How Do You Make an Irish Sweater?

An Irish sweater is traditional attire that has been worn by generations of Irish men and women.  This knitted wool sweater is designed to keep you warm while standing the test of time.  A traditional Irish sweater (also referred to as a jumper) is not something you can pick up at a national chain store or find on sale for $19.99.  Traditional sweaters are heirloom pieces that can be handed down from mother to daughter or father to son.  They are something you invest in because the quality is so high that you will never find a replicate for sale at Macy's.  An Irish sweater is a fantastic gift because of the thought, time, and history that goes into making each one.

Here is what makes an Irish sweater so special:

• History.  A traditional Irish sweater is made today the same way it has been for hundreds of years.  Owning Irish wool sweaters is owning a piece of history.
• Fisherman.  Irish fishermen used to wear them to work and when going out to see.  Folklore suggests that they would wear a unique stitch pattern that identified them as being part of a certain family.  
• Symbolism.  The stitch patterns have symbolic meaning.  For example the honeycomb is a symbol of the hard working bee where the diamond is a wish for success and treasure.
• Hand Knit. When shopping for sweaters for women you will come across a variety of items that are usually made by a large machine, in mass quantity.  A hand knit Irish sweater is made with love.  It has been compared to owning the original artist painting, something they have labored over, rather than buying a print.  The hand knit wool sweaters at Irish Traditions are each one of a kind.  We order them up to eight months in advance, as the production takes much preparation and the skilled hands of a seasoned knitter.
• Hand Looming.  These sweaters are still amazing quality and take a skilled hand to set and guide the loom.  The are faster to produce and cost less than hand knit sweaters while still being higher quality that a typical wool sweater.  At Irish Traditions we carry both hand knit and hand loomed wool sweaters.

It is very difficult to find a hand knit, traditional, wool sweater because so few people still have this skill set.  As machines have replaced artists our society has lost some of its history.  At Irish Traditions we have been working with the same suppliers in Ireland for years and our relationship enables us to bring you traditional Irish sweaters that would be near impossible to find elsewhere.  We have sat with women as they practiced knitting, watched their craft first hand, and have to agree that the original artist painting is always the best.  If you see a wool sweater or blanket you like in our store make sure to purchase it that day.  Since each sweater is unique, and takes time to produce, we cannot guarantee that something you love can be reproduced.  We count ourselves fortunate to be able to bring you this little slice of history.

Planning Your Irish Family Reunion

Summer has arrived and now is the time to plan your Irish family reunion.  Bringing family together from across the country, or the world, is an important way to connect generations and teach people about their past.  Grandchildren can meet great aunts and great uncles to hear stories of when Grandpa used to cause trouble in school while cousins can meet each other for the first time.  By telling stories, learning about common experiences, and learning about the past, a family can become connected and relationships established.  Irish families are extremely proud of their heritage and where they have come from.  Use your Irish family reunion to teach the next generation about your family and what you stand for.

Here are our family reunion ideas for making your event special:

• Clothing.  Visit our shop to see a variety of uniquely Irish attire.  We have everything from hand knitted sweaters and scarves to Guinness clothing and football gear.  Whether you want something traditional to remind you of Ireland or something fun, Irish Traditions has what you are looking for.
• Kilt.  Encourage the men in the family to have fun displaying their Irish heritage.  A kilt is something that can be worn at the reunion and various special events throughout a man's life.  Whether worn for a wedding, party, or festival a kilt is meant to be worn throughout a life time.  For guys that aren't ready to make a purchase you can rent a kilt from one of our locations.
• Family Crest.  Unite the family by purchasing family crest items for everyone that attends.  If your family is large have them preregister so that we can order the exact quantity you need in advance.  You can purchase family crest lapel pins, key chains and more.  This is a great keepsake for those who attended the family reunion.
• Decor.  You can make your location look more Irish by using Guinness bottle openers and other party accessories.  We carry a good selection of party items in the store so stop by to check out the latest inventory.  We can always make an advance order for you to make sure you have enough items for everyone.
• Traditional Irish Food.  Nothing can bring back memories like the taste of delicious, traditional Irish food.  Bring a smile to Grandma's face by giving her a favorite packet of biscuits or candy.  We carry a variety of traditional Irish treats including everything you need to make a traditional Irish breakfast.  Your family will be so excited to indulge in traditional fare and the children will find new favorites

When planning your Irish family reunion try to get an idea of how many people may attend. An easy way to do this is to create a Facebook page and send out invitations that way.  Family members can invite each other which will help you to locate everyone that is online.  As they RSVP you can combine the online list with the one you have made by corresponding with other relatives.  Once you have a preliminary list stop by Irish Traditions and we can show you what items we have in stock, or can order, to make your reunion a memorable event.

Traditional Irish Food for Your Family

Food brings back memories of home, special events, and family.  Even the smell of a full Irish breakfast can ignite images of waking up to Grandma cooking or a house full of people on Christmas morning.  Those that aren't lucky enough to live near mom or Grandma can still enjoy traditional Irish food at home by purchasing items from our store.  We carry traditional Irish breakfast meats, chocolates, cookies, tea and products to make your Irish recipes.

Here are some of our favorite Irish foods:

• The Full Irish Breakfast. Ireland is well known for it's hearty breakfast, consisting of eggs, sausages, bacon (rashers), black and white pudding,  fried tomato, Batchelor's beans, fried potatoes and brown bread, all washed down with a good strong cup of tea.
• Dublin Coddle.  This sausage, bacon (rashers), onion, and potato stew is a delicious and filling meal.  You can use traditional Irish meats to give it a perfect flavor.
• Corned Beef and Cabbage.  This well recognized Irish-American take on the traditional Irish Bacon and Cabbage dish is frequently served at Irish pubs in the States and even other restaurants will feature it on St. Patrick's Day.  Slow cook the meat to get the right texture.
• Irish Soda Bread.  Irish Soda Bread should be crunchy on the outside and wonderfully soft on the inside.  This will be served at most pubs in Ireland and is a good accompaniment to any traditional meal. We carry both traditional Irish Brown Bread and White Soda Bread mixes.  Just add milk or water, knead and bake for a delicious fresh baked loaf of bread. 
• Irish Lamb or Beef Stew.  This meal can also be cooked in a slow cooker.  By combining your favorite meat and vegetables with traditional seasonings you can prepare this stew in the morning and have it cook all day while you're at work.  The house will smell delicious and dinner will be ready when you get home.
• Irish Shepard's Pie.  This traditional fare typically uses ground meat and vegetables with mashed potatoes in place of a pie crust on top.  You can find this at many Irish pubs in the area.  Our Shepard's Pie Mix makes this dish a snap.
• Tea and Biscuits. There is nothing the Irish love more than a good cup of hot tea at any time of day.  Add a few of your favorite biscuits (cookies) and it's a great afternoon pick me up.  Irish Traditions stocks Barry's Tea, loose or in tea bags, regular or decaf, and a variety of biscuits, plain or chocolate Digestives, Jaffa Cakes and more. 
• Guinness Cake.  There are several ways to make a Guinness cake, with or without chocolate.  This is a good recipe if you are ready to try this at home.

At Irish Traditions we carry a variety of traditional Irish meats, chocolates, snacks, and ingredients.  Since our food is fresh we don't ship it online.  The best way to get traditional Irish food is to visit the store and see what we have to offer. If you are looking for something in particular our staff will do our best to assist you.  Even busy professionals can enjoy traditional Irish food by picking something up on the way home from work.  We look forward to helping you make your favorite Irish dish.

Annapolis Irish Festival July 12th & 13th

We love the Annapolis Irish Festival!  This fun event is happening July 12th and 13th.  The festival itself is a few minutes outside of town in Crownsville at the Anne Arundle County Fairgrounds.  The festival has everything you need for summer fun, whether you are Irish or not.  The Annapolis Irish Festival has live music, workshops, exhibits, a children's area, and great food.  It is an Irish event you don't want to miss.

Here are some of the bands playing at this year's festival:

• Gaelic Storm.  They have a #1 Billboard World Album Chicken Boxer with empowering anthems and traditional ballads. They incorporate rock into their sound which gives them a crossover appeal.  With more than 1 million albums sold Gaelic Storm's music will be enjoyed by traditional Irish music lovers and first timers.
• Albannach.  This Scottish group produces exciting, up beat music with talented drummers and a piper.  They have a modern spin on traditional music that is sure to excite the crowd.
• Scythian.  This band has a punk rock sensibility with rousing and raucous Celtic and world music.  With classically trained fiddlers, rhythm guitar, accordion, and a jazz percussionist combine for an adrenaline pumping show.
• Dublin 5.  This group was formerly known as The Rovers and was established in 2006.  They produce a high octane show with fans from all ages and walks of life.  Local to Annapolis, they've established themselves as festival favorites nationwide.  Be sure to catch their show and you'll know why!
• Screaming Orphans.  These four sisters are from Donegal, Ireland and grew up playing backup to their mom's Irish band.  Playing since they were kids these ladies live and breath Irish music.  They are only musical orphans since mom is no longer their lead singer.
• Kilmaine Saints.  This pipe and drum band started playing Celtic music for beer.  They are equal parts Irish swagger, Scottish pride and whiskey.  
• Gothard Sisters.  If you love Irish music and dancing this is a show you don't want to miss.  They are champion Irish dancers that sing, play and dance together - winning competitions and wowing crowds across the world.
• Seamus Kennedy.  This Irish entertainer puts on a diverse show.  As a musician, singer, comedian and entertainer he is a lot of fun for the entire family.
• Crossing Celtic.  This is an Irish band with a country twist.  Fans of country music will love the pairing and find themselves tapping along.
• Brendan's Voyage.  A lively, classic performance keeps the audience clapping when Brendan's Voyage is on stage.  This band has been together since the 90's and has been wowing audiences ever since.
• The Rogues. This group has been capturing audiences since 1994 with well played pipes and driving percussion.  They have their own theater show and have performed throughout the world.

Live music is only one reason to come to the Annapolis Irish Music Festival.  Kids can have fun on a pony ride, playing in the large kids area, or getting their face painted.  Those interested in learning more about their Irish heritage can attend one of the workshops or visit one of the many vendors.  Irish Traditions will be at this year's festival and we encourage you to buy tickets now so you don't miss out on your favorite band.

When to Wear the Tartan and Highland Dress

A kilt or other tartan garment is something that can be worn on special occasions or events year round.  One person said, "Real Celtic men wear a kilt whenever they want to - as long as they have the legs for it."  The tartan or kilt is symbolic of Scottish heritage, and more recently Irish heritage, recognized throughout the world as a sign of Celtic pride.  In order to understand when to wear the tartan or highland dress it is important to first understand what it is.

History

A tartan is a specific design, or color pattern, that is typically the same when viewed from any direction.  Families or clans had specific patterns, that when worn, told other people what clan you belonged to.  Women of the village would take great pride in designing a particular pattern using material and colors from the area.  Men would in turn, proudly wear their tartan when going out to hunt.  Often a woman would incorporate any remaining fabric into a dress or shawl for herself.  In present day you can wear the tartan assigned to your clan or select from one of the many tartans designed for places, organizations or the military. 

Men and boys have been wearing kilts since the 16th century in the Scottish Highlands.  Since the 19th century it has been more widely associated with Celtic and Gaelic traditions.

When to Wear the Kilt:

• Formal Occasions. Many men will wear a kilt on their wedding day, formal balls in the place of a tuxedo, for their anniversary, or special parties such as a Burns' Supper.  If a woman is wearing a gown or dressy cocktail attire a man can wear his kilt.
• Highland Games.  The traditional Highland Games are a site to behold. Nothing is more manly than doing a caber toss in your clan's kilt.
• Sporting Events.  Going to an football game?  Why not wear your kilt and promote your Celtic heritage.
• Irish Festivals.  Events like the Annapolis Irish Festival bring people of Celtic roots together for lively music, fantastic food, and entertainment.  Wear your kilt and join the party.  
• Lacrosse.  Yes, many lacrosse players are now wearing kilts.  The modern version of a kilt is worn in many sports.
• Political Gatherings.  Kilts are a symbol of national pride and as such many people will wear them to political events as a statement of pride and encouragement for politicians to remember where they came from.
• Military.  Within the Irish, Scottish, and British military specific units will wear a kilt.  In the US kilts can be seen in military bands, including the Naval Acadamy's pipe and drum band. Specific tartans are available for the US Military.
• Dances.  Ditch the tuxedo or suit and opt for a kilt instead.  They are more fun and a great way to promote your heritage.  
• Saint Patrick's Day.  If you are going out on the town why not do it in style?  Celebrate Saint Patrick's Day by proudly wearing your kilt.

What many people don't know is that a kilt has accessories and can be customized throughout your life time.  Just because you already own a kilt doesn't mean you can't have fun changing the look or style.  Simply purchase a new belt, buckle, kilt pin, or sgian dubh to change the look.  If you are interested in wearing a kilt but not ready to purchase one you can rent it from Irish Traditions.  We rent and sell kilts so that you can be ready for any occasion.

In going with the old joke many men also find a kilt more comfortable.  After all... "Nothing is worn under the kilt Madam - it's all in perfect working order!"

Clothing for Your Irish Wedding

“And the honeycomb will taste sweeter coming from my hand …. “

There are few things more important in a person’s life, or more memorable, than the day that they get married. For many women it is the culmination of a life time of planning and dreaming. Making this day a spectacular event is something that all couples dream about. A Celtic wedding is one of those events that stays with you and brings the traditions of centuries into the magical first moments of a couple's life. From the vows that promise freedom and binding to the ornate symbols of the Celtic knots a traditional Celtic wedding is an affair to remember and it all starts with the clothes.

In Ireland brides traditionally wore a blue dress because, at the time, it represented purity.  Brides looking for something unique can always select a beautiful pale blue dress.  If you are looking to accentuate the dress of your dreams you can do so with a tartan shawl, rosette or sash, or a green wedding cloak.  Many brides will also braid their hair or wear a garland of flowers. Brides will also carry a magic hanky that symbolizes fertility and is used to make a christening bonnet for her first born child.

The maids of honor and other women in the Bridal party can wear a smaller version of the rosette or drape a sash, stole, or shawl in the same tartan as the bride or their own family's tartan. The colors lend a vibrancy and sense of an amazing married life to come.

A man who wants to get married in Celtic Tradition should consider wearing the full kilt as there are few things more magnificent or spectacular as having a wedding party of men dressed in the full regalia of a formal kilt. There are several pieces that go with full Celtic attire including: the tartan kilt, Prince Charlie Jacket and vest, fur and leather sporran, kilt socks, and flashes. Long laced shoes are typical though it is always advisable, Celtic wedding or not, to stay away from patent leather. Typically the outfit is completed with a tuxedo shirt and bow tie, though some men chose to wear a less formal Oxford style shirt. Either one is appropriate. 

A symbol of the clan has always played a prominent role in weddings and other momentous occasions. In a Celtic wedding the clan may be symbolized by the man using a clan badge or brooch to pin his fly plaid to his jacket. A fly plaid is a square of fabric kilted at one end and worn at the wedding by pinning it to the man’s jacket. 

The clothes and the spectacle of an Irish Wedding are certainly something to behold. Men dressed in tartan finery and women augmenting their beautiful clothes with the colors and history of the Islands makes a romantic addition to an already special day. Adding touches of Ireland, Scotland, or Wales in the form of brooches, tartan ribbons on the bridal bouquet, and incorporating some of the ceremonies that have been passed down through the ages can also help to make the wedding that much more Celtic. Step dancers, Irish music, and of course a little liquid courage for the men of the party (in beautiful Celtic flasks of course) are all things to consider adding as you prepare with something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, and a sixpence in your shoe.

Traditional Items for the Bride and Bridesmaids:

·         Brooches

·         Tartan Ribbons

·         Rosette or Drape Sash

·         Stole

·         Shawls

      These items are worn in the bride's colors

Traditional Items for the Groom or Groomsmen:

·         Tartan Kilt

·         Prince Charlie Jacket and Vest

·         Fur and Leather Sporran

·         Kilt Socks

At Irish Traditions we carry everything you need to make your Irish or Scottish wedding something to remember.  From clothing for the bride and groom to gifts and accessories come visit us to see how we can make your special day everything you have dreamed of.

Our Best Irish Gift Ideas

Gift giving is one of those age old traditions that is as challenging as it is sweet, often leaving people with re-gifts or things they simply never wanted. Anniversary gifts, wedding gifts, and birthday gifts require special attention, showing the person receiving the present that the gift giver put thought into it. Irish Traditions have created a wonderful array of gifts that, often times, can take some of the hard thought out of gift giving. At Irish Traditions we have a variety of gifts that will show your special someone just how much you care.

Here are some of my favorite Irish gifts:

Irish Jewelry. For that special someone in your life, regardless of how long you have been together – nothing tells a woman how much you love her like a handpicked piece of jewelry. With so many designs to choose from an Irish gift of jewelry can become personal. Whether the piece features the Celtic tree of life or is part of the myths and legends of the Emerald Isle, one of these enchanting pieces is sure to get a smile.  You can also purchase a modern day charm bracelet that can be customized and added to for any special occasion. 

Family crests are also an exceptionally personal gift. Creating a bond between the past and today these icons are symbols of unity and family from distant history books to modern day. Sharing a last name is something very relevant to many families, making giving someone a family crest a lovely idea. You can also include the story of the family’s history on a scribe.  For some, who may never have considered looking for their roots, a gift like this might spark a lifelong curiosity and lead to some amazing discoveries. 

Galway Crystal is a beautiful and thoughtful gift.  Weddings are the start of a family's life together and anniversaries are a celebration of that life. In either case gifts for the home are always appreciated. Galway crystal is some of the finest in the world and giving a couple something from this amazing collection will give them a gift they will use and cherish for years to come. Be it a Claddagh goblet or a Longford bell, crystal is sure to please.

Irish sweaters, or cardigans with Aran stitching, are stylish and they are warm, a perfect gift to open under the Christmas tree or when celebrating your anniversary. These long lasting cardigans will be cherished by the person you give it to for a very long time. At Irish Traditions we sell Irish sweaters that are made the way they used to be, hundreds of years ago.  Visit our shop and feel the difference between a hand knit or one made with a loom.  Our hand knit sweaters are one of a kind so if you find one you like buy it!

Regardless of the occasion, we carry some of the finest Irish gifts that will delight the heart and bring joy to those who get them. In an old cliché, there is something for everyone – all you have to do is stop by the store to see our latest merchandise.  Since so many of our products are one of a kind we recommend purchasing things you like right away.  Some of our merchandise has to be ordered months in advance and handcrafted items will often never be replicated.  Visit Irish Traditions today and let us help you pick out the perfect Irish gift for your loved one. 

First Communion

For a child raised in a Catholic home there is nothing quite as memorable as the First Holy Communion. It is a special day that in the faith commemorates the child’s first receiving of the body and blood of Christ. For the children themselves it can be a sacred, mystical and even tremendously fun event. Celtic traditions abound when it comes to the first Holy Communion which can help to make this special day even more spectacular.  

If your son, daughter, grandchild, or loved one is going to make their first communion it is important to make the day as special as possible.  This right of passage is something for the entire family to celebrate.  From finding the perfect outfit to locating the right gift at Irish Traditions we have what you need to make their first communion special.

White is the color of purity, chastity, and beauty so it is fitting that the outfits worn by children on their first communion are traditionally white. For a young girl there is a certain delight of wearing a frilly first communion dress, moreover one that is white and very bridal looking. The dress is very important because it is the child’s moment to shine. A little girl radiant in her white first communion dress is definitely a site to behold especially when some of the accessories are added. Take for example the first communion ankle socks which are also white and come with a lace trim that makes them just that much more feminine, or the white first communion Bolero to accent the dress and look a little more “grown up”. Add a gorgeous veil and white gloves to create picture perfect moments.

Boys also take great pride in the way they are dressed when making their first communion.  There are a number of ways to incorporate your son's Celtic heritage. Adding a special first communion tie is always a delightful idea or maybe a small piece of tartan to showcase the child’s Irish roots. Brooches can also be worn as well as carrying a special first communion rosary. Most boys make their first communion in a suit and in some parishes, white is also the preferred color for boys. In Scottish tradition boys typically wear a kilt and other Scottish attire for their First Holy Communion.

Gift giving for first communions is common practice. Popular gifts include things like a first communion set which comes with a Mass book, rosary, scapular, and other accessories like a cross pin. These are mementos which will help memorialize the event for the child every time they use these items. Another very popular, and useful, gift is a First Holy Communion Bible.Traditionally in pocket size, people have been known to pick Bibles with an Irish Shamrock charm to remind them of their heritage and St. Patrick's use of the shamrock to demonstrate the simple (three in one) meaning of the Holy Trinity - Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

After the formal ceremonies and the sacred parts of the ritual have been completed it is time for the family to gather, and celebrate their son or daughter coming into the joy of the sacrament. 

Family Crest and Your Heritage

Many of us associate our family name with our parents and Grandparents before them. Sometimes, however, the urge to know more about a family name and the family history ignites a search that can bring up delightful results. For the more historically inclined the search can often lead down a journey of clans, castles, intrigue and the green hills of Ireland.  The first stop on the search is often the family crest. 

The family crest is something that families of old took very seriously. They are a noble looking family representation that has spanned the generations.  It can be exciting to trace your family's heritage and find out that the family lineage includes someone like Hugh O’Neil, one of the first kings of Ireland. A crest is an excellent way to find a oneness with the ancient past. While the times have changed and we no longer live in an era of knights and horses there is still something distinctly satisfying about seeing your last name above a noble looking crest.

Crests were very symbolic in Ireland, as they were in Scotland and England as well. Some crests were used to identify men when they were on the battlefield, dressed in his suit of armor. Others were family crests that passed from one generation to the next father to son or mother to daughter – often as part of an inheritance. 

There are several arguments around the usage of the crest in the Dark and Middle Ages but here are the two that stand out:

• Military Crest.  The first argument is that the crest was a symbol used for military purposes. A rallying cry and a symbol of a ruler's might was displayed proudly above the castle and torn down when the castle fell. 
• Identifying Crest.  The other argument was that the crest was a sort of medieval trademark which was used for all purposes of identifying the goods, people, lands, and the military of a particular ruler or family. This more all-encompassing use of the crest would have helped a ruler to maintain a sense of order, and would have kept the people in his district under the watchful eye of what belonged to their leader. Flags and other national symbols have all evolved from the crest.

Regardless of their use in ancient times, family crests have become popular with families today and make for excellent gifts. A shield bearing the family crest can make an excellent gift to dad on Father’s day or Christmas. A scroll with the family crest and history can be given at family gatherings. Crests were a unifying symbol under the lords of the land, today they are a symbol of family and in that sense have come to serve the very purpose for which they were invented. Today families can take pride in seeing their name above the proud icons that symbolized the family's courage, lands, or other quirks which would be simply lost in the annals of history without the story of the crest to pass them on.

If you haven’t had a chance to look up your family, especially if you have Celtic heritage, I would encourage you to do it. Visit the shop and we can show you a variety of items with the family crest on them.