English is the language of daily life in Dublin, but Irish (Gaeilge) is the first official language. Where newcomers meet Irish, how many people speak it, and why it matters in schools and public life.
Everyday culture in Ireland
Unwritten rules and everyday habits newcomers to Ireland often notice — with context, regional differences and practical tips.
Choose where you are moving from to see notes written for that contrast, where our editors found one.
Communication
Making friends
Many newcomers find that local clubs, especially the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA), are at the heart of community life in Ireland. What the GAA is, why clubs matter socially, and how to get involved.
Schools
Most Irish primary schools are state-funded but run under a religious patron. What newcomer parents commonly notice about school ethos, sacraments in the school day, multi-denominational options and opting out of religion.
Tipping
Tipping in Ireland is voluntary. What newcomers commonly notice about tips in restaurants and taxis, what a "service charge" on your bill means, and how the 2022 tips law protects staff.
Invitations and visits
Pubs are a common place to socialise in Ireland. What newcomers notice about "rounds", what "craic" means, and how to join in comfortably, including if you drink little or no alcohol.
Sundays and holidays
Ireland has 10 public holidays, most of them on Mondays, which create long "bank holiday weekends". The dates, what closes, St Brigid's Day and St Patrick's Day, and how Christmas affects services.