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Winterval in Waterford: European City of Christmas

By Irish America Staff

Winter 2024

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Waterford, once called the hidden gem of Ireland, is now a tourist destination known for its extravagant festivities. Its annual harvest festival in September attracted upwards of 40,000 visitors. The Samhain festival in October saw the City’s streets awash with a fusion of spooky, spectral, and fascinating events under the watchful eye of An Dearg Dua, a 2,000-year-old … [Read more...] about Winterval in Waterford: European City of Christmas

Experience the Mystical Summer Solstice in Ireland

IA Newsletter, June 15, 2024

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The summer solstice is the longest day of the year and its historical and mystical significance can be felt at Ireland’s ancient sites. One of the eight sacred days in Ireland’s Celtic tradition, the summer solstice, falling this year on June 20, is associated with fertility, nature, and new beginnings. It’s the perfect time to visit some of the island’s key archaeological … [Read more...] about Experience the Mystical Summer Solstice in Ireland

Return to Ireland

By Mary Pat Kelly
June / July 2010

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The kings of Ireland were not inaugurated in Christian churches as were other European monarchs. The chieftains stood on the high hills that enclosed the tombs of their tribal ancestors during the ceremonial rites that made them king. This image, given to us by Eamonn Kelly, Keeper of Irish Antiquities, National Museum of Ireland, resonated with our group. We were Irish … [Read more...] about Return to Ireland

Brigid 1500 Festival Celebrates Ireland’s Matron Saint

IA Newsletter January 6, 2023

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2024 marks 1,500 years since the passing of Ireland’s foremost female saint, Brigid 1500 will celebrate the extraordinary life of St Brigid. County Kildare, where St. Brigid spent most of her life and founded the Kildare Abbey in the 5th century and where she was buried after her death on February 1, will host Brigid 1500 to honor the life and work of Ireland's only female … [Read more...] about Brigid 1500 Festival Celebrates Ireland’s Matron Saint

Waterford Selected as European City of Christmas 2024

IA Newsletter, December 23, 2023

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It is time to start planning your holiday trip to Ireland in 2024. The International Jury of the European Capital and City of Christmas 2024 competition has unanimously voted to award the European City of Christmas 2024 title to Waterford City. The International Jury, chaired by Danuta Hübner, Member of the European Parliament, and comprised of Mr. Íñigo Méndez de Vigo, Mr. … [Read more...] about Waterford Selected as European City of Christmas 2024