Céilidh (pronounced kay-lee) is a Gaelic word that literally means "kitchen party." This spelling is Scottish; in Ireland it is often spelled céilí but pronounced the same. Though generally associated with music and dancing today, historically Céilidhs have featured stories, poems, and ballads as well as instrumental music. People would have a "party piece" ready to go for any Céilidh. The party piece might be a song to sing, a poem to recite, a story to tell from Celtic mythology or history, a fiddle tune, or anything else. Musicians might join in an impromptu jam session.

Celtic Fest will feature a Céilidh time after dinner. We invite you to prepare a party piece to share. Of course you don't have to, especially if you are reading this with a suffocating sense of dread. But I bet you'll enjoy other people's party pieces. And if you pluck up the courage to do one yourself, I'm thinkin' you'll have a good time.

Hear sounds from the 2010 Céilidh

Party Piece Ideas

• Tell a story, especially a Celtic story, though we won't be picky. Humorous stories and Irish or Scottish jokes are especially Céilidh-appropriate.
• Recite a poem, again we encourage a poem about Celtic lands and/or something funny. Remember, kids will be around.
• Sing a song. You can do it a cappella or bring music on either a CD or an MP3 player for playing through our entertainment system. Or contact GR for a couple of songs we'd like to have someone sing with GR accompanying on guitar. Again, we're especially keen on a Celtic song.
• Play a song. Bring your fiddle, flute, tin whistle, harp, bagpipes, guitar, dulcimer, concertina, or bodhrán (Celtic drum). Actually, don't bring your bodhrán. I have one I picked up in Ireland. Maybe I'll join in.
• Please no sermons, Amway presentations, or "I'd just like to say a few words..."

Party Piece Resources

You are welcome to use any of the resources below or come up with your own.
Email gr@gregorylane.com to call dibs on a piece.

More questions? See our Ceilidh FAQ.