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The traditional Manx Christmas period lasted for two weeks - the Kegeesh Ommidjagh (Foolish Fortnight) - and it was rounded off on Twelfth Night with an appearance of the Laair Vane.

This white horse would enter festive gatherings at this time and cause a ruckus as it playfully snapped its jaws at people until it was chased from the room.

Other accounts have people diligently ignoring the Laair Vane (White Mare), since it would snap at and terrorise those who reacted to it only.

Linked to other White Horse traditions across the Celtic world, this Manx tradition is one of the Island's most playfully terrifying!

Videos

  • Laair Vane (English language)

  • Laair Vane (Manx language)

Images