The Irish community is the second most prominent international ethnicity in the state of New Jersey, listed at over 865,000 people in March of 2022. It’s no surprise that traditional Irish dancing events have made their way across the pond and are a big deal for many folks residing in the region.
For anyone looking to witness the spectacle of this traditional dance form, there are many festivals, competitions, and events anyone can attend. Below, Debra Mercora of NJ gives an overview of Irish dance events in the area.
Irish Dancing: A Quick Overview
Irish dancing is a type of traditional Celtic dance that originated centuries ago in Ireland. The dance can be done individually, as in Step and Sean Nos Dancing or in groups of up to twenty dancers in the Set Dancing. In Ireland, dance is used for both social dancing and official performances and contests.
The dance is performed with precise footwork and a rigid upper body. Unlike other dancing disciplines, Irish dancers do not move their arms or hands, instead emphasizing the focus on the intricate footwork. The musicians play an intricate part in the dance festivities.
Wings: A Celtic Dance Celebration
The State Theatre of New Jersey routinely hosts Wings: A Celtic Dance Celebration, performed by the Dublin Irish Dance Company. This event features former World Champion dancers alongside a renowned ensemble of musical and vocal performers.
This lively and enlightening presentation depicts rich Celtic cultural themes in stunning dance and musical performances, complete with original music and choreography. The riveting and delightful performances are appropriate for audiences of all ages.
Spring Lake Irish Festival
Jam-packed with family-friendly events such as a petting zoo, face painting section, and live music, the Spring Lake Irish Festival also hosts the traditional Irish Soda Bread Contest. Irish dancing is on full display throughout the festival, which is held in the vibrant and beautiful downtown area of Spring Lake, NJ.
Sponsored by Spring Lake Irish Center, the festival brings hundreds of families to the Spring Lake area each year. It’s the perfect occasion to spend some time diving headfirst into Celtic tradition and culture, as well as enjoying some of the finest Guinness and oysters around.
Irish American Association of North West Jersey’s Annual Feis
A feis (plural: feiseanna) is a traditional Irish dancing competition held to showcase individual dancers’ skills and technical prowess. Some competitions are invite-only, while others allow competitors from all over the region to participate. Many feiseanna also feature a team competition where groups of dancers can show off their fancy footwork together.
The Irish American Association of North West Jersey (IAANWJ) holds an annual feis with events for children, adults, and seniors. Vendors from all over the state gather to sell their wares and food, creating an exciting and celebratory atmosphere that heightens the competitive spirit of the event.
Closing Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the joy, cultural pride, and celebration inherent in an Irish dance performance. Whether it be witnessing, indulging in, or practicing an Irish dance spectacle, there are various events throughout New Jersey in which this dance can be appreciated in its finest forms.
