 | If you are proud to be Irish, and truly enjoy all the music, culture and spirit of the Emerald Isle, why not reach out to other like-minded people by attending an Irish Festival? You can enjoy the food, drink and music that Ireland is renowned for, right in your own community. Or consider a road trip to a nearby festival: gather some friends and make a great weekend of it! |
Irish Festivals have gained popularity over the years: they bring together amazing musicians from many different genres of Irish music. They also bring together artisans who create beautiful Irish handcrafts and clothing. Often, an Irish festival will feature traditional Irish activities like dancing, singing, and storytelling, in an atmosphere that is friendly and warm, with great pub fare and ales to sample as you enjoy the entertainment.
The Irish are known for their laid-back, spontaneous style: you can take part in an Irish or Celtic festival and come away with fond memories and new friends, without spending a lot of money. Get in touch with your ancestry and honor your heritage at a festival! Here is a great festival that is scheduled for early November, in Austin, Texas:
Austin Celtic Festival:
Dates: November 1st and 2nd, 2008
Times: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., both Saturday and Sunday
Location: Fiesta Gardens on the shores of Ladybird Lake, Texas
The Austin Celtic Festival is the biggest gathering of Celts in central Texas. There is an amazing roster of events planned for both days of the festival. You can enjoy a whole range of Irish and Celtic music performances, traditional Scottish dancing, Irish guitar lessons, and even sheep herding demos! The festival is designed to appeal to all age groups, and you can bring your children or parents along: everyone will enjoy the diverse range of activities. This festival promises to be great fun, and includes a lot of wonderful Irish-Celtic vendors, who will sell jewelry, clothing, and decorative items for your home.
On Saturday only, you can enjoy some Highland Games, as kilted athletes perform Caber Tosses and other traditional games. You can also kick off the festival fun with a Halloween party on Oct. 31st, at the Fiddler’s Hearth Pub: buy your tickets early, as only 300 will be sold!
Some Fun Ways To Show Your Celtic Spirit At The Festival:
If you plan to attend the Austin Celtic Festival, or another Irish Celtic gathering, consider buying a special piece or Irish or Celtic jewelry that you can wear while you celebrate you heritage. You can select a traditional Irish Claddagh ring, or perhaps a diamond Shamrock pendant if your heritage is Irish. If you are of Scottish heritage, a ring or pendant featuring knot work such as Trinity Love Knots would be perfect! You can be sure your jewelry will be a conversation piece as you meet new people and find out more about the culture and history of the Celtic people.