According to local legend, John Shields was given the honor of naming our City. The area’s surrounding hills and land made him nostalgic, reminding him of his birthplace of Dublin, Ireland. Even more than 200 years later, there is a strong connection between the two Dublins that are separated by 3,571 miles. Our visitors and residents alike have embraced our connection to Dublin, Ireland over the years – through the Dublin Irish Festival, our green fire hydrants, high school mascots (Irish, Shamrocks and Celtics), the St. Patrick’s Day Celebration and much more.
And recent research from the Dublin Convention & Visitors Bureau indicated that visitors expect and want more Irish experiences and product when they visit Dublin, Ohio. There are many opportunities to experience Irish product in Dublin that would make John Shields very happy.
There are three such shops that serve as great resources to enjoy Dublin without traveling to Ireland. At 1 Stop Bead Shop, 6347 Sawmill Rd., aspiring and experienced crafters alike can select from the shop’s section of Celtic-themed charms and beads to craft just the right piece, or take a class to learn how to make Irish-themed jewelry.
The Celtic Corner, located in the Gift Shop at the Dublin Arts Council, 7125 Riverside Dr., features a number of hand-crafted gifts and uniquely Dublin works created by local and regional artists. If you ever need to give a unique and thoughtful gift that represents Dublin, Ohio, this is a great resource.
Located in Historic Dublin, Ha’Penny Bridge Imports of Ireland, 75 S. High St., is any visitor’s one-stop shop for all things Irish, whether you’re looking for Avoca woolens, Irish lace baptismal gowns, claddagh rings, Belleek china or a jaunty new woolen cap. Ha’Penny Bridge Imports can also assist with your Irish-themed wedding with wedding bands, groomsmen’s and bridesmaids’ gifts, and even kilt rental.
To further enhance the visitor’s experience and need for more things Irish, the Bureau launched a new Irish Approved Business Program this past winter. The program promotes local establishments that currently offer Irish-inspired activities or merchandise. Each approved business is designated with a window decal to alert visitors that they may find an Irish experience or product at the store. You can find a list of Irish Approved Businesses and other Irish experiences at the Bureau’s website, www.IrishisanAttitude.com.
Scott Dring is a executive director of the Dublin Convention and Visitors Bureau and a contributing writer. Feedback welcome at laurand@cityscenemediagroup.com.
Dublin City Council supports the Irish Approved program through the City’s hotel/motel tax grant fund. Through these grants, City Council funds cultural arts, beautification projects, Historic Dublin improvements, activities that encourage visitors to Dublin and other projects that enhance Dublin. To learn more about hotel/motel tax grants, visit www.DublinOhioUSA.gov/taxgrant.
