The Late Late Toy Show is a cultural phenomenon in Ireland, but has it become too consumerist?
Over the past few years, a whole new consumer market surrounding The Late Late Toy Show has developed.
Retailers are selling Toy Show treat boxes for families, while many take to Instagram in brand new Christmas pyjamas to celebrate the occasion.
On Moncrieff, Irish Independent journalist Tanya Sweeney said she feels this hype surrounding The Late Late Toy Show is putting unnecessary pressure on parents.
"I went online and I started looking at €40 personalised Late Late Toy Show treat boxes on sale and major retailers are selling Toy Show pyjamas," she said.
"There are TV shows across the world that could only dream of this cultural influence.
Ryan Tubridy zooming on a scooter on The Late Late Toy Show. Photograph: Sasko Lazarov / RollingNews.ie"There's already a lot of expense happening at Christmas now without the Toy Show being yet another thing that we need to shell out for."
Ms Sweeney said the display of expensive toys also puts pressure on parents.
"I do wonder if the elves are going to have a major rush on their hands in the next few weeks," she said.
Ms Sweeney urged parents to resist the hype around The Late Late Toy Show.
"For those that need to hear it - having the matching jammies and the personalised treats does not make you a good parent," she said.
"Create your own traditions outside this Instagram BS.
"If you can't afford a €40 box with €6 worth of gear in it, then it's not a failing on your part."
Financial stress
Ms Sweeney said she understands why retailers want to "make hay while the sun shines", but stressed that this can put parents under financial pressure.
"It heaps [the pressure] on on top of the Santa visits, the ice-skating trips, the Gingerbread workshops.
"Parents are already pinned, and as wonderful as The Toy Show is, it doesn't help having to look at pyjamas and personalised treat boxes."
The Late Late Toy Show airs tomorrow on RTÉ One at 9.35pm.
Feature image: Ryan Tubirdy with Deborah Addeji and Louis Hanna on the set of The Late Late Toy Show, Sasko Lazarov / RollingNews.ie.
