Visiting Ireland is all about experiencing life the Irish way, and there are several customs that will amuse and entertain travelers. From live music to Guinness, Hallowe’en and St Patrick’s Day, the Irish extend a warm welcome to come and enjoy their customs.
Drink a pint of Guinness in a pub
Communities are often centered around a public house and in Ireland, they are meeting places for friends and families. All Irish people enjoy a bit of ‘craic’, which is slang for fun, and it’s in the pub that this is most evident. Don’t forget the obligatory pint of Guinness too.
Live music hits all the right notes
Music can be heard at venues all around the country and musicians will gather to play in bars and clubs. Irish instruments include the harp and the ukulele, the flute, the fiddle, the tin whistle, the uilleann pipes, and the bodhran.
Hallowe’en in Ireland is legendary
Cities like Londonderry host legendary street parties for Hallowe’en, with people wearing fancy dress and the streets taking on a carnival feel. The origin of the festival is found in Celtic Ireland, with its name derived from the festival called Samhain.
St Patrick’s Day is celebrated around the world
St Patrick’s Day is very much associated with Ireland, but an interesting fact is that many people do not realize that he wasn’t from Ireland. Born in Britain, the young boy was kidnapped and forced to live as a slave and shepherd. Patrick had a strong faith and prayed to God, and today Ireland celebrates the introduction of Christianity.
An Irish Merino wool sweater embodies everything about the island and they are fashionable and versatile. An Irish Merino wool sweater is perfect for keeping the chills of winter at bay and they are available from a range of retailers.
Irish people are known to be friendly and approachable. Reported by RTE, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are looking forward to building a lasting friendship with the Irish people during a visit to Ireland, according to Kensington Palace.
The St Brigid’s Cross is an Irish symbol
The Brigid’s cross or Brigit’s cross is woven from rushes. The cross has four arms tied at the ends with a square in the middle. Brigid’s crosses are named after Brigid of Kildare, who is one of the patron saints of Ireland.
