The Celtic connection with Scotland is unique. After arriving in Scotland, the Celts left a huge mark on Scottish traditions, culture, and history. Scots still follow the Celts’ traditions, which played a role in shaping Scottish culture and identity. This information aims to tell you about the impact of Celtic traditions.
Celtic Festivals and Celebrations in Scotland
Let us discuss some traditional Celtic festivities and how common they became over time in Scotland. Multiple events are held annually to celebrate the connection of Celtic customs with the natural world.
Music and Dance
No one might be unaware of Scottish Ceilidh, a traditional dance there. Other than being traditional, it is common at every event, whether it is a Highland Games event or a wedding ceremony. This dancing practice belongs to the Celts. The word “Ceilidh” itself is a Gaelic word which means gatherings. Therefore, the importance of these dancing events proves how Celtic traditions impacted Scots.
Celtic Art and Craftsmanship
Scotland is popular for its art history, while the role of Celtic art and craftsmanship is quite common. Celtic arts, design, and styles are very easy to sport nationwide. Thick Welsh Dragons and Thistle are common examples of Celtic art. The art played a role in telling Scots about the symbolic visuals, which was uncommon prior. Some other examples include:
- Traditional Patterns on Clothing like Tartan Kilts
- Jewelry Designs
- Architecture Detail
- Spirals and Animal Motifs
Samhain
Another, so-called Scottish event, Samhain, is Celtic in origin. The event takes place on 31st October every year to celebrate the transition of summer into winter. Bonfires are a common celebration on this day. Initially celebrated by Celtic pagans, this day was the new year’s event. Scots also adopted this day. According to them it was the end of harvest season connected to Halloween celebrations.
Hebridean Celtic Festival
A musical festival common in Scotland, the Hebridean Celtic Festival, has roots back to the Celts. Because of its good reputation for preserving nature and traditions, Scotland decided to maintain the worth of Celtic music. So, Scotland announced the Hebridean Celtic Festival in 1996, where Celts from all corners gather and celebrate their tradition.
The festival usually occurs in the western Islands. The Hebridean Celtic Festival has a significant economic impact on the Western Isles of Scotland. In addition to its cultural impact, it helps to secure jobs and promote sustainability.
Lughnasadh
The festival is named after the Celtic god Lugh, often associated with light, skill, and harvest. It is another Celtic event that Scots and Celts living there still observe annually. The festival marks the beginning of the harvesting season. Historically, it is associated with the Celtic deity Lugh and is considered a time to honor the cycle of life and the changing seasons.
Celtic Folklore
The tradition of folklore and deities is quite ancient in Scotland. Most of these tales started there after the arrival of the Celts, and locals still believed in them. Some common folktales are:
- Bean Nighe
- Selkies
- Redcaps
- The Wulver
- Each Uisge
Beltane
Known as May Day in Scotland, Beltane is a pagan event they have celebrated for centuries. The festival aims to welcome summer. According to Celtic belief, the day brings life and fertility back to life after the winters. The day’s celebrations usually involve bonfires, the creation of May Bushes, and feasting, which are also Celtic traditions.
The Historical Roots of Celtic Traditions
When we talk about the roots of Celtic traditions in Scotland, we have to move back to 1000 BC. Celt is not their original name; it is the modern name of the people living in “Ilivedrlivethe edge.” With time, Scots started following different traditions and festivals of Celts that are still celebrated there, showing the impact of Celtic traditions on Scottish culture.
Final Verdict
The impact of Celtic traditions on Scotland has been significant throughout history. Scots, with time, started celebrating Celtic mythologies. Every entity in Scotland is inspired by Celts, whether it is Ceilidh, Highland games, season-welcoming tradition, or art. In return, Scotland has increased the global reach of Celtic traditions, and a large number of countries worldwide admire them.
