What Is an Irish Wake? Traditions, Attire, Etiquette

Why Irish Heritage makes their Funerals Special

‍Unique traditions are interwoven into the fabric of modern Irish society. As in life, so in death, the cultural heritage makes for special ways to commemorate one’s life.

The atmosphere of an Irish wake is often filled with stories, songs, laughter, and tears.

It may sound strange, but this form of commemoration is deeply meaningful. Let’s examine its multifaceted nature in depth.

What Is an Irish Wake

An Irish Wake represents a cornerstone among Irish funeral traditions, embodying a profound, bittersweet amalgamation of mourning and celebration unique to the Emerald Isle’s cultural fabric.

• Irish Wake: it serves as both a memorial service and a life celebration.
• Location: typically held in the family home, the wake is a communal gathering that honors the departed with a dual nature unlike any other: it is a space where tears can freely mix with laughter, and grief coexists with gratitude for the life lived.
• Tone: There is somber reverence for the deceased, intertwined with joyous recollections and shared stories.
• Atmosphere: with its rich tapestry of emotions, encapsulates a deeply held belief in the importance of commemorating a life in all its complexity, making it a truly unparalleled experience in the realm of funeral customs.

Many cultures feature mourning rituals to honor the departed, yet none blend remembrance with joy as distinctively as the Irish funeral traditions do.

Nonetheless, there exists a ceremony with similar characteristics—what is celebration of life ceremony? This event similarly marries the aspects of commemorating a life with elements of joy and celebration.

History of the Irish Wake

The Irish wake goes back millennia and its roots are firmly entrenched in Ireland’s cultural heritage.

• It is believed to stem from ancient Celtic beliefs that the soul lingered for some time after death.
• Those who attended a wake were often there to guard the body against evil spirits. 
• It has also been suggested that when Christianity arrived in Ireland, the idea was adopted and adapted to the Christian belief of guarding the soul until its final journey.

This combination of beliefs has resulted in a truly unique form of mourning.

Why is it called a wake? The stories are diverse and interesting. 

• You’ve likely heard the urban legend that the name came about from (self-inflicted) lead poisoning in the mid-centuries. 
• The truth is considerably less odd — the term came from the Catholic notion of vigil (or wake), which is an intrinsic part of many burial traditions.

Irish Wake Traditional Practices

There are a number of unique, and respected practices, including (but not limited to):

• Candles are lit – to light the way for the soul’s journey.
• Opening windows for the soul to leave – it’s believed the soul must be allowed to leave freely, so windows and doors are opened after the body has been laid out.
• Mirrors are covered – some do this to prevent the soul from getting distracted or stepping into other worlds on its journey.

• Clocks are often stopped at the time of death – more typically in Christian and Irish traditions, to keep the soul from being bound by time.
• Keening is an ancient form of mourning chant – it’s another unique element of the Irish wake traditions. There is singing of songs and crying out loud as a way for mourners to show their grief. The mourning cries can be heard coming from the family of the deceased as they express the pain of loss.

Who Attends the Wake

In Irish culture, wakes are open events, and often anyone who knew the deceased or their family is welcome to come and pay their respects.

• A wake ceremony is an informal gathering; no invitations are usually sent out. Instead, word of mouth or a newspaper announcement is used.
• An Irish wake is typically held in the home of the deceased, funeral home, or other informal venues such as community centers, reception halls with a reception at the pub.
• It’s customary to bring a gift or flowers to the wake, both as a token of respect for the deceased and to offer comfort and condolences to the family. These gifts can be placed near the body or given directly to the family.
• It’s considered respectful to express your condolences when attending a wake if you can. Simple phrases like “I’m so sorry for your loss.” or “My thoughts are with you during this difficult time.” can go a long way in providing comfort.
• You may also want to share your fondest memories of the deceased. This is a way for family and friends to come together and celebrate the departed’s life.

What to Wear When Going to a Wake

When attending an Irish wake, it is crucial to bear in mind that the Irish funeral traditions are steeped in deep respect and reverence for the deceased.

Wear conservative clothing such as dark colors or black out of respect for the family and their loss. Bright colors should be avoided, as they can be seen as inappropriate.

Food and Beverages at an Irish Wake 

At an Irish wake, food and beverages are often served to those in attendance.

• Having a drink at an Irish wake is one of the cornerstone traditions. 
• While it’s a somber occasion, it can also be a time for celebrating their life and sharing special memories with family and friends.
• Often, all would raise a glass together in respect of the deceased; typically this would be beer or whiskey. 
• Sympathy gifts and sympathy gift baskets containing a selection of food, teas, or whiskey are traditionally given to the family of the deceased as a sign of respect. 

Conclusion

The Irish wake is a unique gathering that has been part of Irish culture for millennia.

Its combination of mourning and celebration is an important reminder of what made the person who has passed away special while offering comfort to those left behind.

It is an opportunity to come together as a community to share memories, express emotions, and celebrate life in all its forms.

As such, it is an integral part of what makes the Irish people what they are today. 

By understanding what is an Irish wake and honoring the traditions, we can ensure that the memory of our loved ones will live on in our hearts and minds. After all, there’s an Irish saying about death:

“Death leaves a heartache no one can heal; love leaves a memory no one can steal.”

FAQ’s

From which ancient custom do wakes held today originate?

Wakes held today originate from ancient Irish and Christian customs. The practice of wakes is believed to have originated in the 5th century with Irish monks who used them to keep the soul from getting distracted or stepping into other worlds on its journey.

Why is it called a wake?

The term “wake” comes from the Old English waecan, meaning to watch or guard. It is believed that this name was given in reference to keeping a vigil over the body of the deceased, as well as keeping their spirit safe on its journey and preventing it from wandering into other worlds.

How long after someone dies is the wake?

The wake usually takes place the day after a person dies, or sometimes in that same week, and typically lasts 24 hours. However, this can vary depending on different cultures and religious customs.

Candle Options to Light at an Irish Wake?

If you’re looking for candles, here is a small selection of bulk candles from Amazon; providing an affordable and poignant gesture.

US –

• Shamrock Pewter Claddagh Designed Vanilla Candle https://amzn.to/3utj9Tg
• Flameless Candles, Antizer Set of 12 White https://amzn.to/3SjKT5Z
• Tealights, Stonebriar Set of 96 White https://amzn.to/49fRVOX

UK –

• Shamrock Pewter Claddagh Designed Vanilla Candle https://amzn.to/3UzpEys
• Pillar Candles, Spaaz Set of 20 Uncsented White https://amzn.to/3tVVJFO
• Tealights, Spaaz Set of 200 White https://amzn.to/4b19Bzh