Avanach

Avanach is a traditional Irish wedding celebration that takes place in the early morning hours of the wedding day. This custom is often associated with rural Irish communities, particularly in County Mayo. The celebration typically involves the groom and his friends gathering at the door of the bride's home, where they would proceed to sing, dance, and play music throughout the early hours of the morning.

The term "avanach" is derived from the Irish word "abú naoch," meaning "beginning of day." During the celebration, the groom and his friends would often engage in activities such as playing pennywhistles, singing folk songs, and reciting poetry. The morning festivities could continue for several hours, often culminating with a rousing rendition of traditional Irish songs and dances.

Historically, the avanach celebration served as a way for the groom and his friends to create a lively atmosphere on the wedding day, as well as to ensure a strong start to the married life. The custom is also believed to have a practical purpose: the early morning hour allowed the bride and her family to prepare for the day ahead, unencumbered by the noise and commotion of the celebration. Additionally, the avanach provided an opportunity for the groom and his party to pay respects to the bride's family before the official wedding ceremony. Today, while the tradition is still observed in some parts of Ireland, its practice has declined in many areas, largely due to the increasing urbanization and modernization of Irish society.