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Showing posts with label Lifestyle. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Lifestyle. Show all posts

"Written In Light" Concert To Benefit Those Impacted by Ukraine War

 

On December 12, 2025, Spiders For Ukraine will host the “Written In Light” charity concert. The night features Scottish and Ukrainian music through caroling and a concert as well as homemade Ukrainian food and crafts. This is a family-friendly event.

The event will also feature a moving play called “Life in One Suitcase.” Written by Ukrainian director Oksana Saiapina, this play tells the story of those who are displaced and the decisions they have to make in the moment. The play connects to Christmas as the events around the first Christmas were not calm and peaceful, but there was a sense of promise and hope.

Other performances in the concert include the Harmony Kids Club in Edinburgh choir, DINA and Viter Kondriyanenko, and John Morran. The evening will also include a fair featuring Ukrainian artists and food from Ukrainian volunteers. There will be a workshop on how to make a motanka, which is a Ukrainian doll.

The goal of the concert is to provide a place where Scottish and Ukrainian cultures can meet and to create a safe space to talk about the war that is still happening.  It also offers a way for attendees to see Christmas from the Ukrainian perspective and connect to both Scottish and Ukrainian culture.

This is Spiders for Ukraine’s first Christmas charity concert, but they have hosted other events in the past. This past summer, the organization hosted a Scottish–Irish–Ukrainian concert in Newhaven, which was shortlisted for this year’s Creative Edinburgh Awards in the Collaboration of the Year category.

“We are delighted to continue building connections through art and supporting those who need our help,” says Inessa Rezanova.

“Written in Light” is organized by Spiders for Ukraine. The Edinburgh-based organization hosts a wide variety of charity concerts and other arts events to raise money to support those impacted by the war in Ukraine. The funds generated by the organization's previous events have provided evacuation vehicles, ambulances, and other humanitarian aid.

Spiders For Ukraine started in 2022 as a way for those who fled to Scotland to escape the war to help those who stayed behind. Spiders for Ukraine centers opened in Edinburgh first and then expanded to Dundee, Aberdeen, and other places. A huge part of the efforts to help out is to weave camouflage nets. These nets resemble spider webs and evoke images of spiders, which is how the organization got its name.

Another project that Spiders For Ukraine has been a part of is the exhibition called “Icons on the Ammunition Boxes.” These icons were painted on ammunition boxes by Ukrainian artists Oles Klymenko and Sonya Atlantova. This exhibition has traveled the world, and the Spiders for Ukraine was the first organization to bring it to Scotland.

If you go:

Date: December 12, 2025 from 6 to 9 pm

Location: Greyfriars Kirk, Edinburgh, EH1 2QQ

Tickets can be purchased in advance online or at the door. 


Related Articles:

-Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity To Host Sparkle and Shine Carol Concert: https://kiltedowl.blogspot.com/2025/11/echc-sparkle-and-shine-2025.html

-Celtic Events: December 2025: https://kiltedowl.blogspot.com/2025/11/celtic-events-december-2025.html

-New Hope's Dubliner on the Delaware To Close: https://kiltedowl.blogspot.com/2025/11/new-hopes-dubliner-on-delaware-to-close.html

ManxSPCA To Host Annual Christmas Fair

ManxSPCA to host annual Christmas Fair

On December 6, 2025, ManxSPCA is hosting its ManxSPCA Christmas Fair. This year’s event will take place at The Hub in Onchan on the Isle of Mann to increase foot traffic and accessibility for attendees. The event will feature local crafters, fun holiday treats, and gifts for anyone on your list.

This year, there is a wide variety of stalls and activities for the whole family to enjoy. This includes face painting, 3D printed figures, slime from Wild Child Events, festive incense and treats from Shea Candles, crochet gifts, Knits and Pieces, and local makers.

The event began as a small fundraiser to help the animals on the Isle of Mann and has since grown into one of their key events of the season. It combines holiday shopping and a festive atmosphere with the ability to raise funds for animals in need.

This family-friendly event is free to attend. Those who go will be able to support local artisans and crafters and get the chance to meet the makers themselves. Each stall supports local crafters and the ManxSPCA.

There is a £10 stall fee for those wishing to have a stall at the event. This money goes directly to supporting the ManxSPCA’s day-to-day operations. The move to a new location allows there to be more stalls than in previous years due to added space. Not only does the event raise funds for the ManxSPCA, but it also supports local businesses and crafters.

Aside from the stall fee, participants can help raise money for ManxSPCA by visiting charity stalls at the event, entering the raffle, or making a donation. Those who wish to get involved with ManxSPCA through volunteering, becoming members, sponsoring a pen, donating items, or fundraising. 

Related Articles:

-Rediscovery Centre To Host Sustainable Christmas Fair: https://kiltedowl.blogspot.com/2025/12/rediscovery-centre-to-host-sustainable.html

-Plan.com To Host Annual Santa's On A Bike Charity Ride: https://kiltedowl.blogspot.com/2025/11/plancom-to-host-annual-santas-on-bike.html

-Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity To Host Sparkle and Shine Carol Concert: https://kiltedowl.blogspot.com/2025/11/echc-sparkle-and-shine-2025.html

Plan.com To Host Annual Santa's On A Bike Charity Ride

 

On December 6, 2025, telecommunications company Plan.com is hosting Santa’s On a Bike, a festive fundraiser benefiting Rebecca’s House Children’s Hospice. This charity bike ride involves people dressing up as Santa and riding their bikes through the streets.

The event kicks off at 9 a.m. with tea and coffee before the ride begins at 10. The riders will journey through the streets before finishing at Rebecca’s House Children’s Hospice. At the end of the event, there will be food and other festivities to celebrate the bike ride.

While registration is free, riders are encouraged to donate to the ride’s JustGivingpage to help the Hospice. The biggest way the event raises money is through a raffle. The prizes this year are a trip to Vegas, a trip to Iceland, and more. The raffle tickets can be bought on the day of or online. The raffle will be drawn on the day of the event. There is also merchandise available for sale, with the proceeds of the sales benefiting the hospice.

The Santa’s On A Bike event began in 2018. Since then, it has raised over £295,000 for Rebecca’s House Children’s Hospice. The idea came from someone who saw it done in the UK, so they thought it could be done to raise money in this way.

“The support we receive from riders, spectators, donors, sponsors, and the Constabulary means the world to us, and we can’t wait to bring everyone together again to spread festive cheer for a fantastic cause,” said Nicola Patterson, the event organizer and Chief People Officer at plan.com, in a press release.

Rebecca’s House Children’s Hospice is a part of Hospice Isle of Man, which was formed in 1983. Since then, the hospice has supported children who have life-limiting, life-threatening illnesses with respite, palliative, and end-of-life care.

If you go:

Date: December 6, 2025; 9 am

Location: No. 5 Victoria Street, Douglas, Isle of Man


Related Articles: 

-Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity To Host Sparkle and Shine Carol Concert: https://kiltedowl.blogspot.com/2025/11/echc-sparkle-and-shine-2025.html

-Celtic Events: December 2025: https://kiltedowl.blogspot.com/2025/11/celtic-events-december-2025.html

-Celtic Events: October 2025: https://kiltedowl.blogspot.com/2025/09/celtic-events-october-2025.html

Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity To Host Sparkle and Shine Carol Concert

Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity To Host Sparkle and Shine Carol Concert

On December 4, 2025, Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity is hosting a Sparkle and Shine Carol Concert. The concert will take place at The Dean Church in Edinburgh. The doors open at 6 pm with the concert beginning at 6:45 pm.

The event will feature ESMS Junior School Choir and the Monktonhall Brass Band. The musicians will perform beloved Christmas carols to get audience members in the holiday spirit. Funds raised from the concert will benefit kids who are facing illness and hospital stays this holiday season.

Aside from the concerts, audience members will receive a free glass of wine, juice, and mince pie. There are raffles to participate in, as well as festive stalls to enjoy. Santa will also be making a special appearance.

To help audience members fully embrace the sparkle of the evening, there will be glitter tattoos. Audience members are invited to stay after the concert for refreshments and to peruse the festive stalls. The event officially closes at 8:30 that evening.

Tickets for the concert can be purchased in advance online. Children under 5 can attend the concert for free. There are individual tickets as well as a package for families who are attending together.

The Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity began in 1980 as The Friends of the Sick Kids, with a celebration in the parking lot of the hospital to help raise money for a new scanner. Since then, the organization has helped raise money for children facing various illnesses. In 1991, Kurt Cobain and Dave Grohl of Nirvana performed a concert to raise money for the organization!

If you go

Date: December 4, 2025; 6pm-8.30pm

Location: The Dean Church; 67 Dean Path, Edinburgh, EH4 3AT

Tickets: https://sparkle-and-shine.raiselysite.com/#ticketform

Related Articles: 

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-Cailíní Lua Release Single About Irish Revolutionary Tomás Malone: https://kiltedowl.blogspot.com/2025/10/cailini-lua-release-brave-malone.html

Celtic Events: December 2025


From ceilis to Hogmanay celebrations and everything in between, there is something for everyone this month, whether you want to embrace your own Celtic roots or learn more about Celtic culture. For more events, check out the events page. If you know of any upcoming events, either in November or otherwise, please reach out!

Australia

Daylesford Highland Gathering
December 7, 2025
Victoria Park and Vincent St., Daylesford
https://www.daylesfordhighland.com/

The Daylesford Highland Gathering has something for everyone, whether you are embracing your Scottish roots or are just interested in the culture. The event features music, dancing, food, and even swordsmanship!


St. Andrew's Day Ceilidh
December 13, 2025
Mackay, QLD
https://www.facebook.com/events/1997312957774372

St. Andrew is the patron saint of Scotland, and he is celebrated worldwide. Though this event takes place after November 30, it still celebrates the spirit of Scottish culture. The event features music, dancing, and a buffet.


Hogmanay Hootenanny 2025
December 31, 2025
Trevallyn, Tasmania
https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1345417

Hogmanay is the Scottish New Year’s celebration. This event captures the spirit of Scotland through bagpipes, a Ceilidh, and food. There will even by live music by the Stovies and other special guests.


Brittany

Mise en lumière
December 6, 2025
Ploudalmézeau Town Hall Square
https://www.ploudalmezeau.fr/sortir-et-bouger/lagenda/mise-en-lumiere/

This event features of the lighting of the Christmas tree in the town square. It will have music, dancing, and food for purchase. The highlight of this event is the arrival of Santa Claus. It is an event for the whole family to enjoy!

 

Trans Musicales
December 3-7, 2025
35000 Rennes
https://www.lestrans.com/

This music festival features a wide range of musicians across several performance stages. Visitors will be able to find something they enjoy. Guests should be aware that the event is cashless. More information on this can be found on the festival’s website.

 

No Border Music Festival
December 4-14, 2025
Divers lieux, Divers lieux, 29200 Brest
https://www.festivalnoborder.com/-Le-festival-.html

The No Border Music Festival seeks to break down barriers and promote local musicians. It features music, dance, theatre, debates, and more. The goal of the festival is to expand participants’ horizons.

 

Winter Night in Landerneau
December 5, 2025-January 4, 2026
29800 Landerneau
https://www.tourisme-landerneau-daoulas.fr/agenda-animations-evenements/evenements-temps-forts/nuit-dhiver-landerneau/

During this event, the entire city is lit up every day. The event features a sight and sound show, artisans and crafters, and more. It is the perfect holiday season event for the whole family to enjoy together.

 

Corrida de Noël
December 21, 2025
29810 Plouarzel
https://www.plouarzel.fr/la-corrida.html

This event features a number of races for the family to participate in. There are races for kids and adults alike. Prizes are awarded to the team with the most racers across the finish line. The event will end with fireworks after the races.

 

New Year's Eve Dance Party
December 31, 2025
Salle polyvalente du bourg, 29810 Plouarze
https://www.swingpennarbed.fr/page/1181835-presentation

This annual event features music, dancing, and food. There is a full menu of food that can be seen on the event’s website. Music will be provided by  Swing Penn Ar Bed and the food will be provided by Traiteur Garcia in Saint Renan.


Canada

Celtic Xmas in the Country ft Joel Lee 
December 6, 2025; 1PM
Wellington Hall, 3922 Corunna Avenue, Nanaimo, BC
https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/acclaim-celtic-dancers-presents-celtic-xmas-in-the-country-ft-joel-lee-tickets-1964302961034

This event is a fresh take on Celtic culture with country musician Joel Lee. It will also feature Acclaim Celtic Dancers and other special guests. Tickets can be purchased in advance at the link above.

 

Ireland

Dublin Art Book Fair 2025 
December 4-13, 2025
Temple Bar Gallery + Studios, 5-9 Temple Bar, Dublin 2, D02 AC84, Ireland
https://www.templebargallery.com/exhibitions/dublin-art-book-fair-2025

This annual event is Ireland’s leading art book fair. It features a variety of art books, including limited edition books. The event focuses on small publishers, both from Ireland and from around the world.

 

Stillgarden Christmas Market 2025
Saturday, 6 December 2025
D08 EWK2, Inchicore, Dublin 8, Co. Dublin, D08 EWK2, Ireland
https://stillgardendistillery.com/stillgarden-xmas-market

This Christmas market features artisans who put sustainability at the heart of what they do. From repurposed metal jewelry to natural skincare and more, there are plenty of things to check out. There will be a café open for food and beverage purchases.

 

Winterval Truck & Tractor Parade
December 7, 2025
Waterford City, Co. Waterford
https://winterval.ie/event/tractor-parade

This festive parade features trucks and tractors decked out in twinkling lights and other decorations. While the event is free, the organizers are collecting monetary donations for Tinteán Housing, a charity helping those facing homelessness.

 

The Santa Express Mullingar
December 13 - 14, 2025
Mullingar, Co. Westmeath
https://9thwestmeathscouts.com/santa-express-2025

This festive experience features a one-hour ride through the Westmeath countryside on a holiday train. The magic begins on the train platform, where participants are greeted by characters like the Grinch and Olaf. Refreshments are available.

 

A Night for Palestine with Amble & Special Guests
December 19, 2025
Killarney, Co. Kerry
https://gleneaglearena.ie/gigs/a-night-for-palestine-with-amble-special-guests

This concert will feature beloved Irish bands such as Beoga, Clare Sands, and Lumiere. All proceeds from the evening will go to ACLAÍ Palestine and will also provide food parcels for displaced families in Gaza.

 

New Year's Festival
December 30, 2025-January 1, 2026
Dublin, Ireland
https://nyfdublin.ie/

This event is Ireland’s biggest New Year’s event. It features concerts, music trails, fireworks, and more. Some concerts and events do not require a ticket and will say so on the schedule, but other events are ticketed.  

 

Isle of Mann

Santa's On A Bike
December 6, 2025
Plan.com HQ, Victoria Street, Douglas
https://www.visitisleofman.com/whats-on/santas-on-a-bike-p1328931

This annual event is the perfect way to kick off the holiday season and raise money for charity. The bike ride invites participants to dress up, decorate their bikes, and ride the bike route to raise money for Rebecca’s House Children’s Hospice.

 

ManxSPCA Christmas Fair
December 6, 2025
The Hub, Onchan Community Centre, Onchan, Onchan, IM3 1AP
https://www.visitisleofman.com/whats-on/manxspca-christmas-fair-p1773721

Like other Christmas craft fairs and markets, this one has local artisans selling unique gifts. However, with the ManxSPCA Christmas Fair, each stall is supporting the ManxSPCA to help animals in need.

 

New Zealand

Waipu Highland Games 
December 31, 2025
Waipu Celtic Barn, 39 The Centre, Waipu, Waipu 0510
https://www.waipuhighlandgames.co.nz/

This annual festival is a great way to end the year on a fun note. They offer competitions, music, dancing, and other activities for the whole family to enjoy. Tickets are available the day of the event, but it is recommended that visitors buy their tickets in advance online.

 

Scotland

Sparkle and Shine Carol Concert
December 4, 2025
Dean Parish Church,  65--67 Dean Path, Edinburgh, EH4 3AT
https://sparkle-and-shine.raiselysite.com/

This festive concert features the ESMS Junior School Choir and the Monktonhall Brass Band. Tickets can be purchased in advance and include a free glass of wine, juice, and mince pie. There will also be raffles and glitter tattoos.

 

Dundee Mountain Film Festival
December 5-7, 2025
University of Abertay, Kydd Building, Bell Street, Dundee, DD1 1HG
https://dmff.co.uk/

This film festival is considered to be Scotland’s pioneering mountain film festival. This year is its 40th year and it boasts international speakers, films, and exhibitions. The films and presenters are invited, and it is not a competitive festival.

 

“Written in Light” Christmas Charity Concert
December 12, 2025
Greyfriars Kirk, Greyfriars Place, Edinburgh, EH1 2QQ
https://www.spiders4ukraine.org.uk/events

The “Written In Light” charity concert is a concert that is raising money for those impacted by the war in Ukraine. The concert will feature Christmas carols by Scottish and Ukrainian singers, the moving play “Life in One Suitcase,” and more.

 

Festive Silent Disco
December 14, 2025
City Halls & Old Fruitmarket, Candleriggs, Glasgow, G1 1NQ
https://www.glasgowlife.org.uk/event/1/festive-silent-disco

The Festive Silent Disco takes place in an 1800s Victorian market and features three DJs on three channels, each playing different types of music. Participants will receive light-up headphones on entry and can switch between the stations as they wish.

 

Edinburgh International Magic Festival
December 17 - 30, 2025
Various venues: Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH1 1TE
https://magicfest.co.uk/

This year marks the 16th Edinburgh International Magic Festival. It features a wide array of magicians from around the world. Tickets are available at the event, but it is recommended that tickets be purchased online in case they sell out.

 

Stonehaven Fireballs Ceremony
December 31, 2025
Stonehaven High Street, Stonehaven, AB39 2XN
https://stonehavenfireballs.com/

The Stonehaven Fireballs Ceremony is a fiery way to celebrate the incoming year. Approximately 40 men and women parade the streets, swinging balls of fire around their heads. A fireworks display follows the parade.

 

United States

Pipes of Christmas
December 5-6, 2025
Church of the Covenant; 67 Newbury St, Boston
https://pipesofchristmas.com/

The Pipes of Christmas concert series debuted in 1999 and has since raised money to support the arts. The concerts happen in multiple cities on different days, so check the website to see if there is one near you!

 

Sherwood Celtic Yuletide Festival 
December 12 - 14, 2025
McDade, TX 
www.sherwoodforestfaire.com 

This Texas festival features live music, an archery tournament, and even Hawk Walk. There will also be a Highland Games that participants can sign up to compete in. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be there as well.


Related Articles:


 

Celtic Events: October 2025

From highland games to storytelling festivals, there is something for everyone this month, whether you want to embrace your own Celtic roots or learn more about Celtic culture. If you know of any upcoming events, either in October or otherwise, please reach out!

Australia

CelticFest Warwick

October 4-5, 2025

Warwick Showgrounds

https://www.celticfestqld.com.au/

Warwick is known as the Celtic capital of Queensland, Australia, making it a great location for a Celtic festival. The event is located in Queensland’s Country Downs and is run entirely by volunteers. It boasts a variety of festivities and vendors.

Armdale Highland Gathering and Perth Kilt Run

October 5, 2025

Minnawarra Park: Orchard Ave & Armadale Road, Armadale WA 6112

https://perthkiltrun.com.au/

The Highland Gathering is a free event and does not require a ticket to enter. Those who wish to participate in the Perth Kilt Run need to register through the website. The festival includes pipe bands, highland games, children’s activities, and more.

Canada

ReJigged Festival

October 23–25, 2025

Dartmouth, Nova Scotia

https://www.rejiggedfestival.com/

ReJigged seeks to bring everyday people face-to-face with musicians and dancers who came out of the Celtic diaspora. This year, the event is returning to Dartmouth. The event hosts various musicians and workshops for visitors to participate in.

Seaside Highland Games

October 11-12, 2025

Ventura Fairgrounds; 10 W. Harbor Blvd, Ventura, CA, 93001

https://www.seasidehighlandgames.org/

2025 marks Seaside Highland Games’ 21st year. The festival has highland games, a parade, music, food, and more. There is even a children’s area, so there is something for all ages to enjoy at the festival.

Ireland

Celtic World Forum

October 21-24, 2025

Fitzpatrick Castle; Killiney, Co.Dublin, Ireland

https://www.celticworldforum.com/

Ireland’s Celtic World Forum brings together lovers of Celtic music and culture. It was started by Éabha McMahon and her management team and has since created memories through various concerts and other experiences.

Scotland

The Enchanted Forest 

October 2-November 2, 2025

Pitlochry, Scotland

https://www.enchantedforest.org.uk/

Visitors of the Luminara at the Enchanted Forest go through an outdoor experience. This year’s event will help connect visitors, creating a historic moment using technology. The Forest is an immersive experience, bringing people together and using technology to reconnect people to nature.

The Royal National Mod

October 10-18, 2025

Fort William, Scotland

https://www.ancomunn.co.uk/nationalmod

The Royal National Mod was founded in Oban in 1891. It is Scotland’s premier Scottish Gaelic language event and brings people together. Besides language events, the Mod hosts other cultural experiences from music and dancing to sports.

Scottish International Storytelling Festival

October 22-November 1, 2025

Edinburgh

https://www.sisf.org.uk/

Storytelling is a crucial part of Celtic culture. This event brings together storytellers and unites them with visitors. Aside from storytelling, there is a variety of music and workshops, among other experiences. While most of the festival is in Edinburgh, there are events throughout Scotland.

Orkney Storytelling Festival

October 23rd-26th, 2025

Orkney, Scotland

https://orkneystorytellingfestival.co.uk/

This year’s Festival features Viking storytellers Jerker Fahlström and Hjörleifur Stefánsson, and talented local voices. It is hosting a variety of workshops and other experiences across the islands. There are even things for children to get involved with.

Samhuinn Fire Festival

October 31, 2025

Edinburgh, Scotland

https://beltane.org/about-samhuinn/

This event celebrates the end of summer and the coming of winter. It hails back to an ancient Celtic festival with a modern twist. The festival is returning to Calton Hill this year. There will be a giant bonfire that will be lit at the start of the rituals.

United States

Hamilton Irish Festival

October 3-4, 2025 (Rain Date: October 5, 2025)

2419 Kuser Road, Hamilton Square, NJ 08690

https://www.trentonaoh.com/music/

Hamilton’s Irish Festival hosts an Irish Pub Night on Friday night and an Irish music festival featuring vendors, bands, kids’ activities, and more on Saturday. The rain date is scheduled for Sunday. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to enjoy the music.

Celtic Heritage Day

October 4, 2025

104 Basin St, Bristol, PA 19007

https://www.facebook.com/events/1166899964880101/

This year’s event is the 27th Celtic Heritage Day in Bristol. It features music, exhibits, dance, food, crafts, and more. Celtic Heritage Day is the Celtic Heritage Foundation’s principal fundraiser, allowing the foundation to provide grants to schools and graduating seniors.

Aztec Highland Games and Celtic Festival

October 4th and 5th, 2025

Riverside Park: Aztec, NM

https://www.aztechighlandgames.com/

This festival features the Highland Games as well as music, dancers, and vendors. Guests are advised to bring their own chairs and blankets. There is some shade, but guests who are viewing the Highland Games are encouraged to bring an umbrella.

McMinnville Scottish Festival

October 4-5, 2025

Yamhill County Fairgrounds, McMinnville, TN

https://celticheritage.org/mac-scottish-festival/

McMinnville is known for its small-town charm. Their Scottish festival combines Highland Games, Music, and vendors for an experience guests will love. While there are benches and picnic tables, guests are encouraged to bring their own chairs and blankets.

Oklahoma Highland Gathering

October 10-12, 2025

Choctaw Creek Park, Oklahoma

https://unitedscotsok.com/festival

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Oklahoma Highland Gathering. Aside from the highland games, the festival features dancers, music, vendors, and more. The festival is a celebration of Scottish and Celtic culture.

South Jersey Celtic Festival

October 11-12, 2025

Burlington County Fairgrounds

https://sjceltic.org

This rain or shine event features music, dancers, food, and more. It takes place at the Burlington County Fairgrounds. This event is dog-friendly. Those who wish to participate as an organization, vendor, or athlete can find information on the festival’s website.

Scotland (CT) Highland Games

October 12, 2025

Brooklyn Fairgrounds - 15 Fairgrounds Rd., Brooklyn, CT 06234

http://scotlandgames.org

This Highland Games and festival will take place at the Brooklyn Fairgrounds. Tickets are available online and at the gate (some have reported issues ordering advance tickets). The event will include highland games, music, vendors, and more.

Stone Mountain Scottish Festival and Highland Games

October 17-19, 2025

Stone Mountain Park: 1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd; Stone Mountain, GA. 30083

https://www.smhg.org/

This year marks the 53rd Stone Mountain Festival and Highland Games. The event will feature a highland games, music, dancing, and vendors. Guests are encouraged to park in the outer lots and take a shuttle to the festival.

Scots on the Rocks Moab Celtic Festival

October 17-19, 2025

250 E Center St Moab, UT 84532

https://www.scotsontherocksmoab.org/

This event features Highland Games, music, dancing, vendors, and more. Tickets can be purchased online or at the front gate. There are discounts available for military, students, and seniors to take advantage of.

Tuscon Celtic Festival

October 24-26, 2025

Rillito Park Race Track, Tuscon, Arizona

https://tucsoncelticfestival.org/

This year marks the 39th Tuscon Celtic Festival. The festival celebrates various aspects of Celtic culture, from the Highland Games to music and more. There is even a children’s section, so there is something for everyone in your family to enjoy.

Charleston Tartan Ball

October 31, 2025

Daniel Island Club: 600 Island Park Drive, Charleston, SC

https://www.burnscharleston.org/2025-tartan-ball

This ball will feature a meal from options listed on the website. Music will be provided by Swingsation Orchestra and dancing is encouraged. The dress code for the event is Black-Tie, Mess Dress, or Highland Evening Dress. 


Related Articles:

-Celtic Events: September 2025: https://kiltedowl.blogspot.com/2025/08/celtic-events-september-2025.html

-Celtic Events January 2025: https://kiltedowl.blogspot.com/2024/12/celtic-events-january-2025.html

-Celtic Events: December 2024: https://kiltedowl.blogspot.com/2024/12/celtic-events-december-2024.html

My Day at the Rosenbach

 

Visitors' Room at the Rosenbach in Philadelphia, PA; Dracula, Ulysses
Visitors' Room at the Rosenbach in Philadelphia, PA

On August 29, 2025, I did a group tour of the Rosenbach Museum in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This museum is home to the book and antique collection of the Rosenbach brothers. The book collection includes several books by Celtic authors, including Bram Stoker, Robert Burns, and James Joyce, among others.

The Rosenbach brothers, who never married or had kids, lived in the house that was to become the museum. They left the book collection in their wills, wanting it to be turned into a museum that the public could have access to. Now, the Rosenbach Museum exists so people can see the collection, and visitors can come visit the museum and do research.

I went to the museum back in January for their Burns Night event, which was a lot of fun. Even before that event, I had been wanting to go check out the museum and see what was in their collection since I knew there were a lot of Celtic books.

At the Rosenbach, you can do self-guided tours, but I wanted to do a tour with a tour guide. I purchased my ticket in advance, though some people walked up the day of and were able to join the tour. It was a Thursday afternoon, so that likely made a difference. Luckily, I had off work and was able to go.

In my group, there were five other people. A few of the people were all the way from Laguna Beach! I did not get a chance to ask how they found out about the museum, but I know I was unaware of the museum until recently, and I have lived in the Philadelphia area my whole life! After the tour, I took a Lyft to the train station, and the driver, who also lived in the Philly area for some time, did not know about the museum.

I got to the museum a bit before the tour started, so I sat in the visitors’ room. They had a bunch of really cool books, including Dracula and Ulysses, which were also in the main collection. It is highly preferred that you lock your belongings in their lockers. They have keys that lock the lockers. The keys have the locker number on them, and you take the key with you.

The tour started by taking an elevator to the third floor, where we sat around a table and learn about the history of the museum. We then looked around the third floor, which had a room entirely dedicated to British and Irish authors. These books included Robert Burns, Oscar Wilde, and many more. I got chills looking at the collection of Burns’ poetry books. It was so impressive to see them and so many! They even had a death mask of James Joyce, which was cool to see.

James Joyce death mask at the Rosenbach in Philadelphia, PA
James Joyce death mask at the Rosenbach in Philadelphia, PA.

From there, we explored some of the other books and antiques on the other floors. While not every book has a Celtic connection, seeing the books, especially familiar ones, was pretty cool. The sheer number of books on display is astounding, and there are many more that are not out on display all the time.

The second floor had a special exhibit on the British and Irish books in the collection, and we were encouraged to visit these after the tour. They had individual pages from “Dracula” and other famous books with Celtic connections.

Overall, the museum was a great experience. I already have plans to go back with one of my friends, and I would love to check out some of their programs that they offer, beyond just the Burns’ Night event. I would recommend it to anyone who loves books, even beyond the Celtic connections. 

Related Articles

-My First Burns Night: https://kiltedowl.blogspot.com/2025/01/my-first-burns-night.html

-My First St. Patrick's Day Parade: https://kiltedowl.blogspot.com/2025/03/my-first-st-patricks-day-parade.html

-My Experiences with Philadelphia's Portal: https://kiltedowl.blogspot.com/2025/08/my-experiences-with-philadelphias-portal.html


Celtic Events: September 2025

 

Celtic Events Near Me

From Celtic festivals to Highland Games and everything in between, there are plenty of things to do around the world in January that will connect you to your Celtic roots! If you know of any upcoming events, either in September or otherwise, please reach out!

Canada

Canmore Highland Games
August 30-31, 2025
Centennial Park, Canmore, Canada
https://canmorehighlandgames.ca/

The mission of the Canmore Highland Games is to celebrate and honor Celtic culture through dance, music, and sports. The event features fun things for the whole family to enjoy, from the traditional highland games and a tug of war to Ceilidh dancing.

Celtic Island Music Festival 
September 13, 2025
Toronto Island, Canada
https://standrewstoronto.ca/sast_event/celtic-island-music-festival/

This music festival is hosted by the St. Patrick’s Parade Society of Toronto along with LIUNA and the St. Andrew’s Society. This event marks the anniversary of the Scottish coming to Canada (the ship, Hector, arrived in September of 1773 in Pictou, Nova Scotia) as well as the six-month countdown until St. Patrick’s Day. The festival includes music and dance performances.

Scotland

Wigtown Book Festival
September 26-October 5, 2025
Galloway and Dumfries, Scotland
https://www.wigtownbookfestival.com/

Wigtown is Scotland’s National Book Town and is home to 17 secondhand bookshops. The Book Festival was founded in 1999 is a well-loved book event and boasts more than 250 events, including music, theatre, and visual art, for all ages to enjoy. It takes place over the course of 10 days in south-west Scotland.

Shetland Wool Week
September 28-October 5, 2025
Shetland, Scotland
https://www.shetlandwoolweek.com/

Shetland Wool Week is a world-renowned celebration of Shetland’s native sheep, the islands’ textile industry, and the islands’ farming community. The event began 16 years ago and now boasts exhibitions, classes, and events that encompass all aspects of wool-related things. There are things to do this week on the entire group of Shetland islands.

USA

Edinboro Highland Games and Scottish Festival
September 4-6, 2025
Pennsylvania Western University, Edinboro, PA

The Edinboro Highland Games and Scottish Festival is held on the campus of Pennsylvania Western University in Edinboro, PA. The first festival was held in April of 1993 after Dr. Tim Thompson’s communication classes helped to plan it. Since then, the festival has carried on the tradition of celebrating Scottish culture with music, Highland Games, vendors, and more. 

Longs Peak Scottish Irish Highland Festival
September 5-7, 2025
1209 Manford Ave, Estes Park, CO
https://www.scotfest.com/

The Longs Peak Scottish Irish Festival is home to a variety of events, from athletic events to various performances. Typically, there is a parade in downtown Estes, but it was cancelled this year due to unforeseen circumstances. Estes Park is considered the Celtic Capital of North America, and this festival celebrates all things related to Celtic culture.

Michigan Irish Music Festival
September 11-14, 2025
Heritage Landing, Muskegon, MI
https://michiganirish.org/

The Michigan Irish Music Festival is Michigan’s largest event that celebrates Irish music and culture. It takes place at Muskegon Lake . Tickets can be purchased either online in advance or at the box office the day of. The festival uses Blarney Bucks as currency, which are only good at the current year’s festival. Unused Blarney Bucks can be used to tip volunteers, who will donate the unused Blarney Bucks to a food pantry. Festival and artist merchandise can be purchased with cash or credit cards, and other purchases depend on the vendor.

Samuel Beckett’s Celtic Festival
September 13, 2025, 12-6 PM
Samuel Beckett’s Irish Pub, Village at Shirlington; 2800 S. Randolph St, Suite 110

Samuel Beckett's Irish Pub hosts a Celtic festival each year. The festival will have Irish music and dance as well as vendors. Campbell Avenue will shut down so those attending can check out the vendors and enjoy the neighborhood. The event runs from 12 pm to 6 pm. Makers who are interested in being included in the makers' market should get in touch with the band. 

Great Basin Highland Games
September 13-14, 2025
Gandolfo Arena 2200 Loop Road, Sparks, Nevada 89434

The Great Basin Highland Games takes place at the Gandolfo Arena in Sparks, Nevada. Tickets can be purchased either in advance online or at the event. Aside from the Games, there are other activities, including vendors, clans, and even a chance for kids to practice with the Games equipment and feed highland cows.

New Hampshire Highland Games
September 19-21, 2025 
Loon Mountain Resort in Lincoln, NH
http://www.nhscot.org/

The New Hampshire Highland Games is happening from September 19th to the 21st this year. This year marks the 50th anniversary of this event that celebrates Scottish culture. They take place at the Loon Mountain Resort in Lincoln, New Hampshire. The event includes highland games, music, classes, and more for the family to enjoy.

Irish Fest of the Fox Cities
September 19-20, 2025
Appleton, Wisconsin
https://www.irishfestfoxcities.com/experience

This festival is a family-friendly event in downtown Appleton. There are performers, food and drink, vendors, and even a Celtic Mass at St. Mary Parish. The event has something for all ages, including a children’s area with a story time, magician, facepainting, and more. Tickets can be purchased online or at the gate. Children under 12 can attend for free!

Central KY Celtic Festival & Highland Games

September 20-21, 2025
Eminence, KY

This Celtic festival is a part of the Kentucky Renaissance Faire in Eminence, KY. There are vendors as well as live music, a children's Highland Games, and more. The event also hosts clans, so guests can find the clans that their families may have belonged to. It is a family-friendly event, with some activities geared towards children. 

Fresno Scottish Gathering and Games
September 20, 2025
Fresno, CA

This event takes place in Fresno, California. Tickets are on sale on the festival's website, and children 12 and under get in for free. The event celebrates all things Scottish. Guests are advised to enter through the entrance on California Avenue. 

Shamrocks & Shenanigans Weekend at the PA Renaissance Faire
September 20 & 21, 2025
Mount Hope Estate & Winery; 2775 Lebanon Road, Manheim, PA 17545
https://www.parenfaire.com/themedweekends.html

The PA Renaissance is having a Shamrocks and Shenanigans themed weekend, complete with a kilt competition, a highland games for the wee ones, and a costume contest for dogs. The schedule of events and performers will be posted on their website soon, so check back to see all of the weekend’s offerings.

Celtic Classic
September 26 - 28, 2025
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
https://celticfest.org/

The Celtic Classic is an annual Celtic festival that takes place from September 26 to 28 this year. The event features a poetry contest, vendors, musicians, and a highland games. Visitors are advised that the event is cashless and only card payments are accepted. If you have cash, it can be exchanged for a gift card at the booth in the Grand Pavillion.

Litchfield Hills Highland Games
September 28, 2025
Lime Rock Park
https://limerock.com/community-events/litchfield-hills-highland-games/

The Litchfield Hills Highland Games celebrate Scottish culture. While the main focus is the athletic events, guests have other opportunities to partake in other aspects of Celtic culture, from food to heritage events. There are things for the whole family to participate in, even young kids! 

Related Posts

-My First St. Patrick's Day Parade: https://kiltedowl.blogspot.com/2025/03/my-first-st-patricks-day-parade.html

-Celtic Events January 2025: https://kiltedowl.blogspot.com/2024/12/celtic-events-january-2025.html

-Celtic Events: December 2024: https://kiltedowl.blogspot.com/2024/12/celtic-events-december-2024.html

Celtic Subscription Boxes

 

Disclosure: While there are currently no Welsh boxes, there is one that is coming soon. There were no subscription boxes that came up in searches for boxes from Isle of Mann, Brittany, Galicia, and Cornwall. If you know of any, please let me know! The post does not have any prices listed, as prices may change.

Subscription boxes have become popular over the past several years. There is seemingly a subscription box for everything, from books to beauty products and beyond. Lovers of Celtic culture, particularly Ireland and Scotland, have boxes they can subscribe to for a monthly dose of a culture they love and feel connected to.

My Ireland Box

My Ireland Box is a monthly subscription box that has a theme for each month. It contains products from Ireland as well as a themed booklet that tells stories and information about Ireland. From snacks to jewelry and more, there are treasures from Ireland that you can enjoy or gift to a loved one.

Irish Treasure Box

The Irish Treasure Box is a subscription box that sends subscribers unique Irish items and food items each month. Each month has a particular theme that the items match. You can choose how many boxes you want to send, and the more months you subscribe to in advance, the more money you save.

Wee Box

The Wee Box subscription sends items from Scotland to subscribers. The service started in 2016, and the first box was sent in January of 2017. The box’s mission is to spread a piece of Scotland to those who love the country, no matter where they are in the world. Like other boxes, the Wee Box has themes for each month’s boxes.

Heartbox

Heartbox is a Scottish subscription box that sends items to subscribers each month. Each month’s box has a theme, with past themes including Outlander, Scottish seasons, and more. Subscribers can choose to pay monthly or prepay for up to a year. The more months that are prepaid in advance, the more they save in the long run.

The Scot Box

The Scot Box is a subscription box that offers boxes of Scottish food and snack items. There is an option to buy one box or to subscribe for longer. It was voted one of the top 10 travel subscription boxes by USA Today. The box offers 1, 2, or 3-month options, and the snacks vary from month to month so that subscribers can get a taste of different Scottish snacks.

Heather Box

The Heather Box is a subscription box that contains items from Scotland. The subscription service ships worldwide and accommodates those who have food allergies. Boxes can contain anything from jewelry and books to food items. Each box is personalized, and, according to the website, subscribers get a special gift for their birthday.

Sealed With Irish Love

The Sealed With Irish Love subscription box contains items such as accessories, food items, and more from Ireland. It is the subscription service that is connected to Máire McKeogh’s “Sealed With Irish Love” brand. Those who subscribe can choose to pay month to month or prepay for three, six, or twelve months.

Irish Taste Club

The Irish Taste Club is a monthly subscription box that sends Irish food items to subscribers each month. It was created to help small cottage producers grow and thrive in a market that makes it impossible for companies to succeed without huge budgets. The box ships to subscribers in Ireland and the United States. Subscribers can choose between paying monthly or prepaying for three, six, or twelve months. 

Related Articles:

-Gifts to Buy for Someone Who Loves Celtic Culture: https://kiltedowl.blogspot.com/2024/12/gifts-to-buys-for-someone-who-loves.html

-Book Review: “Burning Pages” by Paige Shelton: https://kiltedowl.blogspot.com/2025/07/book-review-burning-pages-paige-shelton.html

-Book Review: "An Irish Hostage" by Charles Todd: https://kiltedowl.blogspot.com/2025/06/book-review-irish-hostage-charles-todd.html

My Experiences with Philadelphia's Portal

The Portals are circular livestream screens that are located in various cities and countries around the world. Currently, there are Portals located in the United States, Ireland, Lithuania, Brazil, and Poland. In each city, the Portal rotates livestreams from the other countries. There are cameras attached to the Portals, so people viewing the streams can wave at each other.

I live near Philadelphia, so I get to see the Portal that is located in the United States. As someone who obviously loves Ireland and the other Celtic countries, this Portal is super cool. Being able to see Ireland in real-time is amazing, even though it is only through a screen. My hope is that when I get to Dublin, I will be able to look through and see Philly from the Dublin side.

The Philadelphia Portal was originally in New York City before being relocated to Philadelphia’s Love Park. It now stands in the courtyard of Philly’s City Hall. Dublin’s Portal is located on O’Connell Street near Dublin’s Spire.

I first saw the Philadelphia Portal on Saturday, January 25, 2025. Yes, ironically, this was Robert Burns’ birthday, and I had gone to the Rosenbach Museum’s Burns Night celebration. I took the train into the city and when I was waiting for my Lyft ride, I glanced towards Love Park and saw the Portal. I audibly gasped. I had wanted to see the Portal when it was in NYC, but it did not happen.

When I was done at the Burns Night celebration, I took another Lyft and walked to Love Park to see the Portal. I was mesmerized and in awe of it. By this time, it was late, even in Philadelphia. It was about 9 o’clock at night when I looked at it, meaning it was 2 am in Dublin. Surprisingly, there were a few people out at that time, even in the cold and dark of winter.

The second time I looked at the Portal was on August 9, 2025, after it was relocated to City Hall in Philadelphia. It was a particularly warm and sunny day, and I was there at about 12:30 pm, meaning it was 5:30 in the evening in Dublin. There were significantly more people in both Dublin and Philadelphia.

One thing I loved about seeing the Portal was being able to see people in different countries, including Ireland. It was neat to see so many different people, even within the same country. I loved waving at those looking back at us. For a moment, people across cultures and in countries around the world could share a moment and wave at each other, and smile at each other.

It was also cool to be able to talk to people in Philadelphia with me who were also looking at the Portal. I had known about the Portals, so being able to explain it to others who were unfamiliar was a neat experience. Being able to connect with others in a city that tends to be viewed as mean and dangerous was a lovely experience. 



Related Articles:

-My First Burns Night: https://kiltedowl.blogspot.com/2025/01/my-first-burns-night.html

-My First St. Patrick's Day Parade: https://kiltedowl.blogspot.com/2025/03/my-first-st-patricks-day-parade.html

-My First Experience as an International Spring Festival Ireland Table Host: https://kiltedowl.blogspot.com/2025/04/my-first-experience-as-international.html

 

In Honor of My Mom: Celtic Memories

Today, August 4, 2025, marks seven years since my mom passed. It is always a difficult and emotional day for me, but what helps me is honoring her life and celebrating all she did for me. One thing she always did was encourage my love and passion for my Irish heritage, and helped me learn as much as I could. She did this in more ways than I can possibly count.

Concerts

My mom was always my number one concert buddy. It was my favorite thing we did together. From seeing Celtic Crossroads and Paul Byrom more times than I can count to taking me to my first Celtic Thunder concert, she was a huge supporter of my love of Celtic music. She paid attention to the local park concert series and was the first to let me know if there was a Celtic band performing, and we always went when there was.

Celtic Festivals

I loved going to Celtic festivals in school. My mom always let me go to Celtic Classic in Bethlehem with my high school’s Celtic Club (more on that later). Once I graduated, we went to a couple of festivals together, including Green Lane’s Irish and Scottish Festival and the Celtic festival at Graeme Park. These memories are ones that I cherish so much, and I am so grateful for these times together.

Presents

My mom always gave the best presents. She knew exactly what I loved and what I wanted to get. One of my favorite things was a bumper sticker that said “I love Celtic music.” It is such a simple gift, but it was one that I cherish. It is still hanging on my wall today, even though she gave it to me several years ago. She has given me other gifts that I still have and love to this day and they remind me of her when I look at them.

High School Celtic Club

The summer before I started high school, I discovered Celtic Thunder on PBS and instantly fell in love. They inspired me to want to learn even more about my Celtic heritage. Luckily for me, my high school had a Celtic Cultural Club. We met once a month, and it helped me make amazing friends and learn so much. Mom made sure I was able to go to the meetings and events. I never missed an event or meeting. I was able to be the club’s president my senior year, and when I was making my speech as to why I should be president, the club’s faculty advisor interjected that I had never missed a meeting since I joined.

Food

I love Celtic food, and my mom made amazing shepherd’s pie. She always asked me what vegetables I wanted in the shepherd’s pie and would make it every so often. There used to be more Irish pubs near me, and she would take me once in a while because she knew how much I loved these places. These pubs are no longer around, sadly, but these memories are ones I will cherish forever. 

Related Articles:

-My First Experience as an International Spring Festival Ireland Table Host: https://kiltedowl.blogspot.com/2025/04/my-first-experience-as-international.html

-My First St. Patrick's Day Parade: https://kiltedowl.blogspot.com/2025/03/my-first-st-patricks-day-parade.html

-My First Burns Night: https://kiltedowl.blogspot.com/2025/01/my-first-burns-night.html

Ways to Learn the Irish Language

Since most people in Ireland speak English, it is not commonly known that Ireland has its own language. Irish, or Gaeilge, is becoming less and less spoken and is slowly dying. However, there has been a resurgence in the past several years to keep the language alive and spoken, both in Ireland and around the world. Due to British rule and the outlawing of the native irish language, only 3% of the Irish population can speak the Irish language as the mother tongue. There are places in Ireland, called the Gaeltacht, where Gaeilge is the primary language spoken. While it is a difficult language to learn, there are several tools that can help you learn.

Mango Languages

Mango Languages is a subscription language learning website that has Irish as an option. It ties in grammar, vocabulary, and culture notes to help learners grasp the Irish language. Each lesson builds on the last. The most helpful part is that it has “critical thinking” integrated into each lesson, where learners take something they just learned and apply it to something else they learned to create phrases they can use. This kind of learning helps to solidify what you learn as well as put phrases together based on other words you know. It is important to be able to do this, and learning the grammar and sentence structure is crucial for learning the language. While the site has a subscription option, check to see if your library offers it to you at no cost.

Colloquial Irish: The Complete Course for Beginners

“Colloquial Irish: The Complete Course for Beginners” by Roslyn Blyn-LaDrew, John Gillen, Tomás Ó hÍde, and Máire Ní Neachtain is a great book resource for learning the Irish language. The book has conversations, English to Irish and Irish to English word lists, cultural points, and more to help you learn the language. The publisher’s website has free downloadable audio content to expand on what is covered in the book. This helps you get a sense of how the language sounds.

Transparent Language

Transparent Language is another subscription-based language learning website. Like Mango, many libraries and other institutions offer it at no cost to patrons. It allows you to set a personal goal of time practiced each day. Each lesson has a place to practice speaking the language and transcribing the phrases you hear. This is unique from other online platforms, and it allows the material to sink in more.

Duolingo

Duolingo is one of the most popular language-learning websites and apps. While there is a paid option, it is known for its free option. Duolingo is excellent for learning vocabulary and certain phrases, but it does not teach grammar as thoroughly as other sites. It is a good resource to gamify your learning of the Irish language, but it should not be the only website you use. 

My First Experience as an International Spring Festival Ireland Table Host

On April 26, 2025, North Penn High School in Lansdale, Pennsylvania, hosted the 36th annual International Spring Festival. Each year, the festival brings together different cultures through food, music, performances, and country displays. It is one of the largest, if not THE largest, international festivals hosted by a high school on the East Coast.

For me, this year was special because I got to host Ireland’s table. I have been going to this festival since I was a kid, so being on the other side of the tables was a first. I wanted to host Ireland’s table because when I went to the festival last year, they did not have an Ireland table and I figured if I wanted it, I would do it myself.

Throughout the year, I thought about what I wanted to bring with me. A few years ago, I made a model of Poulnabrone for an online archaeology conference contest. I had forgotten about it but it was still in my basement. I remembered it the day before so I decided to take that. I made a canvas poster of fun facts about Ireland. One of my favorite Willow Tree Angels is the Irish step dancer, so I included that along with a small Irish flag. Also, I included the Hanna hat I got when I was in high school from an Irish shop at the beach.

Over the course of my life, I have collected several books about Ireland and Irish culture. The one that means the most to me is the book about traveling to Ireland that my best friend got me when we graduated from high school. She wrote a really sweet message inside. I decided to include this in my table. I also brought an Irish cookbook and a book on learning the Irish language.

In the week leading up to the event, I was admittedly nervous. I had received emails with information and I made sure to read them thoroughly so I did not miss anything. On Friday night, I gathered all of my items and packed them in a bag.

The morning of the festival, I work up and had breakfast (dino nuggets). I wore my tartan skirt that I wore for my Claire Fraser cosplay at New York Comic Con and a black t-shirt. I also wore my trinity knot necklace.

When I got to the school, I parked near the entrance I needed to go through to set up my table. I took my stuff in and went to the information table to be directed to my table. When I arrived, I got my stuff set up, which only took a few minutes. I had time to settle in and make sure things were to my liking. There was information on my table, so I read that. I also had a chance to meet my table neighbors: Italy to my left and the area Democrats to my right!

Finally, it was 10 am and time to start the event. The day’s performances started off with a local Irish dance school performance. I love watching Irish dancing, especially hard-shoe dancing. They did some songs from Riverdance and Lord of the Dance, but they also did other songs. My favorite? “Rocky Road to Dublin” by the High Kings!

Things began to pick up and get busier as time went on. As a part of the festival, the countries' tables are encouraged to participate in the passport program. Kids (and adults, too!) can pick up a passport paper. Each country has a designated trivia question that is listed on the passport. As the kids go around to the countries, they are asked trivia questions. Mine was “Who is the patron saint of Ireland?” with the answer being St. Patrick (though there are three patron saints of Ireland).

My brother did come relieve me so I could get lunch and take care of myself. The break was welcome as the room was loud with so much going on. For lunch, I had chicken lo mein and it was delicious!

Next year, if I end up doing it again (I want to!), I want to include more items in my display. I loved the items I did bring, but I do wish I had a few more things, and someone else made that comment as well. I want to see if I can have a different trivia question. Throughout the day, I wished I had taken a water bottle, so I want to remember to bring one with me next year.

Overall, it was such a fun day! I loved watching parents tell their kids that they have Irish heritage and watching the kids learn about Ireland. It was also cool to see kids with other kinds of heritage learn about cultures other than their own. The community of the tables around me caring for each other and meeting each other was incredible to witness. Congratulations to all involved and thanks to all who came out and participated in the festival!

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