SALEM SAMHAIN FESTIVAL

A great way to spend a Saturday, even if you don’t have a Celtic bone in your body. The enticing aromas of Celtic food, particularly cock-a-leeky and bubble and squeak soup, permeated the venue but sold out too quickly. It was truly first come, first served. Multiple vendors displayed their wares so if you were searching for a wee gift for Christmas you would have had a good selection. The jewelry was particularly outstanding and such a large selection of Celtic items wouldn’t be found in any store. Perhaps it could be found online but at the festival you could see and feel it. Talent galore was on display, and not just in the jewelry craft. Some of our members were performing, including Christina and Victoria White who demonstrated Irish step dancing, and Maldon and Phil Meehan who demonstrated sean nos dancing. Newest AICS member Mary Carey was also on stage with an Irish song and the young dancers from the Oregon Irish Dance Academy demonstrated how much they have learned, to the delight of parents and onlookers.

A dedicated group of AICS members worked our tables, led by Julie and Jim O’Connell pictured below. Julie cleverly made some delicious scones to attract browsers to our table – and it worked! As you can see in the background of the photo numerous AICS events were highlighted and enticed Comhaltas member Mary Carey, seated at the next table, to join. Early birds Jim and Julie were reinforced by Louise Martell and Mary Rose Kerg who stayed until the remains of the day were done. A truly enjoyable and informative day.