November 11, 2022
Jamison, PA
USA

Person to Contact:

Liam Guidry
1504 NW 3rd Avenue
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311-5550
Email Daltaí na Gaeilge

Every November people travel to the Greater Philadelphia area to learn and speak Irish at the Irish Language Immersion Weekend sponsored by Daltaí na Gaeilge (Students of the Irish Language). This program is one of the largest Immersion Weekends held in North America, and has always attracted a large group of attendees whose abilities range from “no Irish at all” to “native Irish speakers”. The atmosphere at the November Weekend is hardly that of somber, solitary students, with their noses buried in their books, slogging through rules of grammar. On the contrary, the prevailing mood is one of relaxation, friendliness and fun.

Morning and afternoon classes are taught by instructors from all walks of life, each bringing their own unique experiences to the classroom setting. Classes are available from beginner to advanced levels. Following the day classes, lectures are offered on various topics of Irish interest such as history, folklore and traditional music. There are also workshops in tin whistle, singing and céilí dancing which are open to all.

On Saturday afternoon Mass is offered (in Irish, of course) for those who wish to attend, which is followed by an evening of entertainment. The festivities begin with a ‘seisiún’ where many of the participants display their talents in music, recitation, poetry and singing. After the seisiún is a céilí featuring traditional Irish music and dancing.

One of the highlights of the céilí is the “Costume Competition”. Everyone is invited to wear a costume or mask, but participation is totally optional. It is all presented in good fun for the sake of the ‘craic’ (sport, good times). Prizes are awarded in several categories. Féach ar an alt Ros agus Dealg le Barra Ó Donnabháin.

The November Gaeltacht Weekend is best summarized as a thoroughly educational and enjoyable gathering of people with one common goal: The preservation and advancement of the Irish language and culture.

The 2024 November Immersion Weekend will be held November 8th to the 10th in Jamison, PA. The Official Announcement and Registration Form for this event will be posted in the Daltaí Shop 6 to 8 weeks before the scheduled date.

Bí linn! – Join us!