Irish Crooner Daniel O’Donnell Enjoys a Relaxed Family Christmas
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Beloved singer Daniel O’Donnell celebrated Christmas Day this year in his cherished hometown of Kincasslagh, Donegal, surrounded by his loving family.
The festive gathering included his wife, Majella, and thier three grandchildren: Olivia, Archie, and Luke. Joining the celebrations were Majella’s daughter Siobhan and her husband Gavin. This year marked a return to Donegal for the holiday, as last year’s festivities took place at Siobhan’s home in Banbridge, County down.
Daniel shared a heartwarming picture of the family gathering on his official Facebook page, wishing everyone a joyous Christmas.
While the holiday feast looked delectable, Daniel humbly insisted he wasn’t responsible for the culinary masterpiece. “I won’t be cooking anyway, or else everyone would be starving,” he jokingly told RSVP magazine. “I don’t cook at all. I will wash the dishes.”
He praised the cooking talents of Majella and Gavin, assuring everyone that no one would go hungry with them at the helm.
For Daniel, the true magic of Christmas lies in spending quality time with his grandchildren. “Seeing the magic of Christmas unfolding in front of me with the kids around is absolutely brilliant,” he confessed. “They really make Christmas, there’s there’s no doubt whatsoever about it.”
When asked about his favourite Christmas carols,Daniel mentioned a deep appreciation for traditional tunes. “It is indeed such a beautiful Christmas carol,” he remarked. He also expressed fondness for David Essex’s “A Winter’s tale,” calling it ”a lovely song.”
Beyond carols,Daniel shared a love for classic films. “movie wise, ‘The Sound of Music’ always reminds me of Christmas,” he revealed. “I know it’s not a Christmas movie as such, but it’s always played at that time of year.” He fondly declared it his all-time favorite film.
Daniel’s Christmas traditions extend beyond family gatherings. He also regularly sings at his local church. “It’s so lovely at Christmas time because I grew up singing in the choir all my life,” he said. “It’s so special to be part of the choir, especially during the festive season.”
A Very Donegal Christmas with Daniel O’Donnell
Daniel, it seems you had a lovely Christmas this year, surrounded by family in Donegal.
Yes, it was absolutely wonderful. Having everyone gathered here in Kincasslagh made it extra special. the grandchildren were the biggest highlight, of course. They bring such joy to the occasion. [ [1](https://archyd.ie/irish-crooner-daniel-odonnell-enjoys-a-relaxed-family-christmas/) ]
You mentioned on social media that you wouldn’t be doing the cooking! Are you more of a dessert man then?
I’m afraid not! I’m happy to wash dishes, but the cooking is best left to Majella and Gavin. They are both fantastic in the kitchen. It would be a disaster if I tried to take over! [[1](https://archyd.ie/irish-crooner-daniel-odonnell-enjoys-a-relaxed-family-christmas/) ]
Speaking of traditions, you’re also known to sing in your local church during the Christmas season.
Yes, singing in the choir at Christmas is something I’ve always cherished. I grew up singing in the church choir, so it holds a special place in my heart. [[1](https://archyd.ie/irish-crooner-daniel-odonnell-enjoys-a-relaxed-family-christmas/) ]
Do you have a favorite Christmas carol… one that truly captures the spirit of the season for you?
Ther are so many beautiful ones, it’s hard to choose just one, but I do have a fondness for the traditional carols. And ”A Winter’s Tale” by David Essex is a lovely song that always brings back fond memories. [[1](https://archyd.ie/irish-crooner-daniel-odonnell-enjoys-a-relaxed-family-christmas/) ]
D o you think traditional carols still have a place in modern celebrations or should people branch out and embrace new Christmas songs?
That’s a great question! I believe there’s room for both. Traditional carols hold a certain magic and nostalgia, but it’s wonderful to hear new songs that bring a fresh viewpoint to the holiday. What do our readers think? Do they favor classic carols or are they open to new festive tunes?
## A Donegal Christmas with Daniel O’Donnell: An Archyde Exclusive
**Archyde:** Daniel, thank you for joining us today. It’s always a pleasure to speak with you.
**Daniel O’Donnell:** The pleasure is all mine. It’s lovely to be chatting with you.
**Archyde:** we know you recently had a fantastic Christmas party back home in Kincasslagh. Can you tell us a bit about what made it so special?
**Daniel O’Donnell:** It was truly magical. Having everyone together under one roof – Majella,the grandkids,Siobhan and Gavin – was the best gift. Seeing the joy on the kids’ faces, watching those Christmas films we love, it’s what truly makes christmas for me.
**Archyde:** You mentioned yoru grandchildren. What’s your favorite part about spending Christmas with them?
**Daniel O’donnell:** Oh, just seeing the world through their eyes. They bring this wonder and excitement to everything. It reminds us all of the true spirit of Christmas.
**Archyde:** Despite your successful singing career, you’ve always remained grounded, enjoying the simpler things in life.
**Daniel O’Donnell:** Absolutely. You know, I don’t cook at all – thankfully majella and gavin are brilliant in the kitchen. I’m happy to wash the dishes!
**Archyde:** (Laughs) we hear you’re quite fond of customary Christmas carols. Are there any favorites you particularly enjoy singing?
**Daniel O’Donnell:** ‘Silent Night’ is such a beautiful carol.And David Essex’s ‘A Winter’s Tale’ is lovely as well.
**Archyde:** Beyond carols, what are your favorite christmas traditions?
**daniel O’Donnell:** We always watch ‘The Sound of Music’ wich, while not strictly a Christmas movie, feels like a tradition this time of year. It’s my all-time favorite film! And of course,singing at my local church around Christmas is so special. Singing in the choir takes me back to my childhood.
**Archyde:** It sounds like you cherish each Christmas tradition dearly.
**Daniel O’Donnell:** I truly do. It’s a time for family, togetherness, and reflection.
And the possibility of snow in Donegal always adds a certain magic!
**Archyde:** Thank you so much for sharing these wonderful insights into your Christmas, Daniel.We wish you and your family all the best for the coming year.
**Daniel O’Donnell:** My pleasure, and thank you for having me. Merry Christmas to you all!
