Irish culture has been shaped by Ireland’s natural environment, turbulent historical events, powerful institutions, relentless experiences of migration, and also slow and rapid social changes. The only way to learn and understand the Irish humour, interest in and the enjoyment of other, the phenomenon of the Late Late Show and debates over best cup of tea, is to immerse yourself into it all.

Irish slang

A conversation with an Irish person could be a great way into learning the culture if you could understand what they are talking about! Irish people use slang every day. There are hundreds of words and expressions no English speaker ever heard of!

Ease yourself into speaking Irish English by checking some of the expressions here or get an idea of the Irish Conversation minefield by watching the video below.

Social etiquette

Before you start uncovering the curiosities of Irish behaviour, check out the video below to get a grasp of some basic Irish Social etiquette.

Irish history

There are endless resources (books, talks, websites) analyzing Irish history (and culture, and slang!) from all angles. Check out your local library or browse the web – you can start here if you like reading, or here if you prefer a podcast form.

Irish traditional music

If you can’t simply join a local trad session, Irish Traditional Music Archive may give you a glimpse into the unbelievable musical talents of ordinary Irish people.