The Irish Wake: A Timeless Tradition of Mourning, Celebration, and Community

For centuries, the Irish wake has stood as a testament to the resilience, faith, and deep-rooted traditions of the Irish people. More than just a solemn farewell, it is a celebration of life, filled with stories, songs, and the unmistakable warmth of Irish hospitality.

Unlike many other cultures, where mourning is often quiet and private, the Irish wake is a blend of grief, remembrance, and communal support, making it one of Ireland’s most unique and enduring customs.

If you’ve ever wondered about the traditions, history, and etiquette surrounding an Irish wake, this guide will walk you through what to expect, what to bring, and the cultural significance of this cherished ritual.

What Happens at an Irish Wake?

An Irish wake is a gathering held after someone has passed, typically in their home or a close family member’s house. Friends, neighbors, and relatives visit to pay their respects, comfort the grieving family, and share memories.

At a traditional wake, you can expect:

✔ The body being laid out in the home – Often in the living room, surrounded by candles, flowers, and religious symbols.
✔ Visitors coming and going – People may stay for hours or even overnight, as there is an open-door policy for guests.
✔ Prayers, rosaries, and blessings – Catholic traditions are often observed, including reciting the Rosary.
✔ Storytelling and reminiscing – Sharing memories of the deceased is a key part of the wake.
✔ Food and drink – Guests are served tea, sandwiches, and in many cases, alcohol (often whiskey or stout).

An Irish wake is both a farewell and a celebration, where mourning and laughter often intertwine.

What is the Three-Day Irish Wake?

Traditionally, an Irish wake lasted up to three days, allowing family and friends ample time to say goodbye. While modern wakes are often shorter, some still follow the three-day structure:

Day 1 – Close family members prepare the house, lay out the body, and welcome early visitors.
Day 2 – The main gathering occurs, with extended family, neighbors, and friends coming to pay their respects.
Day 3 – The final day involves a funeral Mass, procession, and burial.

This tradition has evolved over time, but in rural Ireland, it is not uncommon for wakes to still last multiple days.

What is a Wake in Irish Slang?

In Irish slang, a wake doesn’t just mean a funeral gathering—it can also refer to a lively, informal gathering that involves drinks, music, and stories.

You’ll sometimes hear people jokingly refer to a wild night out as “a bit of a wake”, especially if it involved reminiscing, singing, and maybe a few too many pints.

What Happens at a Wake?

At its core, a wake is about honoring the deceased, but the way it unfolds depends on the family, region, and personal beliefs. Here’s what typically happens:

✅ Viewing the Body – If the wake is traditional, the body is laid out for visitors to pay their respects.
✅ Conversations and Shared Memories – People swap stories about the person’s life, their character, and favorite moments.
✅ Eating and Drinking – Wakes are known for serving tea, sandwiches, and often whiskey or Guinness.
✅ Prayers and Blessings – Depending on the family, priests or family members may lead prayers.
✅ Music and Singing – In some Irish families, traditional Irish ballads are sung to honor the deceased.

Do You Wear Black to an Irish Wake?

While black is common, an Irish wake does not have a strict dress code. Unlike a funeral, where formal attire is expected, wakes are more casual and communal. However, it’s always respectful to dress in muted or dark colors unless otherwise specified by the family.

What Not to Do at a Wake?

Attending an Irish wake is about showing respect—but there are some unwritten rules:

🚫 Don’t arrive empty-handed – Bring food, a drink, or a card to show support.
🚫 Don’t overstay your welcome – It’s okay to visit briefly and express condolences.
🚫 Don’t make it about yourself – The focus should be on the deceased and their family.
🚫 Don’t ignore traditions – If a prayer or toast is being made, participate respectfully.
🚫 Don’t bring up inappropriate topics – Avoid discussing money, old feuds, or controversies.

An Irish wake is about unity and comfort, so being thoughtful and considerate is key.

What Do You Serve at an Irish Wake?

Food and drink play a major role in an Irish wake. Traditionally, wakes offered simple yet comforting foods, including:

🍞 Brown Bread & Butter – A staple at any Irish gathering.
🥪 Tea & Sandwiches – Usually ham, cheese, or egg salad sandwiches.
🥧 Apple Tart or Cakes – A sweet treat for guests.
🥃 Whiskey or Guinness – Alcohol is often served as part of the tradition.

Modern Irish wakes sometimes include hot meals or catered food, but simplicity and hospitality remain at the heart of wake traditions.

What to Expect at a Catholic Wake?

A Catholic wake in Ireland often includes religious elements, such as:

✝ The Rosary – Family and friends may gather to recite prayers.
✝ Blessings by a Priest – A priest may visit to bless the body.
✝ Holy Water & Religious Symbols – A crucifix or Holy Water may be placed near the deceased.
✝ Mass Cards & Condolence Books – Guests often sign a book or leave a message of support.

The Catholic Church continues to influence wake traditions, even as modern wakes become more flexible.

Why Do Irish People Cover Mirrors at a Wake?

One of the most mysterious Irish wake traditions is covering mirrors in the home. This stems from old superstitions and folklore, with theories including:

🔮 Preventing the spirit from getting trapped – Some believed the soul could become stuck in the mirror.
🔮 Avoiding bad luck – Mirrors were thought to be portals to the afterlife.
🔮 Respect for the dead – Covering mirrors helped focus attention on mourning rather than vanity.

Though less common today, some families still follow this tradition, especially in rural areas.

What Should You Bring to a Wake?

If you’re attending an Irish wake, it’s customary to bring a small token of support. Here are some thoughtful options:

✔ A sympathy card – A simple, heartfelt note.
✔ Flowers or a plant – A common Irish tradition.
✔ Homemade food – Bringing sandwiches or a cake is always appreciated.
✔ A bottle of whiskey or wine – If appropriate, this can be a way to toast the deceased.
✔ A donation to charity – Some families prefer charitable donations in memory of their loved one.

The main goal is to offer comfort and support to the grieving family.

Final Thoughts: The Enduring Legacy of the Irish Wake

The Irish wake is more than just a funeral tradition—it is a celebration of life, a moment of connection, and a deeply rooted cultural practice. Whether old or modern, these wakes offer solace, storytelling, and a sense of community that few other traditions can match.

👉 Want to learn more about Irish funeral traditions? Read our guide here:
🔗 Irish Death Blessings: A Legacy of Comfort and Hope

💡 What are your thoughts on Irish wake traditions? Have you ever attended one? Share your experiences below!