Going Green
Madison, Ind., events
to celebrate Gaelic traditions
Several local groups have planned St. Pat's events
(March 2015) –March will be filled with the happy mood of St. Patrick’s Day in Madison. Ind. A team of organizations have joined forces to spread the cheer to one and all. The festivities will be ongoing from March 10-15 and promise to offer something for everyone.
The fun begins with a showing of “The Matchmaker” during the Ohio Valley Celtic Society Movie Night, 7 p.m. on Tuesday, March 10, at the Red Bicycle Hall, 125 E. Main St. The cost is $5 per person and proceeds of the event will support the Madison Ulster Project, which works to create “lasting peace in Northern Ireland” by cultivating acceptance and positive relationships between future leaders of the Roman Catholic and Protestant faiths. Beverages and snacks will be available.
A more informative event is planned for March 11 and will take place at the Jefferson County Historical Society, 615 W. First St. The Celtic Symposium is an opportunity for individuals to learn how the Celtic way of life has influenced our local community.
Celtic Society member Steve Thomas says, “It is part of our job to inform people about our legacy.”
The program will include four or five speakers and light refreshments. In the past, subjects have included the origins of Celtic art and Gaelic genealogy. The doors open at 6 p.m. at which time light refreshments will be available. The program begins at 6:30 p.m. and is free to the public. However, donations to the Historical Society will be accepted. “It is a regionally important event,” adds Thomas.
An authentic cultural experience will be in full swing on March 13 during the City of Madison’s St. Patrick’s Party. Downtown Madison will be acknowledging its Irish heritage with an afternoon and evening of traditional food and entertainment. Partygoers will be given the opportunity to participate in Irish Roadbowling on a short, urban course followed by “A Taste of Ireland” food passport, which includes Irish dishes at various local restaurants.
Dancers, a leprechaun contest and more will keep all amused for the evening. The celebration will begin at 5 p.m. Tickets are available at the Lanier-Madison Visitor Center, Historic Madison Inc., and the Thomas Family Winery. Additional information can be obtained by calling (812) 265-2956.
Historic Madison Inc. will open the doors to the Shrewsbury-Windle House on March 15 for an Irish Tea. All are invited to sample an array of teas accompanied by customary refreshments from 2-5 p.m. There is no charge for this event, but donations will be accepted.
The Ohio Valley Celtic Society has been in place for a decade. Kevin Carlson has been a member since the group’s inception and says that they have seen an increase in interest over the years. “Madison is an important place for history and culture,” he adds.
Carlson continued, saying that the fun should not be confined to those with ties to the Gaelic heritage. “Anyone with an appreciation for Celtic traditions should join in.”