There are many traditions around the world. One of the most famous in Cork is kissing the Blarney Stone. It is said that if you kiss the stone, you will become eloquent. I'm not sure if I was gifted that by dangling upside down many feet in the air.
Something that was a very large culture shock to me was just the overall drinking culture. Casual drinking is widely accepted. Pubs serve food and often times it is much more affordable and tastier than a restaurant in Ireland. Do not be surprised to find families piling into the pubs around dinner time for the parents to enjoy a pint of Guinness and the children to enjoy the atmosphere.
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The food in Ireland is very similar to that in the United States. Although they have traditional foods like soda bread and Shepherd's Pie, you will also find cuisine from every area of the world. Potatoes are served with nearly every meal though, as is expected from the Irish!
The Irish people love their live music and so do I! Everywhere you look people will be playing music whether it is on the side of the road or inside the pubs at any time of day.
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Hooley's are held weekly at most pubs around Ireland. This entails singing, dancing, and good conversation. People are encouraged to bring their Irish step dancing shoes and join in the fun. Even if you cannot dance, it's fun to watch and join in the clapping and fun.