Irish Traditions
This lively style of footwork-heavy dance became world-famous after the 1994 show Riverdance
Irish step dancing
If someone is a bit clueless or out of touch, you’d say they’re “away with the ____.”
fairies
his terrible event in the 1840s caused mass starvation and emigration.
the Great Famine
This city on the River Lee is Ireland’s second largest.
Cork
Ireland reached the quarter-finals of this major tournament in 1990
FIFA World Cup
The harp became so iconic in Ireland that this global beverage company uses it as its logo
Guinness
A group heading out for drinks might say they’re going “on the ____.”
lash
This river, Ireland’s longest, flows through Limerick.
River Shannon
This city is known for King John’s Castle
Limerick
Ireland’s all‑time leading goalscorer with 68 goals.
Robbie Keane
On St. Patrick’s Day, many households serve this hearty dish of bacon boiled with cabbage.
bacon and cabbage
If she says “Stop acting the hoor,” she’s accusing you of this.
messing, misbehaving, being cheeky
The Republic of Ireland officially left the British Commonwealth in this decade.
1940s
Home to Eyre Square and famous for its arts and music scene, this western city calls itself the “City of the Tribes
Galway
This Olympic boxer from Bray became a world‑renowned professional lightweight champion.
Katie Taylor
This November Celtic fire festival marks the shift into darker months and is often confused with Samhain
Oíche Shamhna
If someone is “gurning,” they’re definitely doing this.
complaining
People once kissed this stone to gain the “gift of the gab.”
Blarney Stone
This river separates Limerick from Clare.
River Shannon
This athlete won Olympic gold for Ireland in the 1996 games in Atlanta for swimming.
Michelle Smith
This traditional Irish first‑day‑of‑spring celebration occurs on February 1st and honors a saint and a Celtic goddess.
St. Brigid’s Day
Used to describe someone who’s a bit silly or foolish, this word can also be affectionate — “Ah, you big ____.”
eejit
This university in Dublin is home to the famous Book of Kells.
Trinity College
This county is home to Ireland’s capital city.
Dublin
Ireland’s national rugby team plays most home matches at this Dublin stadium.
Aviva Stadium