The Irish have many beautiful and inspiring ways to wish someone well, and these are some of the best Irish toasts that are used for all occasions.
We all know the Irish are renowned for having a way with words, the gift of the gab if you will, so of course, there are a variety of iconic Irish toasts that can suit any occasion.
Irish toasts are an integral part of Irish culture, as a celebration or a simple way of raising a glass with friends, and they go back centuries, which gives them a rich authenticity.
These toasts are also known as blessings, and they are often shared with family and friends during weddings, wakes, birthdays, and other celebrations to wish good fortune, happiness, and everything in between.
With each raised glass, the Irish weave warm words, heartfelt blessings, and humourous anecdotes, creating beautiful moments.
So, with that in mind, here are some popular Irish toasts filled with warmth, wit, and wisdom.
10. “May you have warm words on a cold evening, a full moon on a dark night, and a smooth road all the way to your door” – a toast for all occasions
This lovely Irish toast can be used for all occasions and revolves around offering someone comforting words in dark times and finding clarity and inspiration during difficult situations.
9. “May the best day of your past be the worst day of your future” – always look forward
This one may sound confusing, but this has to be one of the best Irish toasts for its simplicity and the fact that it is straight to the point. It wishes that each day ahead is better than the last.
8. “May you live as long as you want and never want as long as you live” – for a long and fulfilling life
This famous Irish toast hopes for a long and fulfilling life, where you will never want for anything and enjoy many years of contentment and happiness.
7. “May you be in heaven a full half-hour before the devil knows you dead” – the afterlife
This old Irish expression refers to the two destinations in the afterlife, heaven and hell, which Christianity teaches. It is a wish that you will have a peaceful passing and make it to the former before the devil can do anything about it.
6. “Here’s to a sweetheart, a bottle and a friend. The first beautiful, the second full, the last ever faithful” – one of the best Irish toasts
An Irish toast which celebrates everything from romantic relationships to everlasting friendships. In typical Irish fashion, it is a wish that you never run out of alcohol, too!
5. “May your pockets be heavy and your heart be light. May good luck pursue you each morning and night” – for good luck
This one is one of the best Irish toasts that wish someone financial prosperity, good luck, and a lighthearted spirit. It is one of the most typical toasts out there, still in use today.
4. “May your neighbours respect you, trouble neglect you, the angels protect you, and heaven accept you” – for all aspects of life
An Irish toast that combines every blessing possible is a keeper, and this traditional toast does just that and wishes you good luck in all aspects of life.
3. “Here’s to a long life and a merry one. A quick death and an easy one. A pretty girl and an honest one. A cold pint and another one” – for a joyful life
This is a toast to a joyful and honest life while enjoying the company of good friends. This toast is often used among Irish people throughout the country.
2. “May you always have a clean shirt, a clear conscience and enough coins in your pocket to buy a pint” – it’s the little things that matter
This is one of the most beloved and witty Irish toasts. It combines Irish humour with a genuine blessing and can be used anytime.
1. “May your troubles be less and your blessings be more, and nothing but happiness come through your door” – less worries, more happiness
This is one of the best Irish toasts, commonly used for all occasions to wish someone a lifetime of luck and few troubles.
As you can tell, the Irish have a great way of sharing wise words with friends and family on every occasion.
The best part is that many of the Irish blessings, toasts, and phrases we hear these days date back many years and have been passed down through generations. This allows Irish culture to continue to thrive in Ireland and worldwide.
READ NEXT: May the road rise up to meet you: the meaning behind the traditional Irish blessing.
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