Share

Santa Barbara Real Estate Blog

8 Housingwarming Traditions from Around the World

April 15, 2024

Back to Articles

Across the globe, diverse cultures commemorate the significant occasion of moving into a new home with a variety of fascinating housewarming traditions. These customs are deeply rooted in history and hold special significance for those embarking on this new chapter of life. Some are believed to usher in good fortune and blessings upon the home and its occupants, while others serve as symbols of hope and prosperity for the future. In essence, whether labeled as traditions, rituals, or superstitions, moving into a new home offers an opportunity for a joyous celebration and connection with loved ones. It's a time to share in the excitement of new beginnings and create lasting memories in the cherished space that will soon become home.

The rear facade of a dramatic ochre-colored Spanish Colonial-style estate home with a sparkling pool under a beautiful sky with fluffy clouds at dusk
Prancing Horse Estate


What unique housewarming ideas would you consider to mark your new life after moving into the majestic Prancing Horse Estate in Carpinteria pictured above? Here are some interesting ideas Santa Barbara homeowners can embrace:

  • Light A Candle on Your First Night
    In many religions, lighting a candle and saying a prayer on your first night in your new home will help ward off evil spirits. Lighting a candle is also a way to bless your new home by bringing light into the darkness. In medieval times, housewarming traditions included burning fire in the fireplace to symbolize strength and purity.

  • Bread & Salt
    This tradition is believed to have Russian Jewish origins. A gift of bread will ensure the new residents of the home won't go hungry. Bringing salt symbolizes a life full of flavor. Both represent significant symbols; salt was once so valuable it was used as currency. Giving salt to a new homeowner is an important sign of hospitality and wealth.
Bells hanging from the eaves of a temple or pagoda.
Photo by Lisheng Chang on Unsplash
  • Ring A Bell
    If you practice feng shui or another ritual of Far Eastern influence, you'll want to ring Tibetan Tingsha bells the night you move into your new home. This simple practice is believed to clear each room of stagnant or dying chi. Feng shui also suggests homeowners open windows, turn on fans, and let in the sunlight to welcome auspicious good feng shui chi.

  • Tie A Holy Thread
    Buddhists have many housewarming rituals believed to bring good luck and blessings. In Thai culture, one tradition includes tying "Sai Seen," holy thread or string, around the wrists of family members as well as the home's statue of Buddha.
A bowl with a tied bundle of sage and a cristal
Photo by Karly Jones on Unsplash
  • Burn Sage
    This practice is thought to be derived from Native American traditions. Burning dried sage, called sage smudging, is a traditional method of clearing out negative energy. Clean the energy of the entire house by directing sage smoke into the corners of every room. Burning sage will add protection from negativity.


No matter what your heritage is, if you’re looking to move in Montecito, Hope Ranch, or any of Santa Barbara's upscale communities, please call at (805) 886-9378 or email me at Cristal@montecito-estate.com. I’ll happily add your listing to my portfolio of fine homes in the area and find a new dream home for your family where you can celebrate with one of the above housewarming traditions. Or, create your own unique ritual!



Of Related Interest:




Back to Articles