There is something so romantic about Christmas… dreamy, snowy days segue into nights spent gazing at the twinkling lights on the holiday tree…

Make the most of the romantic holiday spirit by giving the woman you love the gift of Irish jewelry.

The symbols of the Irish people are often ancient in origin, and their intricate designs illustrate themes of love, loyalty, and faith. Learning about the myths, legends, and history of this fascinating culture can be an exciting journey into the past.

If you want to show her how much you care this holiday season, give her a special piece of handcrafted jewelry made in Ireland! Every woman loves to open a little box with something delicate and beautiful inside! It will also be a great opportunity to honor her Irish heritage (or your own!).

We’ve put together some romantic gift ideas for this Christmas, along with information about the symbols you’ll find on the versatile and feminine pieces featured below.

Learning about the meanings of Trinity Knots, Claddagh crowned hearts, and other Irish symbols will add depth and a sense of “story” to your gift-giving experience…

From luxe rubies to inexpensive sterling silver designs, there is truly something for everyone’s taste and budget.

Budget Picks -

If you don’t have a lot to spend, you can still dazzle her on Christmas morning with these affordable silver Celtic jewelry pieces: they feature the same attention to detail and ornate beauty as our yellow and white gold designs.

The genuine cultured pearl featured on this lovely, Trinity Knot silver ring echoes the shape and shimmer of the ornaments on your Christmas tree.

The creamy pearl is flanked by Celtic interlace that symbolizes the Holy Trinity. What could be more appropriate for the holidays?

Each segment of the Trinity Knot represents the Father, the Son, and The Holy Spirit.

Silver Ribbon of Life earrings are a feminine, classic choice for her. Tiny, sparkling diamonds decorate the smooth, curving lines of the unique ribbon design.

The Trinity Knot set into each ribbon of life is carefully crafted by Irish artisans who honor the ancient traditions.

These affordable earrings will light up her face, and look beautiful with casual or formal clothes.

Mid-Range

Spending a little more will open up your choices…you can add a bit of color with gemstones, and enjoy the beauty of 14k gold. Here are some ideal picks for her:

Are you shopping for the mother of your child? She’ll never take off this stunning 14k gold Mother and Child pendant! A touching, stylized mother and child motif is accented by a pretty gold Trinity Knot.

This pendant is unique and unforgettable. Its border of tiny diamonds is like the frame on a piece of exquisite artwork. This showpiece will be something she’s proud to wear…forever.

The beauty of 14k yellow gold is enhanced by emeralds and diamonds…this modern take on the classic Claddagh Ring gives heirloom quality at a reasonable price.

In Ireland, the Claddagh ring is a symbol of love everlasting, and it is given as a token of affection. Spoil her with a Claddagh Ring this Christmas morning!

High-End

If you want something truly splendid for her, choose from our selection of fine jewelry. Watch her glow as she takes in the beauty of genuine rubies and diamonds…

This ring is one of our most special pieces – crafted by hand, it is a stunning celebration of your love for one another.

A rich, red ruby is perfect for Christmas, and its beauty is embellished by the addition of two icy white diamonds. On each side, white-gold Trinity Knots add richness and dimension.

If you’re planning to propose this holiday season, this Celtic ring could be the one you’ve been looking for.

Gorgeous earrings highlight the face, bringing light to the eyes…these Celtic Trinity Knot earrings are truly sensational.

A circle of diamonds enhances the two-tone 14k gold design, and the mysterious appeal of the Trinity Knot is as enduring as time…

As you can see, our selection of Irish jewelry really has it all…offer her the very best this Christmas with these expertly crafted designs.

The holiday season is approaching, and many people are beginning to think about finding the perfect gifts for their friends and loved ones.

If you are of Irish or Celtic heritage, or know someone who is, you may be interested in having a look at some great Celtic jewelry ideas for this Christmas season.

We’ve put together a quick guide to the Top Five Celtic Jewelry Ideas for the season. You’ll find a variety of choices for everyone on your list.

If you’re worried about your holiday budget, you’ll be pleased to note that there are some very affordable choices on our list.

From silver jewelry that is inexpensive, but still features all the intricacy and attention to detail of 14k designs, to gemstone and pearl luxury…there is truly something for everyone…

5. These earrings are simple, but so timeless and elegant. Perfect for any woman, these gold and emerald Celtic stud earrings will become everyday favorites.

The classic Trinity Knot, symbolizing The Father, The Son, and The Holy Spirit, is enhanced by a shimmering emerald at its center.

4. The Celtic spiral is a symbol of life-force. Each ring represents the endless cycle of birth, death, and spiritual rebirth.

If someone on your list owns a Pandora’s Box charm bracelet, why not give them this stunning and affordable Celtic spiral charm?

If you’re looking for a bigger present, consider choosing the Tara’s Diary charm bracelet, with a selection of beautiful Irish charms.

3. These gorgeous amethyst Celtic earrings also feature the mystical allure of the Trinity Knot. Teardrop-shaped, genuine amethysts will dazzle her on Christmas morning.

These dramatic drop earrings add a touch of glamor to any outfit. She’ll love celebrating her Celtic heritage with these fabulous gemstone and 14k gold earrings!

2. Get the same stunning gemstone glamor with the Claddagh Birthstone Ring, which features a silver band that makes it so affordable.

Choose just the right stone for a loved one – they’ll enjoy the personal touch!

If you know a teen or young woman who loves jewelry, this reasonably-priced gift will make her very happy. The Claddagh Ring is given as a token of affection.

1. Make this holiday season a milestone in your life by asking for her hand in marriage…with a stunning Celtic diamond engagement ring.

This stellar design offers a chic square cut that really displays the icy white solitaire stone to full advantage.

Flanking the diamond, delicate, white gold Trinity Love Knots offer richness and dimension to the piece. A two-tone, 14k gold design makes this ring the perfect, versatile choice…for a lifetime.

For more amazing gift ideas, at any price point, visit our Celtic Jewelry Store.

The beauty of giving Celtic jewelry this holiday season lies in its authenticity. Each piece is handcrafted by master artisans, in Ireland itself. By choosing genuine, quality pieces crafted with painstaking care, you’ll be offering jewelry with something extra.

For thousands of years, the Irish have been renowned for their mastery in working with precious metals. Today, the tradition is honored by a new generation of craftspeople.

Connect with the past and celebrate the present this Christmas…with gifts of Celtic jewelry.

An Irish or Celtic festival is, quite simply, a meeting ground for people of Celtic heritage, and anyone else interested in experiencing the joys of Irish & Celtic music, dance and culture.

Now, more than ever, these festivals are gaining popularity in North America, where they’ve become a vibrant, stimulating way to enjoy a weekend, near home or far away.

Things To Do

The main components of most Irish and Celtic festivals are musical entertainment and other performances. Usually, there are multiple stages where performers can display their proficiency in dance or music, allowing the festival-goer to pick and choose what they want to see.

Music and Dance Are Highlights

Some festivals bring the best Celtic musicians and dancers from the British Isles, as well as featuring other Celtic musicians from around the globe. A mixture of genres makes it a fantastic melting pot that everyone can enjoy.

Crafts and Artwork Will Be Featured

Aside from the centerpieces of music and dance, there are other things to enjoy at any Irish or Celtic festival.

Often, there will be a special venue for artisans to show off and sell their wares, which will include Celtic handcrafts, paintings, clothing, etc. These craft fairs are a great way to get to know people while sampling a taste of Irish and Celtic folkloric art and design.

To get into the spirit of things, consider choosing a traditional piece of Celtic or Irish jewelry to wear to an event. A classic Claddagh ring with a diamond center will become a treasured heirloom, or consider a chic charm bracelet filled with centuries of Celtic symbolism.

The Tara’s Diary Charm Bracelet is a great way to honor your heritage, and it’ll be an excellent conversation piece to wear to a festival. You can enjoy adding charms that feature the symbols and meanings of Celtic culture. Here is a look at the
Celtic bracelet:

As you can see, colorful enamels and silver engraving make the charms stand out.

Celtic spirals, Claddagh symbols, and Celtic crosses evoke the spirit of the Celtic people in a modern and charming way.

Food and Drink From Ireland Are There To Enjoy

Food and drink are featured at every festival, where an abundance of pub nights and picnics are enjoyed by attendees. For families, there are often pancake breakfasts and other wholesome group dinners, etc.

For those of drinking age, the pubs will be a hot spot for conversation, more music, and fine pub fare. Often, a pub will sponsor the event, and become a hub for festival-goers during the weekend.

Family Activities Make It Fun For All Ages

At some Celtic festivals, you will find a range of family activities. Children can enjoy face-painting, parades, pony rides, and children’s entertainers.

Highland Games May Be Scheduled

If you’re a fan of Highland Games, such as the Caber Toss, you’ll be pleased to know that larger Celtic festivals often have their own version of the Highland Games, adding a little competitive spirit and athleticism to their festival. Watching traditional Highland Games is a fascinating glimpse into the past.

Now that you know a bit more about these festivals and how enjoyable they are, you may be wondering where you can attend one in the near future. Luckily, there is a great festival coming up in Austin, Texas.

Austin Celtic Fest – Austin, Texas

This popular Celtic festival will be held on Nov. 7th and 8th, 2009, in the vibrant, exciting city of Austin. Voted one of America’s most livable cities, Austin has so much to offer festival-goers.

You can enjoy the cities restaurants, museums, and landmarks when you aren’t busy enjoying everything the festival has to offer.

Fun activities like Celtic guitar workshops, live entertainment (featuring Scottish musician Brian McNeill), and storytelling and Highland Games are just a few of the attractions at this large, established festival.

Visit Texas this November and experience the 13th Austin Celtic Fest for yourself – it may become a yearly ritual you really look forward to!

This fall, a couple of amazing festivals are coming up in Canada and the United States. They feature lively song and dance, activities for people of all ages, and the hospitality and food and drink that Ireland is known for.

If you’ve never attended a real Irish festival, you are missing out. These wonderful events are designed to make socializing with people who share your heritage as pleasant as possible.

People come to these events in order to mingle and enjoy some traditional (and some very modern) entertainment.

Often, an Irish festival can be a great reason for a trip, but sometimes, you will be lucky enough to find one in your area. If you live in scenic Cape Breton, Nova Scotia (Canada), you will enjoy the great festival heading your way.

If you live in Pittsburgh, USA, you will also be lucky enough to enjoy an Irish get-together right in your home town.

If you don’t live close to an upcoming Irish festival, it’s well worth some travelling to experience one of these events – people who have attended Irish festivals in the past often schedule them in every year afterwards.

Even if your trip to Cape Breton or Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania is a one-time thing, you can treasure all the good memories you’ll come home with – photos, Celtic arts and crafts, and video of exemplary music and dance.

Festival Details For Fall

The first festival we’re going to look at is the Cape Breton Celtic Colours Festival, which will run from October 9-17, 2009.

This festival is a showcase for some amazing Celtic talent, and this year’s focus will feature a touching tribute to the late, great Cape Breton fiddler, Jerry Holland, who fought valiantly against cancer, but passed away.

In his honor, the Festival is holding a special tribute to him on October 17th, full of music that evokes his spirit and honors his talent and his commitment to the community.

Other activities at the festival include guided walks and bike tours of beautiful Cape Breton, pancake breakfasts, a chowder night, and a Celtic quilting workshop.

There is something for everyone at this unique festival. Try something new and visit the Celtic Colors event this year in Nova Scotia.

While enjoying a real Celtic festival, why not enter into the spirit of things by wearing some authentic Celtic jewelry to the event itself. You can choose a delicate Ribbon of Life pendant, which features a distinctive Trinity Knot (symbolizing The Holy Trinity).

This feminine choice is the perfect way to celebrate an upcoming event, and it will remain a favorite long after you return.

It’s also available in a variety of finishes, so you can find the look that is just right for you.

Now, let’s have a look at the great event coming up in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania this fall.

The Pittsburgh Irish Festival (at the Riverplex) is being held from September 11-13, 2009. Feature act, the Celtic Scythian, will thrill crowds on the main stage, along with many other brilliant artists who will display their artistry through Celtic dance and musical performances.

Fun nights at the Michael Collins Irish Whiskey Pub are just one way to meet new people and enjoy yourself. You can also attend workshops about almost anything Irish – from Irish dance to Irish dogs! Give this festival a try this year, you’ll be glad you did.

The special occasions that come around each year are a welcome break from the busy pace of everyday life. They provide us with a sense of joy and magic and give us something to look forward to.

Why not celebrate those special moments with a beautiful charm bracelet that features meaningful charms that mark special occasions?

The Tara’s Diary Charm Bracelet has everything you need to create an heirloom that serves as a visual retelling of your own personal life story.

Much like a scrapbook or photo album, the Tara’s Diary Charm Bracelet provides a beautiful sense of perspective and meaning.

It becomes so easy to remember and honor important moments when you only need to look down at your own wrist! It can also be a very special gift for your mother, sister, daughter or friend.

If you are considering a Tara’s Diary bracelet for yourself or a loved one, we can help you get started by showing you some charms that correspond beautifully with some special occasions.

Here are some lovely charms that will become a treasured part of your Tara’s Diary bracelet:

Charms By Special Occasions

For example, one excellent way to honor an engagement or marriage is the Tara’s Diary Square Bead “I Love You Charm”.

This pretty design combines the most romantic declaration of love with a classic Trinity Love Knot – a timeless symbol of devotion.

Celtic Trinity Knots are also known as triquetras – they are used to symbolize the Holy Trinity.

To honor the birth of a precious baby, the Kid’s Boot and Celtic Knot Charm will be perfect. A tenderly craft baby bootie represents the wonders of motherhood.

This would also make a lovely gift for Mother’s Day, or to celebrate a child’s birthday.

As you can see, much care is put into the tiny details that make this charm so appealing.

Engraved Trinity Knots decorate the charm’s surface, and the little shoe features a shining emerald, set into gold.

For Saint Patrick’s Day, nothing could be lovelier or more appropriate than the Shamrock and Spiral Charm, with its gleaming, deep-green emerald center.

The soft, curving lines of each of the Shamrock’s three leaves represents spiritual faith and love. Much like the Trinity Knot, the Shamrock was used (by Saint Patrick) to show the presence of God in the world all around us.

Adding even more intricacy and beauty to this signature piece is the strong, bold lines of the Celtic spirals carved into the charm itself.

These spirals are meant to represent the journey of body and soul through life, death, and spiritual rebirth.

These three charms are just a sample of all the wonders the Tara’s Diary Charm Bracelet offers to today’s woman.

Whether you choose to select a group of charms at one time, or add on special pieces to help you celebrate special occasions, you will be charmed and dazzled by all the hidden meanings and significance of the designs.

Take a few moments to browse our selection of charms and see how many different options there are. Whatever you choose, you can look forward to a fun and exciting journey into Celtic culture – and amazing jewelry design.

We’ve introduced a stunning new addition to our jewelry line – the Tara’s Diary Celtic charm bracelet.

The very first bracelet was created because our good friend Tara wished to use charms to represent her special memories. Each charm meant something to her and reminded her of happy times in her life.

Your charm bracelet can serve the same purpose. Special occasions and milestones can be marked with a charm that will always remind you of your own special moments in life.

We’re very proud of this new design, and we want to tell you more about the stunning and symbolic engravings you will find on the individual charms.

We’d also like to tell you how many ways there are to enjoy these exquisitely crafted pieces.

The beauty of the Tara’s Diary charms are their versatility. You can customize your charm bracelet to reflect your own tastes and your own favorite symbols from Celtic culture, art and history. By choosing as few or as many charms as you want, you can create a look that is uniquely you.

In fact, our new charms are so pretty and so individual, you may wish to add a few to your current Pandora’s Box bracelet. With one exception (the birthstone charm), all our charms are compatible with the Pandora’s Box design.

If you collect charms for this particular bracelet, our Tara’s Diary collection will allow you to show some Celtic spirit without investing in a brand new charm bracelet.

Imagine how great a Shamrock charm would look on your existing bracelet! You can honor your Irish or Celtic heritage without needing to start from scratch.

Designing your dream bracelet is easier than ever with our new collection of unique charms. Whether you choose the lovely Tara’s Diary bracelet for your base, or add to a Pandora bracelet you already own, you can be sure of the highest quality charms and the very best craftsmanship.

Here is a look at some of the best pieces for your Tara’s Diary or Pandora’s Box bracelet. All of the charms shown here will work for either design.

The I Love You Celtic Charm -

This romantic Trinity knot charm incorporates the tender words, “I Love You” with one of the most meaningful symbols of Celtic art and history. The triquetra, or Trinity Knot, is meant to illustrate the Father, the Son, and The Holy Spirit.

Delicate engraving on a sterling-silver box shape makes this charm a welcome addition to any Tara’s Diary or Pandora bracelet.

Kid’s Dancer Charm With Celtic Knot -

This pretty charm captures all the vibrant, energetic spirit of Celtic dancing. Many children of Celtic descent enjoy learning the traditional dances of their people.

For women of any age, this charm represents the lively music and beautiful steps that Celtic dance is known for. This dangling dancer hangs from a sterling silver charm decorated with Celtic knots.

The Shamrock Charm With Enamel -

The Shamrock is Ireland’s most recognizable symbol. Since the days of St. Patrick, who used the three-leaf plant to show the presence of the Holy Trinity in nature, the humble plant has become a symbol of Irish pride.

If you share this same pride about your own ancestry, this beautiful, enamelled Shamrock charm will be a great way to show the world how you feel about being Irish.

The feeling of being in love is so powerful and so comforting. Finding that one very special person who will share your journey through existence is a gift to treasure for always.

If you’ve found the woman you have always dreamed of finding, you may be planning to propose and honor your love with a lifetime commitment. A Celtic engagement ring can be an ideal way to show your love.

There is something mystical and magical about Celtic jewelry. It seems to resonate with meaning, due to the carefully crafted symbols it features.

Some symbols of Celtic culture are so ancient and profound, they remain sacred and revered thousands of years after their first appearance on ancient works of art and stone crosses.

Capturing the timeless beauty and depth of the Celtic people with a stunning engagement ring can be a powerful way to show you care. Your bride-to-be will appreciate the hidden meanings and spiritual significance of her ring.

If you are unfamiliar with the symbols of Celtic art and folklore, such as Irish Claddagh symbols and intricate interlace, you will enjoy learning about what they mean. By educating yourself, you can prepare for a proposal that is unforgettable!

Sharing the “story” of your ring with your partner will be an excellent way to propose. You can write a note (perhaps with a few lines of exquisite Irish poetry, such as The Wild Swans At Coole, by W.B. Yeats) that explains the symbols on her ring, or play pretty harp or fiddle music to set the stage for an amazing experience.

However you decide to propose, your Celtic engagement ring will dazzle her. Beautifully handcrafted by skilled artisans in the Emerald Isle, these works of art have an heirloom quality that makes them stand out.

In order to learn the “story” of her ring, you will need to learn about the symbols it offers. Here are just a couple of beautiful examples of the very best Celtic engagement rings for her. Once you’ve found one you love, you can read our quick guide to its meaning. Check our online jewelry store for many more variations on these styles.

14k Diamond Set Celtic Knot Ring -

This pretty ring features the very best in Celtic interlace. The expertly crafted Trinity Love Knots that flank the central, solitaire diamond add visual interest and dimension to the piece. The Trinity Love Knot is a fine example of Celtic knot work, and it carries significance that is uniquely appropriate for your wedding day.

Love Knots honor devotion and faith. Each of the three points of a traditional Celtic Trinity Knot represents the Holy Trinity – The Father, The Son, and The Holy Spirit. By choosing this design, you will offer your bride-to-be a centuries-old symbol of love and life everlasting.

14k Diamond Set Claddagh Engagement Ring -

This beautiful ring features beautifully embossed Claddagh symbols, alongside a trio of shimmering diamonds. Throughout history, couples have celebrated their love with traditional Claddagh Rings, which symbolize fidelity, romantic love, and undying loyalty.

Thrill the woman you love with this very individual design. The Claddagh symbols always depict two tiny hands, gently clasping a crowned heart.

Tags: Celtic, engagement, ring, jewelry, Irish, Claddagh, interlace, proposal, Emerald, Isle, Trinity, Love, Knots

One of the best things about being a parent is sharing your family’s traditions and heritage with the next generation.

Giving your child a gift of Celtic jewelry can be a touching way to make your family’s legacy come alive. There are great, affordable choices that will become favorites to any child.

A children’s Celtic Cross pendant is a wonderful way to introduce your child to Celtic symbolism.

The distinctive, ringed Celtic Cross is a symbol of faith. It makes a wonderful gift for a child who attends church or Sunday school. The four points of the Celtic Cross represent the four directions, and the central ring is a symbol of eternity.

Another great idea is a silver birthstone Claddagh ring. The Claddagh Ring is used as a token of affection. Giving someone a Claddagh Ring is a touching way to show you care.

Girls love birthstones, so any special little girl in your life will enjoy the color and beauty of a pretty gemstone which seems customized just for her.

Birthdays, graduations from elementary or secondary school, baptisms, and other special occasions can become great reasons to treat a child (of any age) to Celtic jewelry. These designs features handcrafted quality, and they are created and assayed (stamped) in Ireland itself.

The exquisite artistry of this type of jewelry lends it an heirloom quality. It will be passed down from generation to generation, in true Celtic spirit.

There are many choices, beyond the ring and pendant featured here. You can also opt for a charming, whimsical Shamrock pendant inlaid with sparkling diamonds.

This gift also has its roots in spiritual symbolism. Each leaf of the Shamrock is a symbol of The Father, The Son, and The Holy Spirit.

The Shamrock is uniquely Irish. Saint Patrick used it to help convert the Irish from the old, Pagan ways. He believed that the one true faith was Christianity, and he devoted his life to replacing Druidic rituals and beliefs with devotion to Jesus Christ.

Saint Patrick performed many selfless works in Ireland, building schools and churches that espoused his ideals and faith. For a child, Saint Patrick and his signature Shamrock set an excellent example.

Another meaningful gift choice for children would be Trinity Knot earrings with shining, deep-green emerald centers.

These earrings would be a great gift for an older child who is learning how to take care of her belongings and beginning to appreciate the finer things in life. These precious earrings are versatile enough to wear with jeans and a T-shirt, but they also go beautifully with dressier clothing.

If you know a girl who has just gotten her ears pierced, the gift of Celtic earrings would be a wonderful way to celebrate this very feminine rite of passage.

Trinity Knots are another way to honor the Holy Trinity, and they are one of the most enduring symbols in Celtic culture. The delicate knot work that is so connected with Celtic art and history first appeared during the sixth century, and it continues to intrigue and fascinate.

As you can see, many special gifts for children are available. If you want to give a gift with real meaning and individuality, consider giving your child jewelry they will treasure for a lifetime.

There are many ways to honor your beloved spouse on your anniversary.

If you share Irish ancestry, you should consider giving your wife or husband an anniversary gift and celebration that evokes the spirit of the Emerald Isle.

Adding a little magic and Irish fun to your anniversary will make the celebration more meaningful – for both of you!

There are always moments in life that become milestones and fond memories. Be sure you take the time to create a sense of romance and beauty on your wedding anniversary. Here is our list of ideas for injecting a little Irish spirit into your special day:

Scrap-booking – Making a scrapbook of all your days together can be one of the most moving gifts of all. Use an Irish theme for your own scrapbook to make it more original and meaningful.

Choose emerald green, white or pale gold for the scrapbook cover and then add contrasting appliques such as shamrocks, Celtic knot work, Irish Harps, and wild roses.

You don’t need to be a master artist – scrap-booking stores have a million little appliques you can browse through. Or you can make stencils and create your own.

In our computer age, handmade gifts that take time to prepare become rare and treasured symbols of true thoughtfulness. Use all your photos to make pretty montages, and add captions to each photo.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with glitter, special Celtic lettering, and perhaps some lovely words in the Irish language of yesteryear.

Irish poets like W.B. Yeats can also be quoted in your scrapbook for a romantic touch. Even Irish musicians like U2 have extremely romantic lyrics (All I Want Is You would be perfect for this project) you could write in your book.

Consider a Claddagh motif (the crowned heart, gently held by two tiny hands) for the front cover of your anniversary album. The Claddagh Ring is traditionally given as a symbol of love and affection.

Choosing a real Claddagh ring to go along with your scrapbook would be a lovely idea – they are popular with both men and women, and they come in a variety of styles. Some are embellished with diamonds or emeralds, and others are simple and classic.

Other Great Ideas

Many couples celebrate their wedding anniversaries in the summertime. Great weather makes it easy to take your celebration out of doors. Consider having an outdoor festival in your own backyard, surrounded by friends and family.

Decorate the patio or grassy area with torches, play upbeat Irish music on a stereo, and offer guests pub fare and great ales and beers from Ireland.

Pints of Guinness and helpings of Irish stew would be great choices for a nighttime barbecue. For dessert, ice cream topped with a shot of Bailey’s Irish cream will be delicious. You can open your gifts in front of the ones you love, and enjoy the great outdoors in a festival atmosphere.

For a lovely anniversary gift on your celebration night, offer your wife a pair of Celtic Trinity Knot Pearl Earrings. The Trinity Knot is an ancient symbol of The Father, The Son, and The Holy Spirit.

The vows you exchanged before God on your special day will be remembered and cherished as you let your guests know the significance of your wife’s present.

Tags: Irish, Claddagh, Ring, Wedding, Anniversary, Scrap-booking, Claddagh, Gift, Celtic, work, Trinity, Knot

Celtic conventions and festivals are becoming more popular because they provide a wonderful mixture of song, dance, traditional Irish food and drink, and most of all, great hospitality to all visitors.

The best conventions and festivals offer a fun, warm atmosphere that all generations can enjoy. Even children can get into the spirit of things at these gatherings, which often feature face-painting and other activities designed to entertain little ones.

Song and dance are often a primary focus of today’s conventions and festivals. The best Celtic musicians from The British Isles and America meet to play music from all genres.

At festivals, there are many examples of traditional Irish music, with its signature pipes, bodhrans, and fiddles. There are also many new bands that add rock, jazz and alternative elements to their music.

At most festivals and conventions, there is also a focus on crafts fashioned by Celtic artisans. The rich tradition of Celtic art and history comes alive in handmade Celtic jewelry designs, Aran sweaters, paintings, and ceramics.

Finding beautiful Celtic keepsakes at these meeting places can be a pleasant adventure. Look for symbols such as spirals, Celtic crosses, and interlace (knot work) as well as the Shamrock and Claddagh symbols that remain so popular today.

Consider finding some Celtic symbols to wear when you arrive to enjoy the festivities. A Shamrock pendant inlaid with tiny diamonds will be a fun addition to your outfit. A traditional gold Claddagh ring will also evoke the spirit of Ireland. These timeless Celtic jewelry choices will become favorites long after you return from the festival. Celtic jewelry designs are always a stunning addition to a jewelry wardrobe.

The warmth and friendly spirit of an evening spent at an Irish pub with good friends is a big part of most Celtic festivals and conventions. There will always be a pub or two where you can slip away and enjoy music and conversation amidst old and new friends. Sharing a pint of Guinness and sampling some traditional pub fare while chatting can be a very pleasant experience.

Everyone attends these gatherings in order to meet people of shared ancestry. In this sense, you will have something in common with everyone there. Expect to form some lasting friendships as you enjoy all of the featured activities.

Currently, some great Celtic conventions and festivals are being planned in America. Here is some information about summer festivals that feature the best Celtic music and hospitality:

Arizona Highland Celtic Festival - July 18 & 19, 2009 – This festival promises to be an awesome summer event! This year’s events will feature live concerts, whiskey tasting, and a Fun Run (or walk) called The Celtic Mile. Highland Games with traditional Scottish athletics will be performed, possibly to the accompaniment of bagpipes.

Children can enjoy some fun activities designed for them (the gooey Oatmeal Toss will be a favorite) while Mom and Dad enjoy the festival.

Fort Collins Irish Festival – June 20-21st, 2009 – This Colorado festival sounds like an amazing event! The Young Dubliners and The Elders will be headline musical acts on the main stage.

Held at Civic Center Park in historic Fort Collins, the festival will also feature activities such as a place where children can safely pet beautiful horses. Mulligan’s Pub will be a popular locale for pints of Guinness, and it will feature live musicians throughout the festivals.

The first 300 men who come through the doors on opening day will receive a souvenir pint glass from Guinness, the event’s main sponsor.

Tags: Arizona, Highland, Celtic, Festival, conventions, jewelry, designs, Fort, Collins, Irish, shamrock, pendant