BHS helps Irish students honor their heritage and culture by supporting them on whatever activities they choose to pursue. Senior Tristan Taheny comes from Irish heritage. Not only was he raised in a cultured environment thanks to his parents, but he also competitively practices the art of Irish dancing.
“Irish dance is probably the main way I connect with my culture,” Taheny said. “Not only learning the history behind it, but also being able to perform it with others, it has really made me closer to Ireland.”
Lá Fhéile Bríde or Imbolc (Saint Brigid’s Day) is celebrated the first of February, and although it is less commonly known, it holds a meaningful story similarly to St. Patrick’s Day. It has origins in the ancient Celtic festival of Imbolc and festivals of new life and fertility. For many homes around Ireland on the eve of St. Brigid’s day (January 31st), one of the women in the family, representing Brigid and spring, would call to the front door. She would then knock, holding fresh green reeds in her arms. The family waiting in the darkened house inside, would open the door and welcome “Brigid” and the coming spring into the home, representing the changing of the season.
Although Irish culture is predominantly known for its traditions, they have a variety of unique cuisines. Originating in Ireland, The Ulster Fry is known for being served at pubs throughout the day. It consists of fried eggs, bacon, sausages and black pudding. If anybody is interested in traditional Irish desserts, try their apple cake, mildly spiced, with an inner core of thinly sliced tart apples, topped with a crumbly oat streusel and usually served as a St. Patrick’s Day breakfast.
With that, Taheny’s mom brought he and his family closer to their Irish legacy by cooking traditional meals and celebrating Irish holidays as a family.
Taheny is very grateful and proud of his heritage, making his everyday activities and personality molded by his historical culture.
“Being Irish has given me not only a deeper insight to a country I don’t live in, but it’s also given me a community,” Taheny said. “Having part of that identity has brought me into a community… and has like, had me grown closer with my descendants.”
On March 17, 2026, St. Patrick’s Day is going to be celebrated with a lot of energy and festive activities to honor the arrival of liberty of religion into Ireland. Irish culture has been celebrated in the United States, and there are many opportunities to cherish its costumes, traditions and expand your knowledge on Irish heritage.
