We have an exceptionally busy week, some of it with a holiday flair.
Here’s how to get your week in gear. There’s plenty to choose from.
On Saturday, the John Byrne Band puts in an appearance at Puck in Doylestown, starting at 8 p.m. You can find Puck at 1 Printers Alley.
McDade-Cara School of Irish Dance hosts the Irish You a Merry Christmas Dance Spectacular Sunday, December 9, from 2 to 4 p.m., at Archbishop Carroll High School, 11 Matsonford Road in Radnor. Tickets are available at the door—it’s $10 for adults, $5 for children under 10.
Also Sunday:
- You can support Inis Nua Theatre Company by putting your trivia knowledge to the test. It’s the Big Fat Pub Quiz of the Year at Fergie’s Pub, down at 1214 Sansom Street in Philly. Runs from 2 to 4 p.m. The quiz is based on the popular British comedy show of the same name, drawing on events, fads and memorable moments from the past year. Pretty much no topic will be excluded, including politics, movies, sports, movies, notorious scandals and more. Guest panelists include Claris Park and Andre Criss. Music supplied by John Byrne.
- The Watson Brothers, co-authors of the new book, “Massacre at Duffy’s Cut,” will be signing books starting at 3 p.m. at the Commodore John Barry Arts & Cultural Center (the Irish Center), Carpenter and Emlen in the Mount Airy neighborhood of Philadelphia. Watch our interview.
On Friday, December 14, Lunasa—one of the finest and most creative Irish traditional bands—brings its Christmas from Ireland show to the Grand Opera House, 818 North Market Street, in Wilmington, Delaware. The band will perform with singer Ashley Davis. Details here:https://www.thegrandwilmington.org/productions/5689-lunasa The show starts at 8 p.m. Listen to our interview.
One other fun event that night:
- Take in the Notre Dame Ladies Gaelic Football Club Prohibition Night. The fun starts at 8 p.m. at J.D. McGillicuddy’s, 111 Cotton Street in Manayunk. Wear your best Roaring ‘20s outfit. Tickets are $40 in advance, $45 at the door. The price of admission includes domestic beer, wine and well drinks. Contact any member of the club for tickets.
On Saturday, December 15, join the Ugly Christmas Sweater Pub Crawl. You know what to wear to that one. Check into Tir na nOg Irish Bar & Grill at 1600 Arch Street in Center City at 7 p.m. Hosted by the Philadelphia Hurling and Camogie Club. Rules and pubs will be posted before the event, the club says. Details.
Looking ahead to Sunday, December 16, the Mayo Association of Philadelphia hosts its annual Christmas Mass, followed by a celebration—possibly featuring an appearance by Santa, they say. Hint, hint. Doors open at 2 p.m. An optional dinner will be available after Mass at an additional charge. Bring the kiddies!
Also Sunday:
- Lansdale Catholic High School and Ancient Order of Hibernians “Yellow Jack Donahue” Division 4 play host to a great documentary, “Remember the 27 Crusaders,” the story of the 27 Father Judge High School students who made the ultimate sacrifice in Vietnam. The film begins at 2 p.m. at the school, 700 Lansdale Avenue in Lansdale.
