Thursday, rainy Thursday

We had our walk in the rain this morning where we were drenched in less than ten minutes. After that we came back and waited for janelle's friend Dani and her sister, Janet who lives in Dublin. We hopped into the car to drive to the spot where the ferries take folks to the Aran islands. Along the way we found an Irish artists village where we found craft supplies, silversmith, a weaver, basket maker and potter. We had a lot of fun, even in the rain, wandering from shop to shop. There was also a restaurant where we decided to have lunch. It was a great choice, delicious, hot soup and great company.

We did drive to the car park for the ferry but the rain was so bad at that time we decided there was no sense in getting out of the car because we wouldn't be able to see much. So back to the hotel we went to get ready for the grand reception with dinner and entertainment. There was a huge crowd, the food was delicious and the entertainment superb. Lots of traditional Irish music, instruments, singing and dancing. Now it's quite late and here I sit in the lobby. So I'll add a few pictures and head to bed. First day of the festival tomorrow and we need to be on the bus at 8 am.

This area of Ireland has a lot of Gaelic Speakers and all signs across the Republic of Ireland are required to be in Gaelic and English

Jumping ahead to the Gala Festival Opening Dinner - we were lead into dinner by a bag piper

The dining room - very festive

Back to our afternoon activities - the Craft Shops we visited with Dani and Jan

Desert at the Gala in the evening - the chocolate and sauce were meant to look like a quilt

The Craft Village - silversmith, scrapbook supplies, pottery, jewelry, basket making, weaving - lots of beautiful things.

Our lunch spot.  We did not partake, but the chef specialized in desserts - they looked delicious

Our entertainment at the Gala - Fiddler was a part of the Riverdance company.  The guitarist was the music director fore the tour.  They are a married couple who decided they were tired of touring and now have a show several nights a week at the hotel we were staying in.  They did a one hour version of their show for us at the Gala.  Lots of music, traditional Irish dancers (award winners) and vocalists.  Great show.

Reception prior to dinner