Author: Lottie Simons

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, these movies are perfect for a cosy night in with your partner or a movie marathon with friends beside the fire.

We’ve put together our favourite Valentine’s Day movies and where you can watch them.

We Live In Time (R)

Recently divorced Tobias meets chef Almut when she hits him with her car, starting a romance that tests their resilience through joy and adversity.

Me Before You (PG‑13)

Daylight Saving Time Changes – When Are the Clocks Going Forward?

It’s that time of the year again, when everyone spends a week asking: “Are we gaining or losing an hour?” 

So, to answer your question once and for all: the clocks go forward one hour at 1 a.m. on Sunday, 29th March 2026. That means we will lose one hour in bed, and the clock will jump from 1 am straight away to 2 am. 

Why Do the Clocks Change?

The concept of changing the clocks, known as Daylight Saving Time (DST), was first introduced to make better use of natural daylight and as a result, reduce energy consumption. 

Here’s how it works: 

• In spring, we move clocks forward to enjoy longer evenings, with more sunlight. 

• In autumn, we move them back to get brighter mornings and an easier wake-up. 

When the mornings get lighter, our bodies produce less melatonin (the sleep hormone) and more serotonin (the “feel good” hormone), giving us a subtle energy boost. 

Not Everyone Changes Their Clocks 

While most countries in Europe and North America participate in Daylight Saving Time, plenty of others have said “no thanks.” 

Countries that don’t change their clocks include: 

• China – operates on one standard time zone year-round. 

• Japan – stopped using daylight saving time after World War II.  

• India – sticks to Indian Standard Time all year. 

• Iceland – so far north, daylight saving time barely makes a difference. 

• Most of Africa and South America don’t change their clocks at all. 

Meanwhile, the European Union has discussed ending clock changes altogether, but for now, Ireland still takes part. So, we’ll continue to gain and lose an hour for a little while longer!

The Positives

It’s easy to focus on the hassle of changing your clocks each year, but there are actually plenty of positives to look forward to: 

• Brighter mornings – ideal for early risers. 

• Cosier evenings – perfect for lighting a fire and slowing down after a long day. 

• A healthier routine – that extra hour of sleep when the clocks go back can do wonders for your energy and mood. 

In October, the clock change marks the start of the WillowWarm season, when homes glow brighter, nights get longer, and everyone craves a bit more comfort.

How to Avoid the Classic ‘Wrong-Time Wake-Up’ 

Every March and October, WhatsApp groups fill with confessions like “I showed up to brunch an hour early” or “my oven still thinks it’s summer.” Here’s how to stay one step ahead: 

• Update manual clocks before bed – phones and smart devices will sort themselves out. 

• Enjoy the extra hour when they go back – slow mornings are the best kind of mornings. 

No matter what the clock says, it’s always the right time for comfort and warmth.  

Stock up on WillowWarm briquettes today.

January is the perfect time to reset your spending habits and embrace a more sustainable lifestyle. Here is our list of 8 practical ways to help you spend less in 2026 while reducing waste and energy use. 

1. Sell Unused Belongings

Start the year off by decluttering and turning forgotten items into cash. Check your wardrobe, shelves, and storage spaces for things you no longer use, as well as any unwanted Christmas gifts, electronics, books, or even old CDs. 

Second-hand selling platforms such as Depop and Vinted are great for fashion, while eBay and Gumtree work for almost anything else. Not only will you boost your bank balance, but you’ll also give these items a second life, keeping them out of landfill and supporting a circular economy.  

2. Insulate Your Home for Long-Term Savings

Energy efficiency is a win-win: it saves money and reduces your carbon footprint. Simple actions like turning off unused appliances, switching to energy-efficient bulbs, and lowering your thermostat can make a big difference. 

Did you know that turning your thermostat down by just 1°C can save around €80 a year? Layer up indoors, seal draughts, and consider upgrades like: 

• LED bulbs (use 90% less electricity and last 10x longer) 
• Draught-proofing doors and windows 
• Air-drying clothes instead of using a tumble dryer (saves €40+ annually) 
• Burn carbon-neutral fuel in an ecodesign stove instead of burning traditional solid fuels.

Almost all appliances can be turned off at the plug without affecting their settings. A smart plug or standby saver makes this easy and cuts unnecessary energy use. 

3. Bulk Shopping & Meal Prep

Plan ahead and buy in bulk to reduce costs and packaging waste. Cooking at home is not only cheaper than takeaways but also more sustainable. Try batch-cooking hearty meals and freezing portions, less food waste, less temptation to overspend. 

4. Celebrate at Home

Swap expensive nights out for cosy nights in. Host a movie marathon, cook a delicious meal, or enjoy a roaring WillowWarm fire with friends. 

5. Review Your Subscriptions

Streaming services, gym memberships, and magazine subscriptions can quietly drain your budget. Have a look through your monthly subscriptions and cancel anything you don’t need. 

6. Use Loyalty Schemes

Sign up for free loyalty programs like Tesco Clubcard or Sainsbury’s Nectar. These schemes offer discounts, cashback, and vouchers, such easy wins for regular shoppers. 

7. Choose Greener Transport

Fuel, parking, and maintenance costs add up fast. Opt for public transport, cycling, or carpooling to save money and reduce emissions. Many employers offer TaxSaver tickets or Bike to Work schemes, so check what’s available at your work. 

8. Simple Everyday Swaps

• Use refillable water bottles instead of buying drinks. 

• Dry clothes on a clothesline instead of using a tumble dryer. 

• Wash clothes at 30°C and only with full loads to save energy. 

Small changes add up, both for your wallet and the planet. These tips aren’t just about cutting back costs; they’re also about living more sustainably. 

Here at WillowWarm, we believe in reducing waste, conserving energy, and making choices that benefit both your home and the environment. Head into 2026 with smarter habits and enjoy the warmth of a more sustainable lifestyle. 

Stock up on WillowWarm carbon-neutral briquettes for a guilt-free fire this winter.  

Things NOT to Buy in 2026 (and What to Use Instead)

Is there anything more festive than sitting in front of a blazing WillowWarm fire decorated head to toe with festive decor? If you happen to have a mantelpiece that is looking a bit bare, why not make the most of it with our top tips for styling your mantelpiece? From garlands and fairy lights to stockings and ornaments, here are five different decor ideas to style your fireplace for Christmas.  

1. Cosy Village Scene 

Bring the charm of a festive town square into your living room. Decorate your mantel with miniature Christmas village houses, tiny lampposts, and snow-dusted figurines. Add a sprinkle of faux snow along the base and weave warm white fairy lights through the scene to mimic glowing streetlights. For extra magic, include a small train set or a skating rink figurine, perfect for creating that nostalgic, storybook feel.  

 You can find the cutest minis to use over on Amazon here.  

2. Classic Colours 

It’s hard for traditional to ever go out of style. Drape a garland with baubles across your mantel and pair it with a matching wreath. Hang red stockings and add brass candlesticks for a warm, festive glow.  

3. Festive Foliage 

Appealing to more than just your eyes; incorporate real pine branches, acorns and holly into your Christmas display to create a beautiful festive scent and an eye-catching centrepiece. 

4. Cosy Christmas Lights 

If the fire’s glow isn’t enough, add extra sparkle! Choose fairy lights in warm white or multicoloured and drape them across the mantel, around the base, and even inside a decorative fireplace. If you are seeking an extra sparkle, why not try using “Cluster LED” styled Christmas lights that have a unique twinkle?

5. Festive Florals 

A popular trend for 2025, have you seen people adding baby’s breath flowers inside their Christmas trees? Inspired by this Christmas tree trend, why not incorporate elegant white pops to your mantel piece using fresh or dried baby’s breath flowers for even more frosty elegance?  

Your fireplace is often the most eye-catching part of your home during the winter season, setting the tone for the rest of the house. Choose a theme that speaks to you, and don’t forget to stock up on WillowWarm carbon-neutral briquettes to make your festive fireplace even cosier.  

Key Locations

As a proud sustainable Irish company, we know Christmas is a time when it’s more important than ever to be mindful of how we shop and celebrate. With consumption at its peak during the festive season, small changes can make a big difference. Here are our top tips on how you can enjoy a guilt-free, sustainable Christmas. 

1. Shop Local 

One of the easiest ways to reduce your carbon footprint this Christmas is to support Irish businesses. Shopping locally helps cut down on delivery miles, avoids reliance on global supply chains, and keeps your money in the Irish economy. Plus, it’s a great way to discover unique gifts! 

Check out our blog: Irish Christmas Gifts for inspiration. 

2. Embrace Second-Hand Shopping 

Second-hand shopping is often overlooked, but it’s a fantastic way to give back to charity while reducing waste. From quirky accessories to designer handbags, you can find unique treasures that make thoughtful gifts, all while keeping items out of a landfill. 

3. Choose Recyclable Wrapping 

Did you know most conventional wrapping paper isn’t recyclable? Foil, glitter, ribbons, and sticky tape all make recycling impossible. Instead, opt for simple brown paper, decorate with stamps or ink, and tie with a string. For an extra festive touch, add dried flowers, greenery, or slices of dried orange. Find more wrapping inspiration here. 

4. Switch to LED Lights 

LED Christmas lights use up to 80% less energy than traditional bulbs, last longer, and look just as beautiful. Turn off lights when not in use and consider a timer for safety and energy savings. 

5. Eat Seasonally 

Many Christmas favourites (potatoes, sprouts, carrots, leeks, and parsnips) are in season during winter. Choosing seasonal, organic produce supports Ireland’s nature-friendly farmers who use fewer pesticides and promote healthy soils and biodiversity. Check out Bord Bia’s “Best in Season” calendar for updates on the best fruit and veg to pick. 

6. Love Your Freezer 

It’s an Irish mammy classic to overestimate the size of the Christmas dinner! Don’t let food go to waste, freeze it! Most foods can be frozen, including cream and cheese. Tip: Break your meals into portion sizes before freezing for easier thawing.  

6. Turning Down the Heating Dial

Thanks to WillowWarm carbon-neutral briquettes, you can heat your home more sustainably using Irish fuel. Instead of wasting energy and money heating your home up this winter, turn down the dial and enjoy a cosy, crackling fire; perfect for creating a festive atmosphere.

Small Changes, Big Impact 

At WillowWarm, we’re committed to reducing Ireland’s carbon footprint. That’s why we produce carbon-neutral briquettes, helping you heat your home more sustainably. 

If you haven’t stocked up for winter, now’s the perfect time. Find your local stockist here.  

At WillowWarm, our mission is simple, to provide a more sustainable alternative to traditional solid fuels. 

Our carbon-neutral briquettes are proudly produced in County Meath, made from Irish-grown willow and biomass. Each briquette represents renewable heat that not only reduces Ireland’s dependence on imported fossil fuels but also supports Irish farming. 

As Ireland moves toward a low-carbon future, we believe that renewable energy will play a vital role. By combining innovation in sustainable heating with the strength of Ireland’s agricultural sector, WillowWarm is helping to build a cleaner, more resilient future.  

Regenerative by Nature 

Our willow crops are grown mainly in Kells area in County Meath, where Ireland’s climate offers the perfect conditions for growth.  

Once planted, willow trees regrow naturally after the harvest every two to three years through a process called coppicing. During harvesting, the stems are cut back to the stump rather than uprooted, allowing the same root system to remain in place. From this base (known as a “stool”), multiple new shoots emerge, creating a continuous cycle of renewal without the need for replanting. 

This cycle can continue for up to 36 years, making willow one of Ireland’s most sustainable and low-impact crops. 

Beyond its efficiency, willow cultivation supports regenerative agriculture. It improves soil fertility and helps manage water naturally, all while requiring minimal fertiliser. The result is healthier soil, more resilient ecosystems, and a farming model that gives back to the land rather than taking from it. 

You can find out more about the regenerative nature of Willow here.   

Irish-Made. Cleaner by Design. 

Because WillowWarm is made entirely from Irish-grown willow and biomass, there are no import costs or reliance on global supply chains. 

Our briquettes contain no artificial glues, binders, or additives, ensuring a clean, natural burn that produces minimal smoke and significantly less ash compared to traditional fuel alternatives. With a low moisture content of just 8% (versus around 20% in conventional fuels), WillowWarm delivers a hotter, longer-lasting, and more efficient burn. 

A Step Toward a More Sustainable Future 

By choosing WillowWarm, you’re doing more than selecting a carbon-neutral briquette; you’re supporting Irish farming, reducing Ireland’s carbon footprint, and keeping value within the Irish economy. 

At WillowWarm, we’re proud to help Irish homes stay warm sustainably, with a fuel that’s cleaner for the environment, better for the economy, and deeply rooted in Irish soil. 

Take advantage of our pallet offer over at Stafford’s Eco Fuel.  

Christmas is a time for joy, togetherness, and creating memories that last long after the decorations come down. Whether you love Christmas markets, quiet evenings with a good book, or getting creative with festive crafts, there are plenty of ways to make this season truly special. Here are 10 cosy Christmas activities to inspire your festive plans. 

1) Explore Dublin Loves Christmas

From November 15th to December 23rd, the RDS in Ballsbridge becomes a festive wonderland. Stroll through artisan markets, sip mulled wine and take in the thrill of rides like the Drop Tower and Starflyer. For families, there’s an ice rink and plenty of entertainment in the Spiegeltent, perfect for a day of festive fun. 

2) Host a Christmas Movie Night (or Try a Drive-In!)

Nothing says Christmas like a classic holiday film. Book a spot at Retro Drive-In Movies in Leopardstown for a nostalgic experience, or create your own cosy cinema at home with popcorn, hot chocolate, and your favourite festive flicks.

(Need inspiration? Check out our blog: The Best Christmas Movies to Watch by The Fire.)

3) Curl Up with a Christmas Book

Slow down and savour the season with a festive read in your favourite cosy corner. For little ones, The Jolly Christmas Postman and Christmas in Exeter Street are timeless favourites. For adults, Nigel Slater’s The Christmas Chronicles is a beautiful ode to winter, blending recipes and reflections that make for perfect fireside reading. 

(Want to elevate your cosy corner? Check out our blog: How to Create the Ultimate Cosy Living Room This Winter.)

4) Bake Something Festive

Fill your home with the irresistible scent of cinnamon and chocolate. From gingerbread houses to melting snowman biscuits, baking is a tradition that brings everyone together. Short on time? Try quick wins like chocolate brownies or no-egg cookies for stress-free festive treats. 

5) Support Local Businesses

Christmas is the perfect time to shop small and support local businesses such as Sheridans Cheesemongers. Whether you’re browsing artisan markets or ordering online, choosing Irish businesses helps spread festive cheer where it matters most.

(Need ideas? Check out our blog on Irish Gifts to shop this Christmas.) 

6) Get Crafty with Decorations

Make your home sparkle with handmade touches. Paper snowflakes are simple yet stunning, and DIY ornaments add a personal twist to your tree. 

7) Visit the Dún Laoghaire Christmas Festival

Home to Ireland’s largest ice rink, this festival is a must-see. Explore markets, enjoy family rides, and soak up the festive atmosphere along the harbour.

For even more sparkle, check out our blog on The Best Christmas Lights to Visit in Dublin. 

8) Take a Christmas Lights Stroll

Dublin’s streets shine bright during the holidays. Wander down Grafton Street under its famous chandeliers, explore Henry Street’s festive displays, and finish in Temple Bar for fairy-lit pubs and music. It’s the perfect way to feel the magic of the season. 

9) Make Your Own Christmas Baubles

Skip the store-bought decorations and create something unique. All you need are clear baubles, a few craft supplies, and a dash of creativity. Fill them with glitter, ribbon, or even handwritten wishes for a tree that tells your family’s story. 

10) Decorate a Gingerbread House

A Christmas classic that never gets old! Gather coloured icing, sweets, and gingerbread pieces, then let your imagination run wild. It’s a fun, hands-on activity that doubles as a delicious centrepiece.

For more events and fun after Christmas, check out what’s on in the Mecantile Group this winter for even more inspiration.

Whatever activities you choose, make this season about slowing down and enjoying the little moments. From festive outings to creative crafts, Christmas is all about creating warmth, inside and out. 

Shop WillowWarm Briquettes now to keep your perfect cosy corner glowing. 

The Best Christmas Light Displays to Visit in Dublin 2025  

There’s something truly magical about Dublin at Christmas. The city glows with light and colour, and the sound of carols fills the air. Twinkling lights are decorated across streets and landmarks, creating a sense of warmth. 

If you’re staying at The Mercantile Hotel on Dame Street, you’re perfectly placed to explore the city’s most dazzling Christmas light experiences. From glowing castles to lantern-lit parks, here’s your guide to Dublin’s brightest and most beautiful displays this winter.  

Wild Lights at Dublin Zoo

Dublin Zoo’s Wild Lights has become one of Ireland’s most beloved Christmas traditions. Each year, the zoo transforms into a glowing wonderland, with hundreds of illuminated sculptures lighting up the paths after dark. For 2025, the theme is “The Wild Kaleidoscope,” featuring 13 spectacular zones filled with giant lanterns, glowing animals, and magical photo opportunities for the whole family. 

The event runs from 6 November 2025 to 31 January 2026, from 5 pm to 9 pm (last entry at 8 pm). Tickets: €26 for adults, €21.50 for children, and infants under one go free (booking required). 

Wonderlights at Malahide Castle & Gardens

If you’re craving something straight out of a fairy tale, Wonderlights at Malahide Castle is a must-see. This immersive light trail winds through historic woodlands, blending nature, sound, and technology into a spectacular visual experience. The 2025 theme, “Once Upon a Glow,” promises glowing tunnels, colourful projections, and dazzling interactive displays. 

Tickets range from €15–€25.50 for adults and €15–€24 for children (under-2s free). To reach Malahide Castle, take the DART from Connolly Station north toward Malahide, followed by a short walk. The entire journey takes about 50 minutes, ideal for escaping the city bustle and stepping into a glowing wonderland. 

Dublin Winter Lights & Merrion Square Park 

Each December, Dublin City Council turns the city into a canvas of light and colour with its Winter Lights festival. Over 20 buildings (including the Custom House, Trinity College, and the Samuel Beckett Bridge) are transformed into glowing landmarks thanks to beautifully designed light projections. It’s free to enjoy and easy to explore on foot.  

DoDublin Christmas Lights Tour

For a cosy way to take in Dublin’s festive glow, hop aboard the DoDublin Christmas Lights Tour. This open-top bus journey takes you through the city’s most beautifully lit streets, complete with music, stories, and sing-alongs. It’s like wrapping yourself in a blanket of light and laughter. 

Tours run from 29 November to 20 December 2025, departing between 16:30 and 18:30. Tickets: €20 per person. 

Wonderlights at Marlay Park

South of the city, Wonderlights at Marlay Park offers another incredible light trail set against leafy woodlands. Over a million sparkling bulbs combine with music and projections to create an unforgettable evening walk. Tickets start at €15–€25 per person. 

Christmas Twinkling Lights Trip (Vintage Tea Bus)

For something truly unique, climb aboard the Vintage Tea Bus for a festive spin through Dublin’s best-lit streets, complete with afternoon tea served as you ride. Sip tea beneath fairy lights while passing shimmering landmarks, it’s warmth and sparkle combined. 

Christmas at the Guinness Storehouse 

The Guinness Storehouse adds its own glow to the season, blending Irish heritage with festive magic. After exploring, stroll back through Dublin’s glittering streets, where every light feels like a spark of warmth against the winter chill. 

Bonus: Strolling the Streets of Dublin 

Even without tickets, Dublin’s streets offer plenty of Christmas magic for free. Grafton Street glitters under its famous chandeliers, Henry Street shines with overhead lights, and Temple Bar glows with fairy-lit pubs. Wrap up warm, grab a hot chocolate, and take a slow stroll, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped straight into a Christmas card. 

There’s a reason these glowing displays feel so comforting. Just like the flicker of a fire, twinkling lights create a sense of warmth and togetherness. They invite us to pause, share a moment, and feel at home, even on a chilly night. 

And when you return home, nothing completes that feeling like a real fire. Make sure to stock up on WillowWarm’s carbon-neutral briquettes in time for Christmas. 

As we approach the festive season, what could be better than popping on a Christmas movie while you cuddle up by the fire…. a WillowWarm fire, of course! We’ve compiled a fault-proof list of Christmas movie classics that will get you in the festive mood. Grab your popcorn, wrap up in a blanket, and let the magic begin. 

Home Alone (PG) 

Eight-year-old Kevin McCallister is accidentally left behind when his family jets off to Paris for Christmas. At first, he revels in the freedom, until two humorously clumsy burglars target his home. Kevin’s ingenious traps and hilarious antics make this a timeless family favourite. 

The Santa Clause (PG) 

When Scott Calvin accidentally causes Santa to fall from his roof, he discovers magic that makes him the new Santa. Watch as Scott hilariously transforms into Father Christmas while trying to keep the magic alive for his son. 

Love Actually (R)

This romantic comedy weaves together ten heartwarming (and sometimes heartbreaking) stories of love in the weeks leading up to Christmas. From a Prime Minister falling for his assistant to a grieving father helping his stepson find love, it’s a festive rollercoaster of emotions. 

Arthur Christmas (PG) 

Ever wondered how Santa delivers millions of presents in one night? This animated gem reveals the high-tech operation behind Christmas and the heartwarming quest of Arthur, Santa’s clumsy son, to deliver one forgotten gift. 

Miracle on 34th Street (PG) 

Is Kris Kringle really Santa Claus? This magical tale follows a department store Santa who claims to be the real deal, sparking a courtroom battle over belief and the true spirit of Christmas. 

Elf (PG) 

Buddy the Elf, raised at the North Pole, heads to New York to find his real dad and spread Christmas cheer in the most hilarious ways. Will Ferrell’s childlike wonder makes this a modern classic. 

The Muppet Christmas Carol (G) 

The Muppets bring Dickens’ classic to life with music, humor, and heart. Join Kermit as Bob Cratchit and Michael Caine as Scrooge in this family-friendly retelling of redemption and generosity. 

Nativity! (PG) 

A hilarious British comedy about a primary school teacher tasked with putting on the best nativity play ever, while accidentally promising Hollywood involvement! Packed with laughs, music, and festive chaos. 

The Grinch Stole Christmas (PG) 

Jim Carrey stars as the Grinch, who plots to steal Christmas from Whoville, until a little girl named Cindy Lou melts his icy heart. A colourful, funny, and slightly mischievous holiday treat. 

The Polar Express (G) 

Hop aboard the magical train to the North Pole in this visually stunning adventure about believing in the spirit of Christmas. A heartwarming journey for kids and adults alike. 

Jingle All the Way (PG) 

Arnold Schwarzenegger stars as a frantic dad racing to find the season’s hottest toy for his son. Chaos, comedy, and a dash of holiday spirit make this a fun family watch. 

The Snowman (G) 

This enchanting animated short tells the story of a boy and his magical snowman who comes to life. A gentle, nostalgic classic with a bittersweet ending. 

It’s a Wonderful Life (PG) 

George Bailey learns how much his life matters in this timeless tale of hope and gratitude. A true Christmas classic that reminds us of the power of kindness. 

Die Hard (R) 

Yes, it’s a Christmas movie! Bruce Willis takes on terrorists in a skyscraper during a holiday party. Action-packed and iconic, but definitely for grown-ups only. 

It’s time to put the popcorn on and wrap up by a WillowWarm fire.  

Stock up on WillowWarm carbon-neutral briquettes here and make movie night extra cosy.