Ireland holds centuries-old superstitions and unique beliefs. They celebrate New Year’s with many symbolic traditions. Here are some common Irish traditions you can use to ring in the New Year in Celtic fashion.
Spring Cleaning
Spring cleaning might seem quite early for December or January, but for the Irish, a tidy space = a tidy mind. This centuries-old tradition is in preparation for the New Year. It brings a sense of cleanliness and organization to rid the chaos of the old year. Irish folks believe their house should be a clean slate that follows into the New Year. New memories, experiences, and people.
It’s a great activity to get family and friends involved. Togetherness and helping one another hold a significant meaning in this particular tradition. Many students could use their break to organize their dorms and living spaces in time for the new semester. You can get rid of the mess from last semester and prepare for a fresh start, which includes; removing and replacing papers, books, and other supplies and cleaning out drawers, closets, and fridges. It’s great for your mental health to alleviate stress or anxiety. Cleaning is a great tool to develop focus and feel a sense of calm.
Banging Of the Bread
The Irish love to bang bread on the walls and doors of their homes. The custom is to ward off evil spirits and bad luck. Banging the bread will also protect your home and bring good spirits in. Women will often recite prayers during the banging of the bread. After the banging, the man of the house will eat three bites and fling the bread against the front door. This action prevents hunger and honours The Holy Trinity. The rest of the family gathers the bread pieces and eats them. And if you don’t have bread, you can bang a pot, wooden spoon, or pan.
Baking is an inclusive activity to share with others. Test your skills and try making popular Irish bread and cakes such as;
- Irish Soda Bread, Ireland’s most famous bread
- Brown Bread, a variety of soda bread
- Blaa Buns, a soft and chewy bread roll
- Porter Cake, a flavorful fruit cake
Placing Coal Around the House
Placing large amounts of coal around the house brings prosperity and plenty of opportunities. The Irish really enjoy this particular tradition as it’s connected to traditional Irish religious beliefs. For those who experienced a tough year, placing coal instills a belief of hope for better days.
Remembering the Deceased
Celebrating with family and friends is important, but also reflecting on those who have passed away. Families in Ireland participate in this tradition by setting up a place at the dinner table for the deceased. A door or window is also left off the latch to invite their spirits in. This honours those who have passed away in the past year. It’s an opportunity to appreciate the things the person did for you and their impact on your life or community. While mourning or grieving is difficult for many, this tradition allows for some enjoyment to be shared.
Athbhliain faoi shéan is faoi mhaise dhuit! (Happy New Years to you!)