It’s beginning to look a lot like Irish Philly Christmas. Most of what’s happening is online—however, there are a couple of live performances. Don’t let a little cold weather stop ya. There’s also a very special online concert that you will not want to miss on Monday.
Here’s what’s what.
Friday, December 18
You can’t keep a good band down, pandemic or no.
Jamison Celtic Rock presents “Celtic Christmas Live” at Renault Winery Resort’s “Vintner Wonderland,” 72 North Bremen Avenue, Egg Harbor City, N.J., starting at 6 p.m. It’s all socially distanced in the winery garden. (With lots of fire pits.) Details here.
Starting at 6 p.m., singer Mary Courtney offers up a bunch of tunes via Facebook. Check it out here. Mary will be accepting tips by PayPal and Venmo.
Also at 6—this time live in in person— Neil Mac Thiarnáin will appear at New Deck Tavern, 3408 Sansom Street in University, for the last live show of the year. You’ll need to call for table reservations. Pretty sure they’ll accommodate you with invigorating hot drinks. And you can buy a gen-u-wine Guinness blankie.
Philly’s own John Byrne Band takes the virtual stage at 8 p.m. for a World Café Live House Concert. The concert is free, but donations will be gratefully accepted. Donations will be divided between the band and the World Café Live Year-End Homecoming Drive. (Contributions are tax-deductible.) Register here. View the concert here.
Monday, December 21
Many of Philly’s best musicians and bands will take to Facebook to support Sean Hughes and his family. Sean is a member and player for Young Irelands Football Club who was seriously injured in a workplace accident. (More about that here.) In the lineup: Wee Neil Mac Thiarnáin; Karen, John and Michael Boyce; Declan McLaughlin; Raymond Coleman; and Jamison Celtic Rock. It’s called “Songs for Sean,” and it starts at 6 p.m. Check it out here and keep Sean and his family in your prayers.That’s it for now. Until we see you again, stay safe.
