Oíche Chinn Bliana - New Years in Ireland

Most people in America know the traditions of New Years Eve here in the States.  If we go out we find a local bar or restaurant (and if you are in NYC you try to find one close to Times Square!), we dress in our best and we wait for the clock to strike midnight.  If you stay home you invite over family and friends, you break out the hors d'oeuvres, tune in to New Years Rockin' Eve and wait for the ball to drop.  But did you ever wonder what New Years was like in Ireland.  You would be surprised at the similarities and may be interested in the possibilities for new experiences.

In Gaelic it is known as Oíche Chinn Bliana and while the goal is to party and the venues are the same, there are some unique experiences and traditions that are worth making the trip for.  Starting well before the clock strikes 12, you can take a trip to Achill Island to experience the last sunset in Europe.  And if you want to start the new year on Achill you will see a traditional parade with pipers followed by a traditional morning swim in the icy Atlantic Ocean.

Or maybe you would rather experience some more spiritual experiences.  Head to the west of Dublin to Dunderry Park to experience a Shamanic New Years Celebration that will have you walking on fire and engaging in a little Trance dance. 

Or perhaps you chose to celebrate the new year with some consumer therapy.  Shopping in Dublin is key to the locals as the traditional Irish New Years celebration includes purchasing new linens and stocking up on various domestic supplies as they believe this will promise them a fresh start and prosperous New Year.

Sceptre Tours can help you realize your wish to experience New Years in Ireland as well as Christmas in Ireland with two amazing packages at the 5-Star Ritz Carlton Powerscourt that would make wonderful presents for that special someone in your life.