In this episode of the Savannah Irish podcast, host Tara Reese and guests Dr. Kelley Mondesire and Connor Dolan explore the lively Irish and Celtic festival scene in the American South.
The conversation dives into how cities like Nashville, Tennessee, and Savannah celebrate their Celtic heritage through music, dance, and community events. Additionally, the episode highlights the importance of networking, cross-promotion, and community reliance among festival organizers.
Insightful discussions reveal how these cultural celebrations help to honor heritage, educate the public, and bring together people with shared ancestral roots. Specific upcoming event dates in Nashville and Savannah are shared, with aspirations for future expansions highlighted.
THE SAVANNAH IRISH PODCAST IS PROUDLY BROUGHT TO YOU BY: THE IRISH PUB COMPANY
THE SAVANNAH IRISH PODCAST IS PROUDLY PRODUCED BY: DEE DANIELS MEDIA - STORYTELLING WITH A PURPOSE
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE VOICES & TOPICS IN THIS EPISODE:
Get details on the 2026 Savannah Irish Festival
Get tickets to the 2026 Savannah Irish Festival
Learn more about the Savannah Scottish Games
Learn more about the Irish Network Nashville
FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 Welcome to the Savannah Irish Podcast
00:32 Meet the Guests: Dr. Kelley and Connor Dolan
01:34 Elevator Pitches: Roles in Celtic Events
01:57 Connor Dolan on Nashville's Irish Network
03:08 Dr. Kelley on Irish and Scottish Heritage
04:10 Tara's Role and Savannah's Celtic Culture
04:50 The Importance of Celtic Festivals
05:29 Nashville's Growing Celtic Scene
17:32 Savannah's St. Patrick's Day and Community
21:51 Cultural Festivals and Traditions
22:58 Joining the Nashville Irish Community
24:21 Networking and Community Building
26:09 Expanding Irish Cultural Events
27:21 Challenges and Opportunities
29:44 Technical Difficulties and Resuming Discussion
34:20 Future Visions for Cultural Events
40:47 Event Dates and Final Remarks
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