The Irish New Year traditions that span the centuries

From the odd to unusual, the Celtic spirit prevails

By

MOLLY MULDOON,

IrishCentral Deputy Editor

Larger Text

Print

E-mail

Make a comment

The ancient Irish traditions linked to New Year's Eve

Photo by Google Images

Tweet

Irish is home to some of the most unique traditions and superstitions and this is especially true when it comes to ringing in the New Year.

Centuries ago it was customary to begin the New Year with a spotlessly clean house. As a result houses were thoroughly cleaned as it signified a fresh start to the New Year.

Another tradition involved banging on doors and walls of the house with Christmas bread to chase the bad luck out of the house and invite the good spirits in.

On New Year’s night, families would remember those who has passed away that year before by setting a place for them at the dinner table and leaving the door unlatched.

A lot of meaning was also placed on who would be the first person to pass through the door on New Year’s day. If it was a tall dark handsome man, this would bring the home and it’s occupants good luck but if it was a red haired girl it would bring hardship and grief.

Those who were single were advised to place sprigs of mistletoe, holly and ivy leaves under their pillow so they would dream of their future wives and husbands.

At midnight many would enter the house through the front door and leave through the back door for good luck.

Do you know of any other Irish New Year traditions? Please tell us below.

Print

E-mail

Tweet