Greetings!
The holiday season is upon us! As we gather with friends and family to celebrate everything we hold dear, we can't help but contemplate memories of loved ones and times gone by. That is, when we're not busy cooking, cleaning, planning, traveling, decorating, fighting with the weather, shopping until we run out of money, attending weekly plays, parties and other activities AND debating endlessly with those same loved ones!
Every year the same chaos repeats, yet when we look back we tend to laugh and think fondly of the 12 hour battle with the string of lights, Great-Aunt Lily snoring through dinner and being one of thousands fighting for a silly trinket during Black Friday's blitz. So whatever lies ahead in the coming weeks, stay strong, remember to breathe and laugh it all off now...because today's confusion is often tomorrow's fondest memories.
Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours,
|
|
|
|
|
A Tale of Tattoo
A look at the long-lasting life of a Celtic Art
Tattoos are a great art of expression, used the world over for countless reasons. Some of the most popular designs are Celtic influenced, which has resulted in a large population of people unaware of their design's meaning. The original Celts who began  these traditions would probably be content with this, because the art form was used primarily for two reasons: preserving history and, surprisingly, PR!
The art of tattooing developed in many different cultures, all influencing each other over thousands of years. Early Celts were quick to adopt the skills of body painting, in an attempt to show their  ancestral pride and distance themselves from Christians during their ongoing wars. It was quite a unique way to declare independence! The Celts also had no written language, and so tattoos helped with communication. One view of a decorated body would instantly provide someone with knowledge of a person's loyalty and belief system (something that still holds true to this day).
Over the years, those of Celtic descent use tattoos as an excellent way to show heritage pride and give tribute to ancestors. With such a variety of designs and symbolism, personal expression is almost limitless. Tattoos truly are a great piece of our of our history.
Want to know more about the symbolism? Visit this website to learn more about both Celtic history and designs: www.tribal-celtic-tattoo.com/celtic-history.htm
Contributions by Mick Purcell
|
|
Considering New Tattoos?
Getting a new tattoo is easy: just visit your nearest parlor and paint away. FALSE!
 It's best to find someone who specializes in Celtic tattoos to ensure it's done right. Celtic designs tend to be the most intricate in the world, requiring someone with a steady hand over a lengthy amount of time. So in addition to searching for a parlor who uses safe and healthy practices, be sure to see previous work of your artist. Don't be afraid to request someone else or seek a different business until you find exactly what you want! |
 |
Holiday Shopping? Buy Celtic
Visit our STORE at NiagaraCeltic.com
Some of the greatest gifts you can give are connected to your family's heritage! Consider historical books, music, art, costumes or even a trip to Ireland or Scotland!  Ancestry.com has wonderful software, Family Tree Maker, if you're interested in learning about your personal heritage. Plus, many stores that sell Celtic wares are small businesses, so you'd also be helping their local economies.
Look for an ALL NEW section in our Resource Center for businesses, coming in 2012. Until then, you can visit our own store online and purchase wonderful Niagara Celtic gifts: jackets, cookbooks and T-Shirts. Wherever you go or whatever you plan, happy shopping! |
|
|
Coming in 2012: Highlanders on the Big Screen
Get ready for Princess Merida in Disney/ Pixar's BRAVE.
Niagara Celtic members are looking forward to the international exposure Celts are about to receive, compliments of one of the biggest entertainment studios in the world! This animated tale is filled with Celtic mythology and art, voices of Scottish actors (Kelly MacDonald, Billy Connolly, Kevin McKidd, Craig Ferguson, Robbie Coltrane, etc.) and, of course, the wonderful wit from Pixar's writers and animators. This is sure to be a great tool for teaching kids and adults alike about the magic and wonder of Scottish heritage!
|
Our Next Issue
Get ready for Hogmanay! Join us as we celebrate the great tradition of welcoming the new year, Scottish style!
|
|
Celtic Woman Concert
December 14th
at 8pm
Kleinhans Music Hall
Buffalo | |
A Christmas Celebration: The Symphony Tour showcases the pure angelic voices of Celtic Woman in a reverent yet dynamic live music experience accompanied by the stirring instrumentals of the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra!
|
John McDermott
Dec. 18th
8pm
Koerner Hall
Toronto, Ontario |
Join one of The Irish Tenors for a wonderful night of Irish and Christmas music! CLICK FOR TICKETS |
2012 Celtic Concert Series
| |
The Riviera Theatre and Niagara Celtic are teaming up to showcase some of the best in Celtic entertainment! Keep an eye out on our website and future newsletter for more information!
2/28- Gaelic Storm 3/4- The Irish Rovers 3/8- National Dance Company of Ireland |
|
|
|
|
|
|
