
December 26 is the feast day of St. Stephen, the first Christian martyr.
Legend has it that St. Stephen’s hiding place was betrayed by the chattering of a wren.For centuries, the feast day has been recalled in Ireland by the “Wren boys,” who dress in motley clothing, marching from house to house to collect money for a party for the whole town or village, and sometimes to support a charity.
Traditionally, they exacted their vengeance on the unfortunate bird by carrying a wren aloft on a stick—hunted down in the old days, but for years (mercifully) a toy bird.
One way to celebrate the day is by creating a colorful wren hat. Shannon Lambert-Ryan, with help from her eager assistant Liam de Barra, show you how in this video, a special edition of their Baking with Babies series. (Hint: It’s not just for babies!)
Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann Philadelphia-Delaware Valley is sponsoring a contest for the best wren hat. There’s a category for adults, another for kids, and another for the submission that comes from the farthest away. The grand prize in each category is a $50 gift card.
To enter, e-mail a picture of yourself wearing your hat to cce_dv@verizon.net by 12:00pm ET on December 26. Judging takes place that afternoon, with winners announced later that day. Be sure to tell us your name and where you’re entering from (town or city, state or country).
Let the competition begin!
