If you are like me, you are probably pissed that this coronavirus has been screwing everything up. Kids are home from school, professional sports are being cancelled, and your 401(k) is making it look like you will have to work into your 90s. On top of that, your St. Paddy’s Day plans are probably over. Parades, concerts, parties and pub crawls are being cancelled everywhere. So you will probably be drinking that Guinness by yourself at home. This blows.
You are probably still looking for your Irish fix. Luckily, there is a great Irish event coming up on May 9th, where you can get all the Irish music, dancing, gifts, and craic you need: The Philadelphia Fleadh! A few days ago, CJ Mills, the organizer of the Fleadh, was nice enough to tell us a bit about himself and the event. But I thought I would tell you why you should join us there this year.
First of all, it is easy to get to. If you are like me, you probably know more about China than Northeast Philly. But for the past few years, they have been hosting the event at the Pennsylvania National Guard Armory right off the PA Turnpike. If it rains, and we have been there when it rains, they can move the entire event inside. That will prevent the rain from watering down your Guinness!
The Fleadh is also family friendly. If your kids aren’t into the music or vendors, they have a kids section as well, with plenty of bounce houses, face painting, and other crafty activities. Our kids always spend most of the day there – but don’t worry, you can still hear the music from there.
If you are worried about the cost – don’t be! This is probably the most affordable all day event I have ever been to. Parking is free, and kids 12 and under are free as well. You will probably want to try some of the food from the food truck and vendors. But if you are on a budget, or if your kid will only eat peanut butter sandwiches, you can bring in your own food and drinks (just not the alcohol kind).
No Irish event would be complete without some frosty beverages. They will sell some Guinness and other beers. Is Irish whiskey more your thing? Raise a glass of Pop’s McCann whiskey while you are there as well.
The best part of the event is the music. This year, they have 13 Irish bands playing on two different stages, and playing all day. You will hear plenty of the classic Irish tunes, Pogues and Dropkick Murphys covers, and even some awesome original stuff. CJ, the event’s founder, will be playing with Seamus & CJ. Most of the bands are local ones, such as The John Byrnes Band, Bogside Rogues, and the Paul Moore Band. But all of the bands are fantastic. Check out the whole list here.
It sucks that the coronavirus is costing us a St. Patrick’s Day this year. But don’t let it kill your Irish spirit. Join our family on May 9th. By then, we should all be able to toast to good health, listen to some great music, and find some great craic. Slainte!
