You may have even already had your shamrock tattoos and leprechaun hat on last year when the 2020 annual CelticFest Vancouver was cancelled at the last minute. CelticFest and St Patrick’s Day festivities worldwide were the first public events to be cancelled due to COVID-19. A year on, the CelticFest is back, virtually, and ready to pick up where they left off. From March 11-20 they’ve got programming for all ages featuring a day of events for kids and families on March 14 suitable for all ages and skill levels.
CelticFest Family Day highlights
Important Note: This Sunday is DayLight Saving Time so Spring your clocks forward one hour!
Irish Language 12 pm
Dia dhuit! means ‘Hello’ in Irish. Join Fiona Finn for an introduction to Irish Language. You’ll learn with news skills and Irish words including basic greetings, colours and numbers. A haon (1) a dó (2) a trí (3), let’s go!
Celtic Art 1 pm
Join award-winning Irish/Canadian artist, Deirdre Keohane for a colourful lesson in Celtic art. The class will walk children through the craft of drawing Celtic knotwork. Supplies will be suggested in advance.
Traditional Celtic Sing-along 2 pm
The Blackthorn Blossoms band, featuring Michael Viens and Rosie Carver, will host an interactive music lesson. Participants will learn the Irish classics including Molly Malone and Rattlin’ Bog, below. Prepare to dance and sing along with lyrics like:
On that tree there was a branch
A rare branch and a rattlin’ branch
The branch on the tree
And the tree in the hole
And the hole in the bog
And the bog down in the valley o
Storytelling 3 pm
To wind us down, Jess Murray, will share stories and fables to capture the imagination of all ages, beginning with some tales for the smaller ones using some props and costume and then moving on to stories for older children.
“Storytelling and song have been a part of our Irish culture since time immemorial. As we continue this tradition and pass it along to our children, we remain connected to our ancestors and place importance on building and maintaining our community.” – Jess Murray
Events are all free but require registration. They’ll also be available for playback after live recording. >> Sign up today!
