Clavie meaning

The clavie is a traditional Scottish ritual involving a burning barrel filled with tar and wood, performed annually in Burghead to mark the New Year.


Clavie definitions

Word backwards eivalc
Part of speech Noun
Syllabic division cla-vie
Plural The plural of the word "clavie" is "clavies."
Total letters 6
Vogais (3) a,i,e
Consonants (3) c,l,v

Clavie: A Scottish Tradition

What is Clavie?

Clavie is a unique Scottish tradition that takes place in the small fishing village of Burghead in Moray, Scotland. The tradition involves setting a fiery beacon atop a large wooden barrel called the clavie, and then carrying it through the streets of the village in a ceremonial procession.

Origins of Clavie

The origins of clavie are believed to date back to the Picts, an ancient Celtic people who once inhabited the area. The tradition is thought to have originated as a pagan ritual to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck for the coming year.

How Clavie is Celebrated

On the night of January 11th, also known as Old New Year's Eve, the clavie is lit using a flaming peat ember from a nearby house. The barrel is hoisted onto the shoulders of local men, who then carry it through the streets of Burghead while the flames burn brightly.

Symbolism of Clavie

The burning clavie is believed to bring good fortune and prosperity to the village and its residents for the coming year. The fiery beacon is also said to represent the light of community spirit shining brightly in the darkness.

Modern-Day Clavie

Today, the clavie ceremony continues to be an important tradition in Burghead, drawing visitors from near and far to witness the spectacle. The event has been recognized as an important part of Scotland's cultural heritage and is protected as a festival of national significance.

Whether you're a local resident or a curious traveler, witnessing the ancient tradition of clavie is sure to be a memorable experience that embodies the rich history and culture of Scotland.


Clavie Examples

  1. The clavie is a traditional Scottish fire festival.
  2. Participants carry the clavie around the village to bring good luck for the coming year.
  3. The clavie is made from a half barrel filled with tar and wood shavings.
  4. The clavie ceremony dates back to ancient Pagan rituals.
  5. During the clavie burning, spectators gather to witness the fiery spectacle.
  6. The clavie is lit using embers from a bonfire and carried through the streets.
  7. The clavie procession culminates in the burning of the clavie on a hilltop.
  8. The clavie tradition takes place annually on January 11th in Burghead, Scotland.
  9. Local residents participate in the clavie ceremony to celebrate their heritage.
  10. The clavie festival is a unique cultural event that draws visitors from around the world.


Most accessed

Search the alphabet

  • #
  • Aa
  • Bb
  • Cc
  • Dd
  • Ee
  • Ff
  • Gg
  • Hh
  • Ii
  • Jj
  • Kk
  • Ll
  • Mm
  • Nn
  • Oo
  • Pp
  • Qq
  • Rr
  • Ss
  • Tt
  • Uu
  • Vv
  • Ww
  • Xx
  • Yy
  • Zz
  • Updated 02/07/2024 - 18:22:04