Christmas is a time for traditions, the natty angel on top of the tree your mum has had since she was nine, falling asleep in front of Eastenders on the big day.
But the Isle of Man has its own wonderful traditions which stretch back into the past and help keep the connection alive.
Even better, you can celebrate them with the people who matter most to you, which, let’s face it, is the biggest and best tradition of all.
Saturday December 20, offers a perfect chance to do just that.
Two of the island’s most vibrant mumming troupes, the Peel White Boys and the Southern Whiteboys, are taking to the streets and squares in a whirlwind tour of festivities.
Following their performances is not only a fantastic day out but a wonderful way to support the local businesses in each community they visit.
A Day of Drama and Dance
The White Boys tradition is a captivating piece of living Manx folklore. Troupes, dressed in striking white costumes adorned with colourful ribbons and perform short, dramatic plays.
These performances feature a heroic battle between good and evil, peppered with quirky humour and culminating in a breathtaking, interlocking sword dance. It’s a unique and thrilling spectacle that transforms ordinary streets into stages for ancient stories.
Performances
You can catch these free performances throughout the day. Here’s where to find them and how you can extend your support to the local area:
- 10am: Start your day in Castletown Square with the Peel White Boys. Afterwards, warm up with a coffee from Coffee Craft or explore the independent shops around the historic square before grabbing lunch from somewhere like Smoky Sam’s or Time Out, maybe even grab a quick drink in one of the ancient capital’s brilliant pubs before the later show at 12.15pm.
- 10am: At the same time, Southern Whiteboys will be performing in Port St Mary where you can take in the historic performance with a morning treat or maybe a coffee from Kellas…
- 10:45am & 11:30am: The Southern Whiteboys bring their drama to Port Erin and later to Colby (by the Spar). In Port Erin, maybe browse the shops and take in a chippy treat for lunch or grab a coffee cake at the Whistlestop Cafe… In Colby, the nearby Colby Glen Hotel is an ideal spot for an early lunch or a festive drink in a classic setting.
- 11am: The Peel Whiteboys head north to Royal Ramsey late morning, right in the centre of the town outside the Courthouse. Not that you ever need a reason to, but why not watch the drama unfold with something warm from one of Ramsey’s brilliant independent coffee shops (I’m looking at you Gophers). Stick around to enjoy the shops and grab some lunch with some amazing local dishes being served up in places like The Square.
- 12pm & 1:30pm: The after sees the action shift to the heart of Peel on Michael Street. This is a brilliant opportunity to explore the charming jewel in the crown of the west. Explore the town for unique gifts, enjoy fish and chips from a chippy, or grab an amazing traditional Manx Kipper bap from the iconic Fish Bar Delicatessen.
- 4pm: The day’s performances conclude at Black Dog Pizza on Peel’s East Quay. Be honest, if there really a better way to end a day of shopping than by sharing (buy your own, pizza is NOT for sharing) a delicious, wood-fired pizza and some proper local culture with family and friends?
Heading into Christmas week, go meet your old colleague for a little sip of your favourite tipple, take your granny out for lunch, or spare the oven for the big day and order in a takeaway. Without even thinking about it, you’ll be supporting local.
After Christmas, there is Hunt the Wren, Cammag and New Year on the horizon, all making an ideal opportunity to head out and support a local business by embracing the greatest Manx tradition of all, being together making memories.
So, wrap up warm, gather your loved ones, and make a day of following the music and drama.
You’ll be creating memorable new traditions while directly supporting the local shops, cafes, and hospitality venues that make our island communities so special.
In association with Love Manx