Let’s just say it – some traditions might be confusing if you didn’t grow up with them.
Animals that bring bad luck? Not as uncommon as you might think. Some traditions go back a long time, others might be a bit more modern.
No matter the age, they’re part of Ireland. So let’s look at some of them and explain what they’re all about. You might just find your next family tradition in the mix.
The wake – old, but still very much happening
A wake is one of the oldest funeral traditions in Ireland. Family, friends, or even people you’ve never met can come by and pay their respects. Is it unusual if it’s people you don’t even know? Maybe. Is it a nice way to say your last goodbyes? Yes.
At the wake, people will share memories, offer prayers, and celebrate the deceased’s life. People are grieving, but also share happy stories.
It’s this mix of happy and sad that makes this tradition less confusing, really. It’s a special way to remember someone.
The obsession with tea – it fixes (almost) everything
Got a bad day? Stepped into a puddle on the way to work? Your football team lost? Care for a cuppa? Nothing a good cup of tea can’t fix – or at least try to make a bit better. It’s almost an instant reaction to whatever news you’re sharing.
Sometimes you don’t even need to share anything. If you stop by someone’s house, odds are you’ll be offered a cup of tea within the first two minutes of arriving. So, how do you take yours? One or two sugars?
Giving out – come again?
The Irish are known for being friendly. However, there is a long-standing tradition of giving out – complaining, criticizing. This could literally happen to anyone about any topic: people, the weather, last night’s dinner, or the public transport system.
There are some phrases that sound harmless, but might sting more than you’d like. You shouldn’t take this too personally, though. It’s lighthearted and part of social bonding, often meant in a joking kind of way. The tone will tell you if it was serious or not.
Christmas Day Swim – like outside?
Winter in Ireland is certainly pretty cold. However, the cold doesn’t stop the Irish from taking part in one of their beloved Christmas traditions: the Christmas Day Swim. Yes, outside. In the cold water. Voluntarily, and often for charity.
It’s been a tradition for many years, and you can find various popular locations for the swim on 25 December all over Ireland. Afterwards, just make sure to warm up. How about that cup of tea that seems to solve everything?
Superstitions – they’re not outdated
Many superstitions are still very much alive in Ireland. Interestingly enough, many of them relate to birds. For example: Don’t harm a robin, it’s bad luck. However, there is one that the entire country is aware of: the fear of seeing a lone magpie.
You might be wondering why? It’s an omen for bad luck, misfortune, or even death. There is a way to avoid that, though: You need to salute the magpie – wave, bow, or even say hello to the bird. Show respect, and you can avert the misfortune.
Buying your round – one for you, one for me
Going to the pub is on everybody’s itinerary when travelling to Ireland. It’s just such a big part of Irish culture. One thing non-Irish might not be used to is buying rounds. It’s basically one for me, one for you. Except it’s for the entire group you’re with.
So someone gets the first round, another person gets the next, and so on. Eventually, it’ll be your turn to get the round. Whatever you do, do not leave before it’s your turn to get the round. You don’t want to deal with the aftermath of that.
The Late Late Toy Show – is it bigger than Christmas?
A TV programme in the list of traditions? Yes, absolutely. The Late Late Toy Show is one of the most iconic TV shows in Ireland. It’s on TV once a year around the holiday season, and it’s the show that will get everyone in front of the TV.
The show is basically about toys, children, and very heart-warming moments. It brings everyone together and has been such a staple for Christmas that no Irish person could imagine the holidays without watching it.
Which of these traditions baffles you the most? Other countries might do things differently, but that’s the beauty of travelling – you get to experience it. Who knows, maybe next time you see a magpie you might salute it, just in case.
