NI Residents Are Optimists At Christmas - Survey

A seasonal survey from HARP® lager has found that almost 80% of people in Northern Ireland would describe themselves as "optimists".

The findings came to light as part of Harp's festive survey, 'What defines a Northern Irish Christmas?'

Elsewhere, the poll revealed that 64% of people have more fun at Christmas than any other time of the year, while a night out with loved ones is the most eagerly anticipated event during the festive season for 75% of respondents. Furthermore, 95% said they would be spending Christmas at home in Northern Ireland.

When it comes to the age-old Christmas traditions, people in NI were found to throw themselves into the festivities, with 87% saying they spend more on presents at Christmas than on birthdays or any other occasions.

A massive 84% also choose to distract ourselves from "queue rage" by having conversations with strangers or humming along to a Christmas song, with Band Aid's 'Do They Know It's Christmas?' topping the list. The all-important Christmas parties proved popular as well, with 71% agreeing that a night out in the pub with friends and family is the best way to spend their money. And when it comes to traditions in the house, movie re-runs of festive favourites are essential, with 70% voting 'Elf' as the top Christmas movie. Cheesy Christmas jumpers also featured in the survey, with 33% admitting to owning one.

Commenting on the results, Colum Campbell, Brand Manager for Harp, said: "Last month the Office of National Statistics released figures claiming that the people of Northern Ireland were happier than those in any other part of the UK and our research confirms just that, showing that at Christmas our optimistic spirit is even more apparent.

"From singing instead of sulking, banter over 'queue rage', the people of Northern Ireland certainly know how to look on the HARP® side."

(JP/CD)