Saint Patrick’s Day is an Irish cultural and religious celebration. Originally a feast day in honour of Ireland’s patron saint, March 17th has evolved to become a worldwide celebration of Irish culture. With Saint Patrick’s Day approaching, we thought it would be interesting to examine the man behind today’s high-spirited festivities. For without Saint Patrick, March 17th would be like any other day!
Ireland
5 Beautiful Castle Stays in Ireland
When most people think of Ireland, they think of rolling green vistas, cozy Irish pubs and of course castles! Castles dot the Irish landscape, offering a window into Ireland’s past. Since the turn of the last century, many of these beautiful buildings have been converted into hotels. Irish Castle stays are wonderful way to immerse oneself in Ireland’s history. With a variety of options, who wouldn’t want to spend a night in a castle?
First Time Visitors Guide To Ireland
Ireland is home to Celtic music, castles, a rugged coastline and of course fairies. It is hard to disagree that this coastal country is one of the most picturesque countries in the world. There are many reasons that will draw you to the Emerald Isle. You may be exploring family connections, lovers of music, history buffs or outdoor enthusiasts. Needless to say there is something for everyone in Ireland.
Explore Dublin: 8 Things To See & Do
What Dublin it lacks in size it makes up for in reputation. Dublin is an eclectic mix of history, culture, and debauchery. With its’ rich history, Dublin is home to many historical artifacts, as well home to many of Ireland’s best restaurants, shopping and more pubs than you could visit in one week! If you are going to the Irish capital, these are our 8 top things to do and see in Dublin – there is something for everyone!
Celebrate Winter Solstice at Newgrange
Located in Ireland’s Boyne Valley, Newgrange is a neolithic passage tomb that was constructed to align with the rising sun of the winter solstice. Newgrange is a part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Brú na Bóinne. The Newgrange passage tomb is one of the earliest and greatest feats of solar alignment, built 1000 years before Stonehenge. It is a majestic site to celebrate the winter solstice in Ireland. It is a majestic site to celebrate the winter solstice in Ireland.
Irish Christmas Traditions
Family Christmas traditions are practices and customs that evolve over the years, they adapt with changing family, cultural and historical dynamics, and they adapt as families find themselves in new corners of the world and with new members. These traditions are ones that we have grown up with – Meaghan in Cape Breton and Peggy in Alberta. We also believe that these are Christmas traditions at the core of many holiday celebrations for families of Irish decent.
The Irish Exodus – Journey to the New World
Although Irish migration began in the 1700’s and has maintained a steady flow throughout the centuries, it was Great Irish Famine of the nineteenth century that triggered one of the greatest population displacements of modern times. In this second of our series on the Great Famine, we examine the perilous journey the Irish took to the New World. We hope this will provide a better understanding of the lives of your ancestors.
Most Haunted Places in Ireland
Ireland has a long and bloody history, that has left behind restless spirits and spine tingling tales. From old castles to battle fields and jails, these spots around Ireland hold many secrets and some unwanted guests… Tour with us what we believe are Ireland’s most haunted places this Halloween.
Ireland’s Great Famine
Although Irish migration began in the 1700’s and has maintained a steady flow throughout the centuries, it was Great Irish Famine of the nineteenth century that triggered one of the greatest population displacements of modern times. Most sought refuge across the Atlantic, landing on North American shores. This is the first of a new series, that we hope will provide a better understanding of the lives of your ancestors and will inform your future heritage travel.
The Wandering Gaels Project
The Wandering Gaels Project is the journey of two friends to explore their Celtic ancestry. Through travel, research and a little bit of fun – the girls welcome you along on their journey off-the-beaten-track to learn more about the places from where their families hail, and how the history, culture and tradition of these regions have shaped our communities today.
