Irish Festivities in Madison, Indiana, Mar. 10-15, 2015

Madison, Indiana Gazebo on the Ohio River riverfront. AroundIndy.com staff photo, (c) 2013, all rights reserved.

By Ann Mulligan
Visit Madison, Inc.

Madison pays homage to its Irish roots with a week-long series of events beginning March 10, 2015 when The Ohio Valley Celtic Society hosts a showing of “The Matchmaker” at the Red Bicycle Hall at 7 pm. This 1997 romantic comedy set in Ireland is for adults only. Beverages & snacks are available and proceeds support The Madison Ulster Project.

On Wednesday, March 11, a Celtic Symposium begins at 6pm with light refreshments at The Jefferson County Historical Society. This will be an evening of light-hearted, fun and educational topics of Celtic life and history. Topics will touch on the influences of Celtic Culture in our own community.

John Nyberg, Executive Director of The Jefferson County Historical Society is a featured speaker. He is currently researching a community of Irish weavers in the Canaan area in the early 1900s and will give an overview of the project. The Symposium is free to the public with donations accepted to benefit Jefferson County Historical Society.

The highlight of the celebration will be on Friday, March 13, beginning at 5 pm in Madison’s downtown. The Ohio Valley Celtic Society will be organizing Irish Road Bowling from 5-7pm. On this short urban course, participants roll cannonballs down the alley and the player with the fewest throws to travel the distance wins the contest.

Revelers will love A Taste of Ireland. For only $35, you’ll visit 9 of Madison’s favorite restaurants and bars for a traditional Irish dish or drink. You’ll try dishes like Dublin Coddle, Shepherd’s Pie, Guinness, Irish Coffee, and more. There are 2 seatings at 6pm and 6:45pm or diners can present their ticket at the participating establishments between 5pm and 9pm. Tickets are on sale now until March 12 at the Madison Visitors Center, 601 West First St. or by calling 812-265-2956.

Free trolley rides are available to make sure you don’t miss any of the action. You’ll enjoy Irish music and Irish step dancers or dress like a leprechaun and compete for a $50 Best Leprechaun prize.

Rounding out the celebration is an Irish Tea on Sunday, March 15 at the Shrewsbury-Windle House, 301 W. First Street, from 2-5pm. Enjoy a selection of Irish teas served with classic tea snacks at this beautiful historic property. This is open to the public at no charge but donations are accepted.

For more information or to purchase A Taste of Ireland tickets, contact Visit Madison at 800-559-2956.