70th birthday experience? - Rick Steves Travel Forum

Posted by Lola

Seattle, WA

16293 posts

Why not contact the Irish relatives and see if they can suggest a pub or other venue where you could host a traditional Irish Céilí, with music and maybe even dancing (you might need a caller for that).

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cèilidh

https://www.licencetoceilidh.co.uk/what-is-ceilidh/

Small children are an important part these events, and they are welcome at pubs. There are professional céilí planners/performers who will do it all for you if you like; I posted an example of one, but Google will find you others. Or the pub may know of local musicians and/or community dance groups who would be happy to come and perform at a smaller event.

I saw this going on in at least one pub when I was celebrating my own 50th In Ireland. The family did not make it a private event and close the pub to others, so my travel companion and I got pulled into the celebration to join the dancing. It was so much fun for us—-and I am sure for the honoree as well.

This would definitely be a special experience for your mother—and everyone else as well.