Culture & Traditions

Especially central to Irish society are Irish pubs, which often host vibrant impromptu musical sessions featuring locals playing instruments such as tin whistles and bodhráns, through which they create an atmosphere of community and joy. 

Another cornerstone of Irish culture is its literature, with giants like James Joyce and Oscar Wilde exploring themes of identity, society, and existential riddles through their works, capturing the spirit and resilience of the Irish people.

To truly experience the depth and diversity of this fascinating country requires a knowledgeable guide with whom to explore it. Start planning your own cultural immersion in Ireland by speaking with one of our Destination Specialists today.
 

Ireland’s Ancient Heritage and Mythology

From the legendary haunts of giants and fairies to the stomping grounds of medieval warriors and kings, Ireland is dotted with historical sites, including an abundance of castles and strongholds. 

Today’s travellers can wade into this rich past through visits to such iconic sites as the Hill of Tara, which has been a ceremonial and burial site since Neolithic times, as well as The Rock of Cashel, where Celtic kings were once crowned.

Prominent medieval strongholds include such must-visit sites as Blarney and Dublin Castles. 

But Ireland is far from just a museum island. It is also a place of living history, its culture and folklore ingrained in modern life. You can see this everywhere from the theatre stages of Dublin to fireside stools in local pubs, where friendly locals exercise their storied gift of gab. 

To experience the best of this multifaceted land, consult with one of our experts for an ideal itinerary for you.

Irish Religious Traditions and Holidays

For centuries, Catholic and pagan traditions have been rolled together by the Irish to become integral parts of their lives. At Christmas and Easter, for instance, all walks of life come together in joyous celebration, with decorations, markets, and parades seen in every corner of the island.

Thousands also take part in the pilgrimage up Croagh Patrick on the last Sunday of each July as well as in ancient celebrations such as St. Brigid’s Day (February 1) and Samhaim (Halloween), both of which are rooted in pagan observances. 

In almost every case, visitors are encouraged by locals to take part in the myriad of festivities that occur throughout the year. Speak to one of our Destination Specialists about the best ways and times to experience everything from Ireland’s many Christmas markets (popular ones are held in Dublin, Galway, Cork, and Waterford) to festivities celebrating St. Patrick, one of Ireland’s best known patron saints (St. Brigid of Kildare and St. Columba being two others).

Irish Daily Life and Etiquette

“Cead Mile Failte,” or “100,000 welcomes,” is a popular saying in Ireland, reflecting the warm and hospitable nature of the country and its people. Nowhere is this hospitality more evident than in Ireland’s world-renowned pubs. To step into an Irish pub (among the best and most famous are Tigh Chóilí in Galway and the Brazen Head, the Cobblestone, and the Stag’s Head in Dublin) is to immerse yourself in the very foundation of Irish culture and tradition. 

Full of lively conversation and good food and drink, pubs offer vacationers a chance to interact with locals and experience a slice of real life, so don't be shy about grabbing a pint and engaging with fellow patrons in some good Irish craic (good times). Just be mindful of some etiquette. Key rules involve never interrupting a Guinness pour, calling for (and covering) a round of drinks when you’re in a small group, and being patient and polite with servers and barkeeps, as it's a casual, community-focused experience. 

When they’re not at the pub, the Irish are typically at home with their families, as family life is a pillar of the Emerald Isle. If you’re invited to a private home, your host will generally go out of his or her way to make you feel comfortable, embodying a sense of "home is where the heart is.” It is a strong tradition to offer visitors tea or coffee, often accompanied by biscuits or snacks. Accepting the offer is a polite gesture.

Irish Festivals and Celebrations

No exploration of Irish culture and tradition would be complete without a major nod to St. Patrick’s Day. Originally observed in honour of one of Ireland’s patron saints, March 15 has become a worldwide celebration of all things Irish, with people from every corner of the globe encouraged to become “Irish for a day.” Celebrations including parades, musical performances, and céilís (social gatherings featuring folk songs, storytelling, and communal dancing) abound all over the island, and an influx of tourists is typical at this time of year. 

Other cultural celebrations include Samhain (Halloween) and Bealtaine (May Day), plus music festivals like Fleadh Cheoil, arts events in Galway, and seasonal gatherings like the Puck Fair and Cork Jazz Festival. 

Explore Irish Culture With Goway

From traditional music and food workshops to guided walking tours of literary Dublin to private jaunts through Ireland’s many castles and forts, our experts can help you immerse yourself in Ireland’s rich heritage with a host of specialized packages and itineraries. Talk to one of our Destination Specialists today to craft your perfect Irish cultural odyssey.

FAQs

What is the difference between Scottish and Irish culture?

Irish and Scottish cultures share Celtic roots but differ in identity, religion, and political ties, with Ireland having a strong Catholic-influenced national identity and Scotland a Protestant-majority one. Other differences include varying degrees of Gaelic language use as well as group distinctions: Ireland has county tartans, while Scotland is famous for its clan tartans. Both are known, though, for their hospitality, love of pubs, and reverence for nature and rural life. 

What is important to the Irish culture?

The Irish pride themselves on the importance of family, friends, and a sense of community. Music, literature, and dancing are also revered art forms.

What is Irish culture known for?

Irish culture is known for its rich storytelling, vibrant traditional music and dance (jigs, reels), literary giants (Yeats, Joyce, Wilde, O’Casey), iconic pubs with "trad sessions," strong Gaelic heritage, Celtic folklore (fairies, leprechauns), hearty cuisine, and famous sports like Gaelic football and hurling, all celebrated globally, especially during St. Patrick's Day. 

What mythological being is a part of St. Patrick’s day lore?

It is said in Irish folklore that St. Patrick drove all of the snakes out of Ireland for good.

What is the significance of cutting turf in Irish culture?

Once a primary source of fuel for light and heat, especially in rural areas, cutting turf (or peat) has become a symbol of Irish identity and resilience, evoking the scent of a traditional home and representing history, shared labour, and a slower way of life tied to the bogs. In many areas, the practice has been curtailed, limited by modern environmental restrictions.

What is the social etiquette in Ireland?

Irish social etiquette emphasizes warmth, sincerity, and respect for tradition, with interactions typically involving firm handshakes, making eye contact, understanding the importance of pub "rounds” (covering drinks when visiting pubs with a small group), and bringing small gifts (such as chocolates or wine) when visiting a private home.

What do Irish people do for fun?

The Irish have a natural affinity for a good time (craic), whether it’s an evening at the pub, attending a rousing hurling match, or going to a concert, theatre performance, or music festival.

What is the main religion in Ireland?

Ireland’s main religion is Roman Catholicism, with the Church having played an important role in everyday life throughout its modern history.

Does Ireland have a traditional dress?

Though much of it was suppressed by English rule, Ireland’s traditional dress is rooted in historical garments like the léine (tunic) and brat (cloak) for both sexes, later evolving with items like the gúna (woman's dress) and the woolly Aran sweater. Today, modern styles are common, though traditional costuming can still be seen in art forms like Irish step dancing.