The tradition of becoming an honorary Newfoundlander is a must for anyone visiting this rugged, beautiful island. If you’re wondering how this happens, the answer is simple: you must get “Screeched-In.”
Before my trip, I had no idea what this term meant. Most visitors don’t. I soon discovered that Anthony Bourdain got screeched in during his visit to Newfoundland, which made me even more eager to take part.
So if you’re curious about what being “Screeched-In” involves and how to do it, keep reading so you can take part in this classic Newfoundland experience.
What Does Screeched In Mean in Newfoundland?
Getting “Screeched-In” is a ceremony where visitors become honorary Newfoundlanders. The tradition involves a few key components:
- A Newfoundland Toast: You’ll repeat a few classic Newfoundland phrases.
- The Cod Kiss: You’ll be asked to kiss a codfish, an iconic part of the tradition.
- A Shot of Screech (Rum): A small shot of Newfoundland Screech rum is a must to cap-off the ceremony.
- The Certificate: When finished, you’ll be given a certificate deeming you an honorary Newfoundlander.
The ceremony is lighthearted but still feels meaningful. It’s designed to give you a taste of Newfoundland’s history, hospitality, and humor.
How Do You Get Screeched In?
Most visitors get screeched in at a a local pub or tavern led by someone who knows the tradition.
You’ll first stand in front of the host. Then, they’ll ask you to recite a tradition Newfoundland speech. There’s a short phrase you repeat line-by-line to officially complete the ceremony. The words can vary slightly depending on the pub or host, but it will always end with:
“Long may your big jib draw!”
This is essentially the Newfoundland way to say, “cheers!”.
You’ll then complete the ceremony with a sip of Screech rum and kissing on a codfish.
If you’re at a spot with plenty of onlookers and is someone who gets nervous, just have a couple drinks in your system beforehand. However, don’t worry, as it’s all fun and games and meant to put guests on the spot. People get Screeched-In every night throughout Newfoundland, especially in St. John’s. There’s a slim chance you and your group will be the only ones getting screeched in!
Where Can You Get Screeched in St. John’s?
Several tour companies in St. John’s offer bar crawls that include official Screeched-In ceremonies. A few pubs are well-known for screeching in guests every night of the week, too.
The best places to get screeched in in St. John’s include:
- Christian’s Pub
- Trapper John’s
- O’Reilly’s Irish Newfoundland Pub
- Spirit of Newfoundland
- Dildo Brewery
- Inn of Olde (Quidi Vidi)
The Inn of Olde is run by a woman named Linda and has to be the best place to get screeched in on the island of Newfoundland. I got screeched in with two friends here, and it was one of the most authentic experiences I’ve had while traveling. The pub is filled with history, incredibly intimate, and Linda was a memorable host. Two other patrons were there, and we all got screeched in together. Linda’s claim to fame is that she screeched in Jason Momoa!
George Street is home to the best nightlife in St. John’s, with a host of bars and pubs that Screech-In visitors every night. Christian’s Pub has the best reputation when it comes to screeching in guests. Trapper John’s and O’Reilly’s Irish Pub also perform Screech-in ceremonies.
The Spirit of Newfoundland room in downtown St. John’s screeches guests in every day at 3:00 p.m. You can typically bring kids with you if you’re visiting during a pub during the daytime.
I’d recommend having a nice dinner somewhere and then making your way to the Inn of Olde. It’s in a charming village just outside of downtown St. John’s called Quidi Vidi. Despite being less than 10 minutes away by car, this old fishing village feels remote and unspoiled. The Inn of Olde is just a couple blocks from the water in the village.
In-Summary: Getting Screeched In Newfoundland
Getting Screeched-In is a fun way to experience Newfoundland culture firsthand. You’ll take part in an important local ceremony, try some local rim, and officially become an honorary Newfoundlander. It’s simple, it’s memorable, and it’s one of those traditions you won’t want to miss, especially if you’re in St. John’s.
