There’s an old saying that says everyone is Irish on St. Patrick’s day…and while we all know that this really isn’t true, people do have the urge to get in on the fun and do some Irish things for this holiday! Some people go to a parade, others hit a bar for a pint and some impromptu Irish music, and still others pop in a CD or stream some Celtic music online. When it comes right down to it, there’s no “right” way to celebrate!
One fun thing to try is to check out a podcast that tips a hat to the culture in some way.
It can be a little overwhelming to try and navigate that journey on your own, however. To that end we’ve compiled a little list of podcasts that you can try out, along with a quick explanation of what they offer so you can pick the one(s) you might like best, based on your interests. This is by no means a comprehensive list! There are many, many others out there, but we thought we’d share a sampling of them here for you today.
These are not in a particular order, so feel free to check out whichever piques your curiosity, and…happy listening!
Irish and Celtic Music
If you aren’t already a subscriber to our free podcast…what are you waiting for? Sign up today for the Irish and Celtic Music Podcast. It’s a weekly, hour-long offering, and you’ll have plenty to listen to, as well as a free subscription to Celtic Music Magazine to boot. It’s a no-brainer!
Pub Songs & Stories
If your tastes run more along the pub music line, we have another option for you as well. Pub Songs & Stories podcast gives the best feel of a public house jam, along with a behind-the-scenes peek at the musicians themselves. Hear their stories. Find out what has inspired them to play and perform. It’s a lot of fun!
An Irishman Abroad
This popular podcast by Jarlath Regan is high quality and well worth a listen. An Irishman Abroad favors the long form interview format, and has literally hundreds of episodes to select from. Browse at will.
Celtic Myths and Legends
The title, Celtic Myths and Legends, tells you everything you need to know about this informative (and entertaining) podcast! From sea serpents, to demons, to battling giants, unpack this spectacular world—and learn a thing or two along the way.
Irish Music Stories
Irish Music Stories is helmed by Shannon Heaton, and it explores anything and everything—but always ties it in to Irish music. Touching stories, humor, and just about anything else is on the docket at this podcast, and it’s definitely worth a listen.
Dubland
Need a good chuckle? Try out Dubland, a humorous podcast designed to tickle your funny bone! Titles such as, “Too Many Tabs Open in My Brain”, and “Why Are People on the Northside Always Carrying Things” give a feel for the fun inside each episode.
Gaelic Song Stories
You’ll find everything from activism, to Scottish folklore, to a deep dive into Gaelic song literature on the Gaelic Song Stories podcast. The Glasgow-based Gaelic singer has a fresh approach, a lovely voice, and an interesting take on all things Celtic.
Folk on Foot
Check out the Folk on Foot podcast and you’ll be treated to stories that feature father/daughter folk music, folk tales, songwriting, ““`and even violin-making as each episode unfolds. The podcast also takes a closer look at how the landscape and surroundings influence each musician.
Irish History Podcast
Interested in the past, but not sure where to start? Start here. The Irish History Podcast offers hundreds of free podcasts on nearly every topic imaginable. From The Great Famine, to medieval life, to witches and witchcraft, there’s just so much to explore here!
Stories from the Sea: a celebration of seafood from Scotland
For the foodies out there! An in-depth look at Scotland’s seafood industry, Stories from the sea covers topics such as why chefs choose Scottish food for the menu, Scottish shellfish aquaculture, and sustainability. Fascinating.
Irish Stew
Nope—this one isn’t a food podcast! However, Irish Stew does bring a lot of different, and interesting elements together for a show with broad appeal. Billed as a podcast for the “Global Irish Nation”, it features authors, actors, business people, and so much more.
Erin’s Isle
Listen to Emmy award-winning journalist Erin Breen examine everything from windmills, to knitting, to death—it’s quite the range! Erin’s Isle isn’t afraid to delve into a topic that requires research and an in-depth look at Irish lifestyle and history.
Catherine L. Tully specializes in writing about the arts, lifestyle and travel. She is the Owner of 4dancers, a blog for those who love dance, and Editor for Freelance-Zone, an award-winning site for freelance writers. Catherine also reviews music for Irish & Celtic Music Magazine.
