Anticipation has been building all week – the goodies have been bought and every kid in the country is looking forward to staying up well beyond their bedtime tonight.
Ah yes you say – the big announcement today re the lifting of Covid level 5 restrictions for Christmas. NO -not that – well ok…. the Taoiseach (Prime Minister) is due to speak later today. BUT it was stated earlier in the week that his announcement would not clash with the most important televised event of the year – THE LATE LATE TOY SHOW!
So what’s it all about?
The Late Late Show is a weekly Irish chat show which first aired on 6th July 1962 ( YES! 58.5 years ago!).
In 1975, coming up to Christmas, a half-hour slot was introduced at the end of the show to give parents some gift ideas while their kids were sleeping.
It evolved very quickly into an full show in its own right, complete with lots of child toy-testers and performers, dodgy Xmas jumpers and celebrity surprises.
A survey published by Jury’s Inn has shown 40% of Irish millennials view it as their fondest childhood throwback.
Last year, more than 1.7 million people tuned in to watch it over the course of the weekend on a variety of RTÉ platforms. The Frozen-themed extravaganza was watched by an audience of 1.35 million on the night, making it the most-watched programme on Irish television in 2019.
(A frequent sight in Irish homes on Toy Show night!!!!!!)
The Irish Diaspora….
You know we Irish are everywhere and, for our massive diaspora, this is a huge occasion. Last year, Irish people from more than 100 countries tuned in to the show which is available to watch live and on demand on the RTE Player.
So, where ever you are, don’t forget to set the clock…..
Friday, 27th…
1.35pm Vancouver
4.35pm New York
9.35pm Dublin
10.35pm Berlin / Madrid / Paris
Saturday 28th….
1.35am Dubai
5.35am Hong Kong
6.35am Tokyo
8.35am Sydney
10.35am Auckland
This year, more than ever, there is a sense of anticipation like no other. Maybe we just need more cheering up than usual but there’s a lot of excitement circulating about the show. Alas, families are unable to buy their matching Late Late Toy Show pyjamas and onesies but we won’t let that spoil a wonderful occasion!
(Maaaayyyyybeee you’ll still squeeze into last years jammies despite all the Covid cooking, eating and drinking!!!!)
So, to young and old, whether at home or abroad, light the fire, line up the popcorn, hot chocolate, vino and jellies, forget about the world out there for 2 magical hours and have a fabulous night!
Photos:
Pyjamas and Slippers – Family Photos (Thank you G!)
All other images are stock photos courtesy of Unsplash and Pexels