Traditions & Customs in Ireland

Irish Tradtions

Everyone has some form of tradition that is passed through generations of families, most of which we never bothering exploring.

Unfortunately, as generations come and go so does our typical way of life, our cultural lifestyle and any tradition we may know of today. Some of the traditions listed here are gone forever and will no longer be found on the entire island of Ireland.

Old Traditions of Ireland

A typical Irish tradition is probably hundreds of years old and some still seen as a common tradition for many families. Below are some of the traditions we’ve covered.

Irish Blessings, a thing of the past

Ireland has dramatically changed over the years leaving behind some of the older traditions. One thing that is not as popular as it once was. Many of the Irish blessings that are a thing of the past in Ireland are still kept alive by people from all over the world.

Read more about Irish Blessings & sayings.


Irish wedding traditions that you may not know

A typical Irish traditional wedding is a beautiful ceremony to see or take part in. From the stunning attire of both the bride and groom, traditionally the later would be dressed in a kilt made from the tartan of his clan. The bride would as is done to-day be dressed in a white dress to symbolize her purity.

Read more about Irish wedding traditions.


Irish death traditions & customs

Although death is a sad occasion a traditional wake is seldom solemn. Friends and family alike gather and share memories and funny stories about the deceased. Food and drink is always present and although the church tried to ban alcohol from wakes it was unsuccessful.

Read more about Irish death traditions.


St Patrick’s Day Traditions

March 17th marks the day of St Patrick, celebrated by millions of people around the world. In Ireland, St Patrick’s Day was always held as an important religious day to celebrate the teachings of Christianity by St Patrick.

Read more on how the Irish celebrate St Patrick’s day.


Easter Sunday in Ireland

Many family households would prepare their homes for Easter Sunday by doing what would be better known as “spring cleaning” to prepare the house for blessing by the local priest which is a religious ceremony that dates back hundreds of years.

Read more about Celebrating Irish Easter traditions.


Halloween Traditions in Ireland

To-day Halloween is celebrated all around the globe but the Halloween Holiday has its history firmly planted in Ireland. Halloween is also known as Samhain, All Hallows Eve, Hallowmas and Hallowtide. It is celebrated on 31st October but the holiday of Halloween is not just celebrated on the one day anymore as the Christian holidays of All Saints Day, November 1st and All Souls Day, November 2nd are celebrated as well.

Read more about Halloween Ireland.


Celebrating Christmas in Ireland

Most, if not all, Irish families decorate their homes with lights, tinsel, and baubles. A Christmas tree is usually erected in the family home on the first day of the holy advent calendar. The tree will be beautifully decorated with an angel on top, gifts will lay underneath as seen with many family homes around the world.

Read more on Christmas traditions in Ireland.

Last updated March 2, 2020.

About the Author

Serena
I'm Serena from Donegal, Ireland! I love photography, folklore, travel and cats. I'm a guest writer for YourIrish.com and I hope you enjoy reading my articles as much as I enjoy writing them.