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Rediscovery Centre To Host Sustainable Christmas Fair

 

On December 6, 2025, the Rediscovery Centre is hosting its annual Sustainable Christmas Fair. Like other Christmas markets, the event will feature artisan creations and festive treats to get attendees in the holiday spirit, but the market focuses on businesses with sustainability as a staple of their creations. The event is free to attend.

What sets this event apart is its focus on sustainability. The craftspeople and social enterprises who are operating stalls at the event all have sustainability at the heart of their business. This includes upcycled textiles, repurposed metal, and more.

The first Sustainable Christmas Fair was held in 2019 and has been held every year since. Stallholders are selected from the Rediscovery Centre’s EcoStore suppliers as well as an open call to local makers.

“We look for small businesses whose products have a strong sustainability focus,” said Robyn Myna of the Rediscovery Centre, “this helps us keep the fair aligned with the Rediscovery Centre’s ethos and offer visitors genuinely sustainable options.

The fair is a great way to bring the community together to learn about sustainability while allowing people to get some of their holiday shopping completed. The purchases support small businesses that focus on sustainability

“This fair is a chance to bring people together and shine a light on the brilliant small businesses, social enterprises, and makers in our community,” said Myna. “It creates a space where people can discover genuinely sustainable gifts while also supporting the individuals behind them.”

The Rediscovery Centre’s Boiler House Café will be open on the day of the event. The café focuses on sustainability by eliminating plastic waste in a variety of ways and composting food waste on-site. They serve Fairtrade tea and coffee as well as homemade baked goods and other dishes.

The Rediscovery Centre is Ireland’s National Centre for the Circular Economy. They host social enterprises, workshops, and exhibitions to show how to reduce waste through creativity, sustainability, and community.

Stall holders

If you go:

Date: December 6th, 2025; 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Location: The Rediscovery Centre, The Boilerhouse, Main Street, D09 HK58 Ballymun



Related Articles:

-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

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


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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

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

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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

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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: November 2025: https://kiltedowl.blogspot.com/2025/10/celtic-events-november-2025.html

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

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


 

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Beyond the Song: "Loch Lomond"

Loch Lomond by Thomas Nugent, CC BY-SA 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

“Loch Lomond” is one of the most popular Celtic songs around. Ireland has its own lyrics to the song with “Red is the Rose,” but Scotland’s “Loch Lomond” has historical meaning behind it, dating back to Jacobite times.

Back in the Battle of Culloden in 1746, an hour-long battle which took place during the Jacobite Risings, leaders were either killed on the battlefield or taken to London for show trials. During the “trials,” they were found guilty and executed in a gruesome way.

The heads of those executed were put on pikes and paraded from London to Edinburgh by way of the highway, which is referred to in the song as the “high road.” This parade was meant to be a warning to those who might be planning to rebel.

One theory is that the song is written from the perspective of a woman who was in love with one of the men who was executed. The families of the men executed, including their wives and girlfriends, would go to London to watch their loved ones being tried and executed. They would travel on the “low roads,” which were the roads and paths they were able to take on their way to London. They would take the same way home, getting home before the heads and corpses of their loved ones.

Another theory says that the song is a conversation between two captured soldiers. Though the captured prisoners were given a trial, it was mostly for show. However, the fate of the prisoners, particularly who would live and who would be executed, was left to chance and lots. In the song, the prisoners are discussing the bleakness of the situation.

There are many theories about the origins of “Loch Lomond.” Some claim that the song was heard or composed by Lady John Scott in the 1840s. Others, including the Clancy family, believe that the song is derived from the Irish version “Red is the Rose,” though some say the Irish lyrics seem more recent.

 The song remains popular today, though most have no clue about the dark history behind the song and its connection to the Jacobite Rising and Culloden. 

Related Articles:

-Beyond the Song: "Mo Ghile Mear": https://kiltedowl.blogspot.com/2025/09/beyond-song-mo-ghile-mear.html.html

-Beyond the Song: "The Minstrel Boy": https://kiltedowl.blogspot.com/2025/08/beyond-song-minstrel-boy.html

-Beyond the Song: “Yma o Hyd”: https://kiltedowl.blogspot.com/2025/07/beyond-song-yma-o-hyd.html

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