You are likely already familiar with Ireland’s most infamous shrieking spirit. But what exactly is a banshee? Is it a ghost? A spirit? A wraith? A demon? A fairy? In a word, yes. The banshee is all of those things, and so much more.
Category Archives: Folklore
Introducing the Irish Myths YouTube Channel
Same Celtic flavor, new bold format. You can now get your favorite in-depth explorations of Irish and Celtic mythology and folklore served up as video essays over at youtube.com/@irishmyths.
The 12 Best Irish Mythology Gifts on eBay
I searched the ancient dungeons of eBay and uncovered 25 Irish mythology treasures. The perfect holiday gift for the mythology nerd in your family awaits.
Why Do People Kiss Beneath Mistletoe?
Mistletoe has long been lauded as a “medico-magical” plant associated with fertility and divination. Learn how these Celtic connotations paved the way for solstice smooching.
Why Do People Put Up Mistletoe at Christmas?
The ancient Celts believed mistletoe was holy because it thrived in winter and clung to sacred trees, hovering between heaven and earth.
The Celtic Mistletoe Rite: A Golden Sickle, a White Cloth, and a Pair of (Unlucky) Oxen
Uncover the inner workings of an ancient druidic ceremony that paved the way for the Christmas tradition of kissing under the mistletoe.
The Top 7 Animated Irish Mythology Movies
A list of the top-rated animated feature films inspired by Irish folklore, fairy tales, legends, and myths as ranked by users of IMDb (the Internet Movie Database)
The Top 10 Irish Horror Movies
A list of the top-rated Irish horror films as ranked by users of IMDb. Surely one of these Irish-made spine-tinglers will be the highlight of your Samhain movie night.
Why Do We Go Trick-or-Treating on Halloween?
The origins of trick-or-treating date back to Samhain, Halloween’s ancient Celtic progenitor. Learn how this costume- and candy-based ritual got its start.
Why Do We Give Out Candy on Halloween?
Yes, even Halloween candy has an ancient Celtic origin. Turns out, Samhain spirits are a bit snacky. Offerings must be made to keep evil at bay.