this is your first Christmas in Ireland!
When: Christmas Eve, 9:25 pm, RTÉ One
