Auld Lang Syne is a song which thrilled the soul of Robert Burns in the 1780s, and today has become an anthem sung the world over on New Year's Eve. It is sung all over the world, evoking a sense of belonging and fellowship, tinged with nostalgia.

It has long been a much-loved Scottish tradition to sing the song just before midnight. Everyone stands in a circle holding hands, then at the beginning of the final verse ('And there's a hand my trusty friend') they cross their arms across their bodies so that their left hand is holding the hand of the person on their right, and their right hand holds that of the person on their left. When the song ends, everyone rushes to the middle, still holding hands, and probably giggling.

Should auld acquaintance be forgot,

And never brought to mind?
Should auld acquaintance be forgot,
And auld lang syne.

Chorus:

For auld lang syne, my jo,
For auld lang syne,
We'll tak a cup o' kindness yet,
For auld lang syne

Wishing you and yours a very Happy New Year from The Celtic Society of the Monterey Bay!

FROM THE CELTIC SOCIETY
Watch this clip of Old Blind Dogs at the Celtic Society's recent 25-year anniversary extravaganza at the Kuumbwa late in 2017! More video exclusives to come!

And save the date for two major Celtic Society Presents concerts at the Kuumbwa: Väsen on Sunday, February 25th and Lunasa on Sunday, March 4th! [ more...]

More information about these shows on our website: www.celticsociety.org

FROM AROUND THE BAY

Long time Don Quixote's International Music Hall booking agent, Tom Miller, has moved to Michael's on Main in Soquel. According to Santa Cruz Good Times, "There will be two stages: A newer, seated listening room in the front that allows for 80 people, and another stage at the bar, where shows have always been, that can hold about 150." Spring remodeling is expected to allow for larger audiences. The Celtic Society has already gotten a foot in the door! Don't miss Open The Door For Three on Thursday, February 15th! [ more...]

At the same time, Don Quixote's has changed hands and is experiencing a rebirth as Flynn's Cabaret. Owner, Brad Barkan, will continue the musical tradition established by Tom Miller. Expect world-class musicianship and...exceptional dining options. Celtophiles, mark your calendar for Altan on Thursday, March 8th!

Get your tickets for these Bay Area traditional Robert Burns suppers:

Saturday, January 20, 2018

4:00 – 10:00

Scotts Valley - Loch Lomond Celtic Society - Burns Supper

The Kings Village Shopping Center.
www.facebook.com/events/2035319746700901/

Saturday, January 27, 2018

4:00 – 10:00

Mountain View - 24th Annual South Bay Scottish Society - Burns Supper Mountain View Masonic Lodge, 890 Church Street, Mountain View. www.facebook.com/events/603808426675806/

Make this the year that you join the dance! In association with Irish Culture Bay Area and the Comhaltas Ceoltoiri Eireann Cooley-Keegan Branch, San Francisco, join the vibrant Irish set dancing community at several Bay Area locations every week. On Facebook: www.facebook.com/irishdancebayarea/

On Meetup: www.meetup.com/irishdance/

JOIN THE SOCIETY

The Celtic Society depends on your membership to be able to attract world class musicianship. Individual and family memberships are available, starting at $20 per year. Two-year individual: $36 | One-year family: $30 | Two-year family: $50

Help us continue to bring world class musicians to the area by becoming a member. You can join online at www.celticsociety.org or print a form at the page and mail it to us with your check.

See you at one of our tremendous shows soon! Thank you for your support.