Most prized were red berry holly and garlands of ivy. Children would go out into the woods and fields in search of these treasures. Bark from trees was also used, and any kind of evergreen branches. The evergreens filled the homes with fresh outdoor scents, and the holly and ivy added festive colors. Thus we get the traditional Christmas colors of red and green.
Irish hospitality is well known, and in ancient times that was no different.
Hospitality was an unspoken law. This was especially true at Christmas time. Every good Christian Irish family would place a long white candle in a sconce, often a carved out turnip, then hold a special candle-lighting ceremony. This candle was then placed in the front window to welcome weary travelers, in particular, the Holy family. This custom can still be seen today in Ireland, although many have turned to electric candles.