Live Cribs are bringing the story of Christmas to life across the country, with thousands of people making the trip to nativity scenes in the run-up to Christmas. This year saw the return of the much-loved live animal Christmas crib at Dublin’s Mansion House, after its absence last year.
The traditional life-sized nativity crib had been a fixture in Dawson street for more than 35 years, but live animals were banned last year in a decision made by the former Green Party Lord Mayor of Dublin, Caroline Conroy, who cited animal welfare as the reason behind the move.
The decision by Dublin City Council to cancel the Christmas highlight last year caused disappointment, but many have expressed delight at its return this year. The live animal crib is currently open from 11am to 4pm daily, and will run until Christmas Eve, when it is open from 11am-1pm.
Writing on social media, one person tweeted Lord Mayor of Dublin Daithí de Róiste, saying on X that it was great the “wonderful” crib had been restored.
“Beautifully done and a gorgeous experience. Well done @daithideroiste and the very kind farmer who brought the sheep, goat and donkey. Highly recommend a visit.”
“Pleased to see that the live animal crib has returned to the Mansion House in Dublin, & congrats to FF Lord Mayor Dairgi De Roiste on his part in that,” another user wrote on X.
Others joined in saying that it would be hard to find a better crib than the one at Mansion House, as people took to social media to welcome the return of Dublin’s “great tradition.”
Great to see the live animal crib restored to outside The Mansion House. pic.twitter.com/9BG2prBwyW
— Francie Gorman (@gormanifa) December 10, 2023
Another observer said that the moving crib seemed to be “bringing great joy” – adding, “Some traditions are worth keeping.”
Fionn Sherlock, whose family’s farm provides the animals for the crib at Mansion House, introduced the donkey, sheep and lambs who were featured in the crib this year.
“We’ve two new lambs that we pick for the crib every year. Peter and Paul, they’re the two new lambs and they’re happy to be here,” Mr Sherlock said in a video posted by Agriland. “It’s great to be back again,” he added.
And here’s an Agriland exclusive ‘up close and personal’ with the stars of the 2023 live animal crib at Dublin’s Mansion House – introduced by Fionn Sherlock, his family’s farm provides the animals pic.twitter.com/ndSnzjXQta
— Agriland (@AgrilandIreland) December 6, 2023
The crib, opened on December 6th in association with the Irish Farmers Association (IFA), as blessed by Rev. Paul Arbuthnot, St. Anne’s Church, Dawson Street and Fr. Enda Cunningham, St. Andrew’s Church, Westland Row.
Speaking at the opening, the Lord Mayor pointed to the importance of tradition, highlighting the care taken of the animals.
“Tradition is such an important aspect of Christmas and for many Dubliners, including myself, the Mansion House live animal crib was always a huge part of that. So I am delighted it’s back again this year. I know that the farmers always take great care of the animals and that this year will be no different.”
IFA President Tim Cullinan, meanwhile, said: “The Live Animal Crib has been a wonderful tradition in the run-in to Christmas for the people of Dublin, and visitors to the capital. It’s a gift from the farmers of Ireland that creates a traditional nativity scene on the forecourt of the Mansion House.”
Live Cribs are drawing visitors and injecting meaning into the Christmas countdown across the county, with Galway Cathedral praising those who contributed to their Live Crib, held last week, which was “a resounding success.”
“The Live Crib, a cherished tradition in the city, transformed the Galway Cathedral Car Park into a haven of Christmas joy,” Galway Cathedral wrote on social media.People of all ages and backgrounds immersed themselves in the festive atmosphere to experience the timeless story of the nativity “brought to life,” the Cathedral said.
Describing the crib as a “true parish effort,” Galway Cathedral thanked the dedicated parishioners who stepped into the roles of Mary, Joseph, Jesus, and the shepherds.
“Real farm animals added authenticity to the traditional Bethlehem nativity scene, creating a memorable and immersive experience for all attendees. Throughout the day, choirs from local schools provided the gathering with timeless Christmas carols, infusing the air with the spirit of the season,” the Cathedral said.
Ms Anne Berry, Chair of the Parish Pastoral Council shared, “the Live Crib display emerged today as a beacon of hope in a world where many face challenges in their daily lives.”
Meanwhile, Msgr Peter Rabbitte added: “The presence and enthusiasm of so many breathed life into the ancient story of Christ’s birth. The Live Crib, with its vibrant energy, showcased the beauty of togetherness and faith. On behalf of Fr John Gerard, myself and all the team at the Cathedral, we extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who made this event a resounding success.”
Also in Galway, the Poor Clares announced their event, ‘Cribs in the Abbey’ – to run until January 8th. The Nativity scenes will mark 800 years since St Francis of Assisi created the first live reenactment of the Bethlehem nativity in Greccio, Italy, the Catholic religious order said on social media.
The project, in aid of Franciscan humanitarian aid in the Holy Land, is open on Saturdays from 11am-1pm, and 2pm-5pm, and on Sundays from 12-6pm.
All are invited to attend the special Christmas family event, with the order writing:
“The Franciscans have been working hard on the project for the past few months. Cribs have been constructed and even knitted. Nativity scenes have been brought in from Italy to recreate a miniature Bethlehem.”
The Greccio Chapel in the Abbey will be open all day on Saturdays and Sundays for the month, with groups including school classes able to arrange tours.
Also celebrating the 800th anniversary of St Francis’s first Live Crib with animals, Wexford Parish held a Live Crib event described as “beautiful” by parishioners and locals last weekend.
Photos of the Live Crib at the Franiscan Friary in Wexford were shared to social media by Wexford Parish:
Another longtime Christmas favourite, The Moving Crib on 42 Parnell Square West, has also been drawing visitors – many who come every year. While there are no live animals at the crib, the crib features charming displays, music, and carol singing – with the Bray Gospel choir paying a visit to the Crib earlier this month.
Described as Dublin’s “hidden gem,” St. Martin’s Moving Crib will run until January 7th, and is open to visitors from 11 am-5.30pm 7 days a week. It is the 67th year the Moving Crib has opened its doors, with organisers saying that parents and grandparents who visited the Crib as children are now bringing their own children and grandchildren along to relive the experience.
“Fond memories of visiting with my Dad and then my children and now my granddaughter,” one visitor wrote on social media, while another described a visit to the Crib as a much-needed “break for the madness” in the midst of Christmas preparations:
A break for the madness earlier…..@StMartinDublin The Moving Crib. pic.twitter.com/iDAeKM5uJJ
— JTMoomin 🐔 (@JTMoomin) December 18, 2023
The unique, old-world nativity features handcrafted figurines – with the three wise men and their camels slowly moving closer to the crib, as depicted in the Bible, a captivating and moving experience for many who visit. The Crib is organised each year by St Martin Apostolate, supporting the work of the Dominican order in Ireland and abroad.
The Moving Crib is back to celebrate its 67th Christmas in Dublin🎄https://t.co/22SLqsadzF pic.twitter.com/wekCAFXsXA
— Lovin Dublin (@LovinDublin) November 22, 2023
The Moving Crib is free to see, with the public invited to drop in and “ignite the Christmas spirit,” with no booking necessary for individuals and families.