In this episode of the Savannah Irish podcast, host Tara Reese and guests Dr. Kelley Mondesire and Connor Dolan explore the lively Irish and Celtic festival scene in the American South.

The conversation dives into how cities like Nashville, Tennessee, and Savannah celebrate their Celtic heritage through music, dance, and community events. Additionally, the episode highlights the importance of networking, cross-promotion, and community reliance among festival organizers.

Insightful discussions reveal how these cultural celebrations help to honor heritage, educate the public, and bring together people with shared ancestral roots. Specific upcoming event dates in Nashville and Savannah are shared, with aspirations for future expansions highlighted.

THE SAVANNAH IRISH PODCAST IS PROUDLY BROUGHT TO YOU BY: THE IRISH PUB COMPANY

THE SAVANNAH IRISH PODCAST IS PROUDLY PRODUCED BY: DEE DANIELS MEDIA - STORYTELLING WITH A PURPOSE

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE VOICES & TOPICS IN THIS EPISODE:

Get details on the 2026 Savannah Irish Festival

Get tickets to the 2026 Savannah Irish Festival

Learn more about the Savannah Scottish Games

Learn more about the Irish Network Nashville

FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE:

00:00 Welcome to the Savannah Irish Podcast

00:32 Meet the Guests: Dr. Kelley and Connor Dolan

01:34 Elevator Pitches: Roles in Celtic Events

01:57 Connor Dolan on Nashville's Irish Network

03:08 Dr. Kelley on Irish and Scottish Heritage

04:10 Tara's Role and Savannah's Celtic Culture

04:50 The Importance of Celtic Festivals

05:29 Nashville's Growing Celtic Scene

17:32 Savannah's St. Patrick's Day and Community

21:51 Cultural Festivals and Traditions

22:58 Joining the Nashville Irish Community

24:21 Networking and Community Building

26:09 Expanding Irish Cultural Events

27:21 Challenges and Opportunities

29:44 Technical Difficulties and Resuming Discussion

34:20 Future Visions for Cultural Events

40:47 Event Dates and Final Remarks