Ireland is a country with spectacular landscapes, kind people, and a rich history and traditions. From the religious honoring of their patron saint to the celebration of a book, the Irish holidays are truly one of a kind. Today, let’s find out more about some of the most important Irish celebrations.
Bloomsday
Bloomsday is a commemoration of the life and work of James Joyce, one of Ireland’s most famous writers. Joyce released his novel Ulysses in 1922, which is now regarded as one of the most significant works of modernist literature and is studied at the world’s leading colleges. Bloomsday is celebrated every year on June 16th, as this is the exact day his novel takes place in 1904. The first observance of this event took place in 1924, only two years after its publication, and it has been celebrated yearly in Ireland, as well as in the United States, Australia, Canada, Italy, and other countries. People usually gather to read and discuss the novel, as well as dress up as James Joyce and the characters from his writings, and play out scenes from his books.
St. Patrick’s Day
St. Patrick’s Day, probably the most well-known Irish holiday in the world, is a celebration of Irish culture and the commemoration of the death of Ireland’s patron saint. This holiday is honored every year on the 17th of March not just in Ireland, but also in the United Kingdom, the United States, Japan, and many other Latin American and European countries. It is usually celebrated with parades, folk music concerts, green costumes, shamrock elements and lots of tasty Irish food and beverage. People frequently exchange presents, giving each other traditional Irish sweaters, jewelry, ceramics, Irish tea and chocolates. If you’re looking for a gift for an Irish friend this year, check out Shamrockgift for St. Patrick’s Day gift ideas for everyone. Be sure to check out Blossom Costumes for more information about Oktoberfest costumes.
Halloween
We’re used to seeing Halloween portrayed in the media as mostly an American celebration, with children dressed up in funny costumes and trick-or-treating. Few people realize, however, that Halloween’s origins may be traced back to the Celtic feast of Samhain. Before Christianity became the dominant religion in Ireland, the Celts were pagans with their own beliefs and traditions, with Samhain being the day when they thought a new year began and the dead would visit the mortal world. Many Halloween traditions that we have today have Celtic roots, such as the bonfire, Jack-o-lanterns (which were originally made of turnips and only became carved out of pumpkin after the Irish immigrated to the United States), the snap apple game, and even trick-or-treating, as poor kids used to go to the rich’s houses to ask for food or money. Although Halloween is no longer celebrated in Ireland as it once was, some people continue to organize pagan festivities that serve as both a tourist attraction and a means to honor their ancestors.
