‘Christmas and the tradition of candles in the window is about bringing light. Candles are universal amongst the European countries, including Ireland,’ according to Louise Kingston, owner of Inchydoney Candles.

One symbolic perspective is that candles celebrate light. Light in the darkness.

‘Advent is part of the Christian calendar in the four Sundays before Christmas. This tradition is observed in Catholic churches all over Ireland. Advent represents the waiting for Christmas with four candles on an Advent wreath, and the Christmas candle in the centre. Each one is lit on one of four Sundays before Christmas, with the Christmas candle lit on Christmas Day,’ she added.

Louise said: ‘This tradition comes from the time when there was no room at the inn for the baby Jesus. For many centuries, a candle in the window signals being welcomed.’

‘When I grew up in Inchydoney, light from the candles that were seen from the window by ships at sea, gave that sense of welcome far out in the ocean,’ she added.

Fire is needed for life. In Ireland, this celebration of fire goes back to the Hill of Tara. Its symbolism is appreciated in West Cork, and we bring fire into our homes by having a candle on these December days.

In Dublin, Áras an Uachtarain has had the tradition of a candle in the window for many years for emigrants.

‘You are letting these people know that even though they have made their home overseas, they still have a home here somewhere and can feel welcomed back home in Ireland,’ she said.

‘From a European perspective, German and Polish people tie a candle to the Christmas tree to show brightness from the window. There is a fire hazard here, but it has been common since the past,’ she said.

‘In Scandinavian countries, candles have always been important throughout the year, including Christmas. Hygge is the idea of comfort that a lighted candle brings. They are used to brighten the darkness of winter, so you feel homely,’ she added.

‘Candles at Christmas celebrate the tradition of the season. They create a nice atmosphere in people’s homes. A glow to a room, sometimes with a lovely fragrance that gives the feeling of warmth,’ according to Phil Mc Laughlin of The Grey Heron Gift Shop in Bandon of which he is the co-owner with his brother, Dave. Stockists of candles, they carry their own brand West Cork Folk.

‘Candles have always been a choice in the tradition of gift-giving at Christmas. This type of gift is most popular at this time of year. There is a tradition of lighting candles at Christmas that represents the family and friends we have lost. This creates an emotional connection for a lot of people in West Cork at Christmas.’

‘Candles at Christmas symbolise welcome. The light of a candle is relaxing and puts you at ease,’ according to Padraic O’Donovan of Fastnet Candles in Skibbereen.

‘Back in the day, the ritual of the youngest child lighting the candle before dark was common. This was followed by the oldest person in the house extinguishing it after midnight,’ he said.

Advent comes before Christmas. Advent candles have three colours – purple, pink and white. Some of the symbolism includes hope, peace and joy.

‘From the 17th century in Ireland, the tradition of the candle in the window became prevalent, particularly in rural communities. In penal times, the “piseog” was that a candle brought light and a safe haven,’ he said.

Throughout the year, candles hold significance at different celebrations, but particularly, Brigid’s Day (February 1st), Candlemas (February 2nd), and when marking occasions such as birthdays, weddings, memorials, baptism, communion, confirmation, but Christmas is especially important. Fastnet Candles make a Christmas candle – a traditional Irish version that’s handmade.

Padraic remembered that his parents, Paddy and Elma O’Donovan, learned the craft of candle-making from working in the business and he learned this skill from them. It’s a skill that requires different tools and implements for pouring, dipping, cutting, coning and wrapping. He concludedthat he hopes candles will bring light, joy and peace to people’s homes this Christmas.