Tibb’s Eve, celebrated on December 23rd in Newfoundland, marks the unofficial start of the Christmas season in the region. It is a time for people to gather with friends and family to celebrate and is often associated with the consumption of alcoholic beverages and plenty of eating, including Jiggs dinner of course.
The tradition is believed to have originated in the mid-20th century as an opportunity to enjoy drinks before Christmas, as the period of Advent was traditionally a sober, religious time when alcohol was not consumed until Christmas Day at the earliest.
The name “Tibb’s Eve” is a folk expression for a day that will never arrive, adding to the unique and festive nature of the celebration. The tradition has its roots in Newfoundland and Labrador but has been spread to other parts of Canada and even internationally by expatriate Newfoundlanders.
Traditional Foods & Drinks On Tibb’s Eve
Tibb’s Eve in Newfoundland is associated with the consumption of festive drinks and traditional foods. It is a time for people to gather with friends and celebrate with alcoholic beverages.
Some traditional foods associated with Tibb’s Eve include boiled cod fish with butter and pepper, a dish that holds cultural significance in the region.
Additionally, it is a time to enjoy finger foods and drinks before the official start of the holiday season with family on Christmas Eve
Happy Tibb’s Eve
Tibb’s Eve, a beloved tradition in Newfoundland and Labrador, is a time-honored celebration that marks the unofficial start of the Christmas season. Rooted in the region’s rich cultural heritage, this day is filled with drinking and merriment, bringing friends and neighbors together to share in the festive spirit.
As families and communities gather on December 23rd, they partake in the joyous tradition of toasting to the season and enjoying each other’s company. Whether it’s a glass of Screech rum, traditional foods like boiled cod fish, or simply the warmth of good company, Tibb’s Eve encapsulates the unique and heartwarming spirit of the holiday season in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Cheers to Tibb’s Eve, a time to embrace the joy of the season and the cherished company of loved ones.