The Interesting History of Housewarming Parties

Housewarming parties might look like a new concept to new Indian house owners but in reality, it’s been an age-old tradition in all cultures to celebrate this new step in someone’s life. All over the world, there are countless traditions and ceremonies that celebrate the inauguration of a new home. However, the term “Housewarming” in particular has a long history and you might find it interesting.

Housewarming’s History

The term “housewarming” originated in medieval Europe and has been in use for centuries. At that time, people didn’t have a central heating system in their homes and needed a fire to literally “warm” the house. Hence, they gave the name “housewarming” to the new home’s celebration ceremony.

In order to warm the house after its construction, people would call their neighbours and guests and light the fireplace. In many places, guests would bring wood for housewarming for their new neighbours. In the same ceremony, individuals will bring presents for the new house owners and there would be a feast and merry-making ambience in the new home. 

In France, there was a tradition to celebrate housewarming within 180 days of moving into your new home. In this ritual, a metal rod made of notches and hooks was set up where owners would hand a pot and cook food. This tool used to be height-adjustable so that the speed of cooking could be easily managed. 

In the middle ages, it became a custom to invite mates who helped in building the house and to eat food together in a cauldron attached to the hook. Also, the warmth and friendship of new homeowners with their new neighbours were also said to warn off all evil spirits from the home. 

In terms of gifts, most of the guests brought wine as a typical gift for a housewarming. However, there were some conventional gifts such as bread and salt to be given to the house owners. The bread symbolises that the home will remain without hunger and salt would ensure that there will never be a lack of spices or entertainment in the house. Likewise, a gift of candles will assure that the home will always be filled with light and joy.

Similarly, in Italy people used to give a broom, a candle, rice and olive oil to their new neighbours. Germans had a belief that giving a rooster to the new homeowners will keep intruders away from the home.

Housewarming Today

With time, housewarming traditions have evolved and have taken different names in different cultures. For example, it is called “Griha Pravesh” in India, “Food Pounder” in South America and “Keun Ban Mai” in Thailand.

Correspondingly, the celebration methods and costumes have evolved and have paved way for the modern housewarming.

For more such interesting information on celebrations, festivals, their history and significance, visit www.pepshep.com.