The Beaver Island Irish Heritage Group is thrilled to announce an exciting array of workshops as part of this year’s Féile.
These workshops are designed to immerse participants in the rich heritage, traditions, and spirit of Ireland through a variety of engaging educational and recreational activities.

IRISH SOCIAL DANCING WITH ANNE CONNAGHAN

Straight from the Irish island of Arranmore, Anne Connaghan will lead a captivating workshop on Irish social dancing. This workshop is perfect for dancers of all levels, from beginners to seasoned enthusiasts. Join Anne as she shares the joy and camaraderie of dances that have brought communities together for generations.

GAELIC FOOTBALL WITH JERRY EARLY

Dive into the excitement of one of Ireland’s most beloved sports with Jerry Early, also hailing from Arranmore. This hands-on workshop will introduce participants to the basics of Gaelic football, including its rules, techniques, and strategies.

IRISH MUMMERS WORKSHOP WITH JOHN FLANNAGAN

Explore the fascinating tradition of Irish mumming with John Flannagan, who hails from Co. Fermanagh with strong Arranmore connections. This workshop dives into the heritage of Irish mummers, known for their vibrant costumes, storytelling, and performance art.

ARRANMORE: THE REST OF THE STORY explores the powerful, often untold history of a resilient island and its people—from famine-era evictions and seasonal labor in Scotland to the bold migrations that connected Arranmore to places like Beaver Island and Chicago. This presentation reveals how Islanders survived hardship, preserved their culture through music and tradition, and adapted to change—from the “Tunnel Tigers” who worked abroad to today’s digital-age returnees. It’s a story of those who left, those who stayed, and the enduring spirit that ties them together.

GEOLOGY OF IRELAND WITH ENDA REILLY

Discover the natural beauty and geological history of Ireland in this workshop led by Enda Reilly, who brings a unique perspective from both Dublin and Michigan. Enda will share insights and unravel the mysteries of Ireland’s Rocks.

IRISH LANGUAGE & MUSIC WORKSHOP WITH CATROINA KENNEDY

Combine the magic of Ireland’s native language and traditional music in this special workshop led by fiddler Catroina Kennedy from Ireland. In the past year, Catroina has been involved in an exciting partnership between Cairdeas na bhFidileiri (Donegal) and TUNES Music Makers to teach online lessons to young fiddle players from Beaver Island.

SAINT BRIGID’S CROSS MAKING WORKSHOP WITH CINDY GILLESPIE CUSHMAN

Join Cindy Gillespie Cushman, from one of the historic Beaver Island Irish families, in making St Brigid’s Crosses. St. Brigid’s Crosses are woven from dried grasses and other natural material.