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Ireland: Ireland is a sovereign, independent, democratic state with a parliamentary system of government. Its history is reflected in the warm hospitality, underrated delicious traditional dishes, brilliant music, and beautiful landscape. Whether enjoying a morning breakfast at a B&B, downing a pint or two in a pub, experiencing the local artists, or hiking along a seaside cliff, it is hard not to feel a part of the dramatic culture and rich history that is Ireland. Dublin, Cork and Belfast all have top-notch restaurants, party-on pubs and a foot-stomping live-music scene, while you can track down impromptu pub sessions of traditional Irish music in places like Galway, Doolin and Killarney. And there?s a wealth of history to discover, from the countless medieval castles and early Christian monasteries to the powerful political murals of Belfast and Derry, and one of the biggest concentrations of prehistoric monuments in Europe. Irish Christmas traditions are also exceptional. Christmas in Ireland is a religious as well as a festive occasion. Northern Ireland is a part of the United Kingdom and hence, Christmas traditions here echo those of the western countries. Christmas dinner in Ireland consists of almost the same foods as Thanksgiving with the main dishes being turkey, ham, cranberry sauce and the like. The more traditional Irish dishes include spiced beef to be served either hot or cold. Dessert is usually composed of mince pies, Christmas pudding, and brandy or rum sauce. Popular event especially in Dublin where it is a city that knows how to throw a party have this New Years Eve Gala Ball at the National Concert Hall another is the ringing of the bells at Christ church Cathedral. Clubs and bars are open for their own countdown events and party bits.